diff options
Diffstat (limited to '39448.txt')
| -rw-r--r-- | 39448.txt | 15060 |
1 files changed, 15060 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/39448.txt b/39448.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..65116d6 --- /dev/null +++ b/39448.txt @@ -0,0 +1,15060 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Twelve Years of a Soldier's Life in India, by +W. S. R. Hodson + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license + + +Title: Twelve Years of a Soldier's Life in India + Being Extracts from the Letters of the Late Major W. S. R. Hodson, B. A. + +Author: W. S. R. Hodson + +Editor: George H. Hodson + +Release Date: April 14, 2012 [EBook #39448] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLDIER'S LIFE IN INDIA *** + + + + +Produced by Melissa McDaniel and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was +produced from images generously made available by The +Internet Archive) + + + + + + + +Transcriber's Note: + + Inconsistent hyphenation and spelling in the original document have + been preserved. Obvious typographical errors have been corrected. + + Italic text is denoted by _underscores_. + + + + + TWELVE YEARS + OF A + SOLDIER'S LIFE IN INDIA. + + + + + If a soldier, + Chase brave employments with a naked sword + Throughout the world. Fool not; for all may have, + If they dare try, a glorious life or grave. + + + + + TWELVE YEARS + OF A + SOLDIER'S LIFE IN INDIA: + + BEING EXTRACTS FROM THE LETTERS + OF THE LATE + MAJOR W. S. R. HODSON, B. A. + TRINITY COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE; + FIRST BENGAL EUROPEAN FUSILEERS, COMMANDANT OF HODSON'S HORSE. + + INCLUDING + + A PERSONAL NARRATIVE OF THE SIEGE OF DELHI + AND CAPTURE OF THE KING AND PRINCES. + + EDITED BY HIS BROTHER, + THE REV. GEORGE H. HODSON, M. A. + SENIOR FELLOW OF TRINITY COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE. + + FROM THE THIRD AND ENLARGED ENGLISH EDITION. + + BOSTON: + TICKNOR AND FIELDS. + + M DCCC LX. + + + + + RIVERSIDE, CAMBRIDGE: + STEREOTYPED AND PRINTED BY + H. O. HOUGHTON AND COMPANY. + + + + +[The following paper, by the author of "Tom Brown's School Days at +Rugby," appeared in "Fraser's Magazine:"--] + + +The heart of England has not, within the memory of living men, been so +deeply moved as by the Indian rebellion of 1857. It was a time of real +agony,--the waiting, week after week, for those scanty despatches, +which, when they came, and lay before us in the morning papers, with +huge capitals at the top of the column, we scarcely dared take up, we +could not read without a strong effort of the will. What it must have +been to those of us whose sisters, brothers, sons, were then in the +Northwest Provinces, they alone can tell; but of the rest we do +believe there was scarce a man who did not every now and then feel a +cold sinking of heart, a sense of shame at his inability to help, a +longing to make some sacrifice of money, ease, or what not, whereby to +lift, if it might be, a portion of the dead weight from off his own +soul. By degrees came the light. As the trial had been, so had been +the strength. The white squall was past; and though that great and +terrible deluge still heaved and tossed, we began to catch sight of +one and another brave ship riding it out. Our pulses beat quick and +our eyes dimmed as we heard and read how the little band of our +kindred had turned to bay, in tale after tale of heroic daring and +self-sacrificing and saintly endurance and martyrdom. The traces here +and there of weakness and indecision only brought out more clearly the +soundness and strength of the race which was on its trial; and from +amongst the thousands who were nobly doing their duty, one man after +another stood out and drew to himself the praise, the gratitude, and +the love of the whole nation. In all her long and stern history, +England can point to no nobler sons than these, the heroes of India in +1857. Thank God, many of them are left to us; but the contest was for +the life itself, the full price had to be paid, and one after another +the heroes paid it. Some fell, full of years and honors, whom the +mutiny found with names already famous; others in their glorious +mid-day strength; others fresh from England, in the first daring years +of early youth; of all ranks and professions,--generals, governors, +cadets, missionaries, civilians, private soldiers; but each heard the +call and obeyed it faithfully, loving not his own life; and we believe +that even in this hurrying, bewildering, forgetful age, England and +Englishmen will not let the name of one of them die. + +At any rate, there is little chance that the subject of this paper +will be forgotten by his countrymen, for not only has he carved out +with his sword a name for himself which knows few equals even in +Indian story, but he has left materials which have enabled his brother +to put together one of the best biographies in our language. + +_Twelve Years of a Soldier's Life in India_ is the history of the +career of Hodson of Hodson's Horse, the captor of the King of Delhi, +compiled from private letters written to different members of his +family. + +To the book itself, as a literary work, high praise may be awarded. +There are four pages only which we could wish omitted; we mean those +(from p. 432 to p. 436) which contain the extracts from newspapers. +Able leading article writers and special correspondents, who as soon +as the firing is over, bustle up to battle-fields where their +country's noblest are dying, and sit down to catch the tale of every +_claqueur_, and spin the whole into thrilling periods, doubtless have +their use, and their productions are highly valued,--or, at any rate, +are highly paid for,--by the British public. The extracts in question +are favorable specimens, on the whole, of such commodities. But Hodson +has no need of them, and they jar on one's soul at the end of such a +book. With this exception, the book is a model of its kind. There is +not a word too much of the letters; in fact, we long for more of them, +while confessing that no additional number could bring the man or his +career more livingly before us; and the editor has, with rare tact, +given us just what was needed of supplementary narrative, and no more, +and has shown himself a high-minded gentleman and Christian by his +forbearance in suppressing the names of the men who enviously and +wickedly persecuted his brother. In a charming little preface he +compares that brother to Fernando Perez, the hero of the later Spanish +ballads, and then seems to doubt whether affection may not have +biassed his judgment. We think we may reassure him on this point. The +career of the Indian Captain of Irregulars may fairly challenge +comparison with that of Fernando Perez or any other hero of romance, +and we may well apply to the Englishman, lying in the death chamber at +Lucknow, the poet's touching farewell to the peerless knight +Durandarte, stretched on the bloody sward at Roncesvalles,-- + + "Kind in manners, fair in favor, + Mild in temper, fierce in fight; + Warrior nobler, gentler, braver, + Never shall behold the light." + +But it is time for us to turn from the book to the man, and we think +our readers will thank us for giving them the best picture which our +space will allow of him and his work, as nearly as may be in his own +words; only begging them to bear in mind that these letters were +written in the strictest confidence to his nearest relations, and that +so far from wishing to make his own deeds known during his life, he +resolutely refused to allow his letters to be made public. + +William Stephen Raikes Hodson, third son of the Archdeacon of +Stafford, was born in March, 1821, and went, when fourteen years old, +to Rugby, where he stayed for more than four years, two of which were +spent in the sixth form under Arnold. At school he was a bright, +pleasant boy, fond of fun, and with abilities decidedly above the +average, but of no very marked distinction, except as a runner; in +which exercise, however, he was almost unequalled, and showed great +powers of endurance. None of his old schoolfellows have been surprised +to hear of his success as the head of the Intelligence Department of +an army, or of his marvellous marches and appearances in impossible +places as Captain of Irregular Horse. Such performances only carry us +back to first calling over, when we used to see him come in splashed +and hot, and to hear his cheery "Old fellow! I've been to Brinklow +since dinner." But, as a boy, he was not remarkable for physical +strength or courage, and none of us would have foretold that he would +become one of the most daring and successful swordsmen in the Indian +army. We only mention the fact, because it is of great importance that +the truth in this matter, which the lives of Hodson and others have +established, should be as widely acknowledged as possible. A man born +without any natural defect can, in this as in other respects, make his +own character; no man need be a coward who _will_ not be one; and a +high purpose steadfastly kept in view will, in the end, help a man to +the doing of nobler deeds of daring than any amount of natural +combativeness. + +From Rugby he went to Trinity, Cambridge, where he took his degree in +1844; but, fortunately for his country, and (let us own it, hard as it +is as yet to do so) for himself also, a constitutional tendency to +headache led him to choose the army rather than a learned profession. +After a short service in the Guernsey militia, which he entered to +escape superannuation, he got a cadetship, and embarked for India. Sir +William Napier, then Governor of Guernsey, gave him a letter to his +brother, Sir Charles, and himself wrote of him, "I think he will be an +acquisition to any service. His education, his ability, his zeal to +make himself acquainted with military matters, gave me the greatest +satisfaction during his service with the militia." His brother's +letter never was presented to Sir Charles Napier, as we infer from the +passage at p. 156, where it is mentioned again, "I didn't show him his +brother's letter," writes Hodson in 1850, "that he might judge for +himself first, and know me 'per se,' or rather 'per me.' I will, +however, if ever I see him again." He never saw Sir Charles again; but +what a glimpse of the man's character we get from these few lines. + +On the 13th of September, 1845, Hodson landed in India, and went up +country at once to Agra. Here he found the Hon. James Thomason, +Lieutenant-Governor of the Northwest Provinces, a family friend and +connection, with whom he stayed till November 2d, when he was +appointed to do duty with the 2d Grenadiers, and began his military +career as part of the escort of the Governor-General, who was on his +way to the Punjab. In that quarter a black cloud had gathered, which +it was high time should be looked after. + +Hodson, however, marches on, all unconscious, and his first letters +give no hint of coming battle, but contain a charmingly graphic +description of the life of an Indian army on march. Here, too, in the +very outset, we find that rare virtue of making the best of everything +peeping out, which so strongly characterized him. + + "It is a sudden change of temperature, truly,--from near + freezing at starting, to 90 deg. or 100 deg. at arriving. It _sounds + hot_, but a tent at 84 deg. is tolerably endurable, especially + if there is a breeze." + +At Umbala, he attends a grand muster of troops, and sees the +Irregulars for the first time. + + "The quiet-looking and English-dressed Hindoo troopers + strangely contrasted with the wild Irregulars in all the + fanciful _un_uniformity of their native costume: yet these + last are the men _I_ fancy for service." + +This was on the 2d of December. On Christmas-day he writes:-- + + "I have been in four general engagements of the most + formidable kind ever known in India. On the 10th, on our + usual quiet march we were surprised by being joined by an + additional regiment, and by an order for all non-soldiers to + return to Umbala." + +Then comes the description of forced marches, and battles which one +feels were won,--and that was all. The same story everywhere as to the +Sepoys; at Moodkee, + + "Our Sepoys could not be got to face the tremendous fire of + the Sikh artillery, and as usual, the more they quailed the + more the English officers exposed themselves in vain efforts + to bring them on.... At Ferozeshah on the evening of the + 21st, as we rushed towards the guns in the most dense dust + and smoke, and under an unprecedented fire of grape, our + Sepoys again gave way and broke. It was a fearful crisis, + but the bravery of the English regiments saved us. A ball + struck my leg below the knee, but happily spared the bone. I + was also knocked down twice,--once by a shell bursting so + close to me as to kill the men behind me, and once by the + explosion of a magazine. The wound in my leg is nothing, as + you may judge when I tell you that I was on foot or + horseback the whole of the two following days.... No efforts + could bring the Sepoys forward, or half the loss might have + been spared, had they rushed on with the bayonet.... Just as + we were going into action, I stumbled on poor Carey, whom + you may remember to have heard of at Price's at Rugby. On + going over the field on the 30th, I found the body actually + cut to pieces by the keen swords of the Sikhs, and but for + his clothes could not have recognized him. I had him carried + into camp for burial, poor fellow, extremely shocked at the + sudden termination of our renewed acquaintance.... I enjoyed + all, and entered into it with great zest, till we came to + actual blows, or rather, I am (_now_) half ashamed to say, + till the blows were over, and I saw the horrible scenes + which ensue on war. I have had quite enough of such sights + now, and hope it may not be my lot to be exposed to them + again.... We are resting comfortably in our tents, and had a + turkey for our Christmas dinner." (pp. 66, 67, 68, 69.) + +In the next letter the fight at Sobraon is described:-- + + "On we went as usual in the teeth of a dreadful fire of guns + and musketry, and after a desperate struggle we got within + their _triple_ and _quadruple_ intrenchments; and then their + day of reckoning came indeed. Driven from trench to trench, + and surrounded on all sides, they retired, fighting most + bravely, to the river, into which they were driven pellmell, + a tremendous fire of musketry pouring on them from our bank, + and the Horse Artillery finishing their destruction with + grape. I had the pleasure myself of spiking two guns which + were turned on us." + +A rough baptism of war, this, for a young soldier! No wonder that when +the excitement is over, for the moment he thinks he "has had enough of +such sights." But the poetry of battle has entered into him, witness +this glorious sketch of a deed done by the 80th Queen's +(Staffordshire). + + "I lay between them and my present regiment (1st E. B. + Fusiliers) on the night of the 21st of December, at + Ferozeshah, when Lord Hardinge called out '80th! that gun + must be silenced.' They jumped up, formed into line, and + advanced through the black darkness silently and firmly; + gradually we lost the sound of their tread, and anxiously + listened for the slightest intimation of their + progress;--all was still for five minutes, while they + gradually gained the front of the battery whose fire had + caused us so much loss. Suddenly we heard a dropping + fire,--a blaze of the Sikh cannon followed, then a thrilling + cheer from the 80th, accompanied by a rattling and murderous + volley as they sprang upon the battery and spiked the + monster gun. In a few more minutes they moved back quietly, + and lay down as before on the cold sand; but they had left + forty-five of their number and two captains to mark the + scene of their exploit by their graves." + +And so in another month, when the war is over and the army on its +return, he "catches himself wishing and asking for more." + + "Is it not marvellous, as if one had not had a surfeit of + killing? But the truth is _that_ is not the motive, but a + sort of undefined ambition.... I remember bursting into + tears in sheer rage in the midst of the fight at Sobraon at + seeing our soldiers lying killed and wounded." + +His first campaign is over, and he goes into cantonments. The chief +impression left on his mind is extreme disappointment with the state +of the Sepoy regiments, which he expresses to Mr. Thomason:-- + + "In discipline and subordination they seem to be lamentably + deficient, especially towards the native commissioned and + non-commissioned officers. On the march, I have found these + last give me more trouble than the men even. My brother + officers say that I see an unfavorable specimen in the 2d, + as regards discipline, owing to their frequent service of + late, and the number of recruits; but I fear the evil is + very wide-spread. It may no doubt be traced mainly to the + want of European officers. This, however, is an evil not + likely to be removed on any large scale. Meantime, unless + some vigorous and radical improvements take place, I think + our position will be very uncertain and even alarming in the + event of extended hostilities. You must really forgive my + speaking so plainly, and writing my own opinions so freely. + You encouraged me to do so when I was at Agra, if you + remember, and I value the privilege too highly as connected + with the greater one of receiving advice and counsel from + you, not to exercise it, even at the risk of your thinking + me presumptuous and hasty in my opinions." + +Acting upon these impressions, he applies for and obtains an exchange +into the 1st Bengal Europeans, in which he is eighth second-lieutenant +at the age of twenty-five, the junior in rank of boys of eighteen and +nineteen. He feels that he has difficult cards to play, but resolves +to make the best of everything, and regrets only "that the men who are +to support the name and power of England in Asia are sent out here at +an age when, neither by education nor reflection can they have learnt +all, or even a fraction of what those words mean. It would be a happy +thing for India and for themselves, if all came out here at a more +advanced age than now, but _one_ alone breaking through the custom in +that respect made and provided, must not expect to escape the usual +fate, or at least the usual annoyances, of innovators." + +At this point an opening, of which he was just the man to make the +most, occurs. Mr. Thomason writes to Colonel, afterwards Sir Henry, +Lawrence, the new political agent at Lahore, introducing Hodson; and +at once a friendship, founded on mutual appreciation, springs up +between the two, to end only with their lives. The agent manages to +have the young soldier constantly in his office, and to get all sorts +of work out of him. As a reward, he takes him on an expedition into +Cashmere, in the autumn of 1846, whither they accompany the forces of +Gholab Singh, to whom the country had been ceded by treaty. The +letters from Cashmere on this occasion, and again in 1850, when he +accompanied Sir Henry on a second trip to Cashmere and Thibet, are +like nothing in the world but an Arabian Night which we feel to be +true. The chiefs, the priests, the monasteries, the troops, the +glorious country so misused by man, the wretched people, an English +lady, young and pretty, travelling all alone in the wildest part on +pony-back, all pass before us in a series of living photographs. We +have room, however, for one quotation only:-- + + "The women are atrociously ugly, and screech like the + witches in _Macbeth_,--so much so, that when the agent asked + me to give them a rupee or two, I felt it my duty to refuse, + firmly but respectfully, on the ground that it would be + encouraging ugliness. + + "I am the luckiest dog unhung (he concludes) to have got + into Cashmere. I fancy I am the first officer of our army + who has been here save the few who have come officially." + +Colonel Lawrence was not the man to let his young friend's powers of +work rust, so on their return we find Hodson set to build the famous +Hill Asylum for white children at Subathoo. + +We may as well notice at once, in this early stage of his career, the +man's honest training of himself in all ways, great and small, to take +his place, and do his work in his world-battle; how he faces all +tasks, however unwonted, ill-paid, or humble, which seem to be +helpful; how he casts off all habits, however pleasant or harmless, +which may prove hindrances. And this he does with no parade or fine +sentiment, but simply, almost unconsciously, often with a sort of +apology which is humorously pathetic. For example, when set to work on +the Asylum, he writes:-- + + "Colonel Lawrence seems determined I shall have nothing to + stop me, for his invariable reply to every question is, 'Act + on your own judgment,' 'Do what you think right,' 'I give + you _carte blanche_ to act in my name, and draw on my + funds,' and so forth." + +Which confidence is worthily bestowed. Hodson sets to work, forgetting +all professional etiquette, and giving up society for the time. + + "Cutting trees down, getting lime burnt, bricks made, planks + sawn up, the ground got ready, and then watching the work + foot by foot; showing this "nigger" how to lay his bricks, + another the proper proportions of a beam, another the + construction of a door, and to the several artisans the + mysteries of a screw, a nail, a hinge. You cannot say to a + man, 'Make me a wall or a door,' but you must, with your own + hands, measure out his work, teach him to saw away here, to + plane there, or drive such a nail, or insinuate such a + suspicion of glue. And when it comes to be considered that + this is altogether new work to me, and has to be excuded by + cogitation on the spot, so as to give an answer to every + inquirer, you may understand the amount of personal exertion + and attention required for the work." + +Again, a few months later, November, 1847,-- + + "I am in a high queer-looking native house among the ruins + of this old stronghold of the Pathans, with orders 'to make + a good road from Lahore to the Sutlej, distance forty + miles,' in as brief a space as possible. On the + willing-to-be-generally-useful principle, this is all very + well, and one gets used to turning one's hand to everything, + but certainly (but for circumstances over which I had no + control) I always labored under the impression that I knew + nothing at all about the matter. However, Colonel Lawrence + walked into my room promiscuously one morning, and said, + 'Oh, Hodson, we have agreed that you must take in hand the + road to Ferozepore. You can start in a day or two;' and + _here I am_." + +Again, in January, 1848, he has been sent out surveying. + + "My present _role_ is to survey a part of the country lying + along the left bank of the Ravee and below the hills, and I + am daily and all day at work with compasses and chain, pen + and pencil, following streams, diving into valleys, + burrowing into hills, to complete my work. I need hardly + remark, that, having never attempted anything of the kind + hitherto, it is bothering at first." + +Again, in April, 1848, he has been set to hear all manner of cases, +civil, criminal, and revenue, in the Lahore Court. + + "The duty is of vast importance, and I sometimes feel a half + sensation of modesty at being set down to administer justice + in such matters so early, and without previous training. A + little practice, patience, and reflection, settle most cases + to one's satisfaction however; and one must be content with + substantial justice as distinguished from technical law." + +Again, in a letter to his brother,-- + + "Did I tell you, by-the-bye, that I abjured tobacco when I + left England, and that I have never been tempted by even a + night's _al fresco_ to resume the delusive habit? Nor have I + told you (because I despaired of your believing it) that I + have declined from the paths of virtue in respect of beer + also, these two years past, seldom or never tasting that + once idolized stimulant!" + +We have no space to comment; and can only hope that any gallant young +oarsman or cricketer bound for India who may read this, will have the +courage to follow Hodson's example, if he finds himself the better for +abstinence, notwithstanding the fascination of the drink itself, and +the cherished associations which twine round the pewter. My dear +boys, remember, as Hodson did, that if you are to get on well in India +it will be owing, physically speaking, to your digestions. + +These glimpses will enable the reader to picture to himself how +Hodson, now Assistant to the Resident at Lahore, as well as second in +command of the Guides, was spending his time between the first and the +final Sikh war. Let him throw in this description of the duties of +"The Guides":-- + + "The grand object of the corps is to train a body of men in + peace to be efficient in war; to be not only acquainted with + localities, roads, rivers, hills, ferries, and passes, but + have a good idea of the produce and supplies available in + any part of the country; to give _accurate_ information, not + running open-mouthed to say that 10,000 horsemen and a + thousand guns are coming, (in true native style,) but to + stop to see whether it may not really be only a common cart + and a few wild horsemen who are kicking up all the dust; to + call twenty-five by its right name, and not say _fifty_ for + short, as most natives do. This of course wants a great deal + of careful instruction and attention. Beyond this, the + officers should give a tolerably correct sketch and report + of any country through which they may pass, be _au fait_ at + routes and means of feeding troops, and above all (and here + you come close upon political duties) keep an eye on the + doings of the neighbors, and the state of the country, so as + to be able to give such information as may lead to any + outbreak being nipped in the bud." + +The reader will probably now be of opinion that the young lieutenant, +willing to make himself generally useful, and given to locomotion, +will be not unlikely to turn out a very tough nut for the Sikhs to +crack when they have quite made up their minds to risk another fight; +and that time is rapidly drawing near. All through the spring and +early summer months there are tumults and risings, which tell of a +wide conspiracy. Hodson, after a narrow escape of accompanying Agnew +to Mooltan, is scouring the country backwards and forwards, catching +rebels and picking up news. In September, the Sikhs openly join the +rebel Moolraj. General Whish is obliged to raise the siege of Mooltan; +the grand struggle between the cow-killers and cow-worshippers on the +banks of the Chenab has begun. + +We wish we had space to follow Hodson and his Guides through the +series of daring exploits by which the Doab was cleared, and which so +enraged the Sikhs that "party after party were sent to polish me off, +and at one time I couldn't stir about the country without having +bullets sent at my head from every bush and wall." He was attached to +Wheeler's brigade during the greater part of the struggle, but joined +the army of the Punjaub in time for the battle of Gujerat, which +finished the war, and at which he and Lumsden his commander, and Lake +of the Engineers, are mentioned in Lord Gough's despatch as most +active in conveying orders throughout the action. We cannot however +resist one story. The old Brigadier, making all haste to join the +grand army, where he expects to get a division, leaves two forts at +Kulallwala and 4000 unbeaten rebels in his rear. He is ordered back to +account for them, whereupon Brigadier turns sulky. Hodson urges him to +move on like lightning and crush them, but "he would not, and began to +make short marches, so I was compelled to outmanoeuvre him by a bold +stroke." Accordingly he starts with 100 of his Guides, when +twenty-five miles from Kulallwala, and fairly frightens a doubtful +sirdar, "preparing munitions of war, mounting guns, and looking +saucy," out of his fort. Whereupon the Sikhs abandon a neighboring +fort, and the road to Kulallwala is open without a shot fired. + + "In the morning I marched with my little party towards the + enemy, sending back a messenger to the Brigadier to say that + I was close to the place, and that if he did not come on + sharp they would run away or overwhelm me. He was dreadfully + angry, but came on like a good boy! When within a mile or so + of the fort, I halted my party to allow his column to get up + nearer, and as soon as I could see it, moved on quietly. The + _ruse_ told to perfection: thinking they had only 100 men + and myself to deal with, the Sikhs advanced in strength, + thirty to one, to meet me, with colors flying and drums + beating. Just then a breeze sprung up, the dust blew aside, + and the long line of horsemen coming on rapidly behind my + party burst upon their senses. They turned instantly, and + made for the fort; so, leaving my men to advance quietly + after them, I galloped up to the Brigadier, pointed out the + flying Sikhs, explained their position, and begged him to + charge them. He melted from his wrath, and told two + regiments of Irregulars to follow my guidance. On we went + at the gallop, cut in amongst the fugitives, and punished + them fearfully." + +"The Brigadier has grown quite active, and _very fond of me_ since +that day at Kulallwala, though he had the wit to see how brown I had +done him by making him march two marches in one." It is certainly to +the Brigadier's credit that he does seem to have appreciated his +provoking "Guide," for he mentions him in the highest terms in +despatch after despatch, and at the close of the war comforts him +thus: "Had your name been Hay or Ramsay, no honors, no appointments, +no distinctions would have been considered too great to mark the +services you have rendered to Government." + +The war ended, the Punjaub is annexed, and Hodson with it, who loses +all his appointments and returns to "the Guides." + +He feels sore of course at the loss of his occupation and position, +but sticks to his drill-sergeant's work now that there is nothing +higher to do, and pities from his heart the dozens of regimental +officers at Peshawur who have not an hour's work in two days. It is a +recently formed station, with a flying column of 10,000 men there for +the hot months, and no books or society; "people are pitched headlong +on to their own resources, and find them very hard falling indeed." + +The first Sikh war had opened Hodson's eyes as to the merits of the +Sepoys; the second makes him moralize much about the system of +promotion. + +He concludes that for war, especially in India, "your leaders must be +young to be effective," in which sentiment we heartily agree;--but how +to get them? "There are men of iron, like Napier and Radetzky, aged +men whom nothing affects; but they are just in sufficient numbers to +prove the rule by establishing exceptions." And would not the +following be ludicrous, but that men's lives are in the balance? + + "A brigadier of infantry, under whom I served during the + three most critical days of the late war, could not see his + regiment when I led his horse by the bridle until its nose + touched the bayonets; and even then he said faintly, 'Pray + which way are the men facing, Mr. Hodson?' This is no + exaggeration, I assure you. Can you wonder that our troops + have to recover by desperate fighting, and with heavy loss, + the advantages thrown away by the want of heads and eyes to + lead them? + + "A seniority service, like that of the Company, is all very + well for poor men; better still for fools, for they must + rise equally with wise men; but for maintaining the + discipline and efficiency of the army in time of peace, and + hurling it on the enemy in war, there never was a system + which carried so many evils on its front and face." + +His fast friend, Sir Henry Lawrence, again intervenes, and he is +appointed an Assistant Commissioner, leaving the Guides for a time. +In this capacity, in April, 1850, he comes across the new +Commander-in-Chief:-- + + "I have just spent three days in Sir Charles Napier's camp, + it being my duty to accompany him through such parts of the + civil district as he may have occasion to visit. He was most + kind and cordial; vastly amusing and interesting, and gave + me even a higher opinion of him than before. To be sure, his + language and mode of expressing himself savor more of the + last than of this century--of the camp than of the court; + but barring these eccentricities, he is a wonderful man; his + heart is as thoroughly in his work, and he takes as high a + tone in all that concerns it, as Arnold did in his; that is + to say, the highest the subject is capable of. I only trust + he will remain with us as long as his health lasts, and + endeavor to rouse the army from the state of slack + discipline into which it has fallen. On my parting with him + he said, 'Now, remember, Hodson, if there is any way in + which I can be of use to you, pray don't scruple to write to + me.'" + +After working in the Civil Service, chiefly in the Cis-Sutlej +Provinces, for nearly two years, under Mr. Edmonstone, he is promoted +to the command of the Guides on Lumsden's return to England. The wild +frontier district of Euzofzai is handed over to him, where + + "I am military as well as civil chief; and the natural taste + of the Euzofzai Pathans for broken heads, murder, and + violence, as well as their litigiousness about their lands, + keeps me very hard at work from day to day." + +Here he settles with his newly married wife, "the most fortunate man +in the service; and have I not a right to call myself the happiest +also, with such a wife and such a home?" + +For nearly three years he rules this province, building a large fort +for his regiment, fighting all marauders from the hills, training his +men in all ways, even to practising their own sports with them. + + "William is very clever" his wife writes "at this," cutting + an orange, placed on a bamboo, in two, at full speed, + "rarely failing. He is grievously overworked; still his + health is wonderfully good, and his spirits as wild as if he + were a boy again. He is never so well pleased as when he has + the baby in his arms." + +Yes, the baby,--for now comes in a little episode of home and family, +a gentle and bright gem in the rough setting of the soldier's life; +and the tender and loving father and husband stands before us as +vividly as the daring border-leader. + + "You would so delight in her baby tricks," he writes to his + father. "The young lady already begins to show a singularity + of taste--refusing to go to the arms of any native women, + and decidedly preferring the male population, some of whom + are distinguished by her special favor. Her own orderly, + save the mark, never tires of looking at her 'beautiful + white fingers,' nor she of twisting them into his black + beard,--an insult to an Oriental, which he bears with an + equanimity equal to his fondness for her. The cunning + fellows have begun to make use of her too, and when they + want anything, ask the favor in the name of Lilli Baba (they + cannot manage 'Olivia' at all). They know the spell is + potent." + +But for the particulars of life in the wilderness, we must refer our +readers to Mrs. Hodson's letters (pp. 197-200). This happiness was not +destined to last. In July, 1854, the child dies. + + "The deep agony of this bereavement I have no words to + describe," the father writes. "She had wound her little + being round our hearts to an extent which we neither of us + knew until we awoke from the brief dream of beauty, and + found ourselves childless." + +Another trial too is at hand. In the autumn of 1854, Sir H. Lawrence +is removed from the Punjaub, and in October, charges are trumped up +(there is no other word for it, looking to the result) against Hodson, +in both his civil and military capacity. A court of inquiry is +appointed; and _before_ that court has reported, he is suspended from +all civil and military duty. + +Into the details of the charges against him we will not enter, lest we +should be tempted into the use of hard words, which his brother has +nobly refrained from. All that need be stated is, that the sting lay +in the alleged confusion of his regimental accounts. The Court of +Inquiry appointed Major Taylor to examine these, and report on them. +This was in January, 1855; in February, 1856, Taylor presented an +elaborate report, wholly exculpating Hodson. Mr. Montgomery, (then +Commissioner for the Punjaub, now Chief Commissioner in Oude,) to whom +it was submitted, calls it the most satisfactory report he ever read, +and most triumphant. This report, however, though made public on the +spot, had not, even in May, 1857, been communicated to the Government +of India; whether suppressed on purpose, or not, there is no evidence. +But when at last fairly brought to their notice by a remonstrance from +the accused, the satisfactory nature of the document may be gathered +from the fact that the answer is, "his remonstrance will be placed on +record for preservation, not for justification, which it is fully +admitted was not required,--no higher testimonials were ever +produced." + +It is with the man himself that we are concerned. We have seen him in +action, and in prosperity; how will he face disgrace and disaster?-- + + "I must endeavor to face the wrong, the grievous, foul + wrong, with a constant and unshaken heart, and to endure + humiliation and disgrace with as much equanimity as I may; + and with the same soldierlike fortitude with which I ought + to face danger, suffering, and death in the path of duty.... + Our darling babe was taken from us on the day my public + misfortunes began, and death has robbed us of our father + before their end. The brain-pressure was almost too much for + me.... I strive to look the worst boldly in the face as I + would an enemy in the field, and to do my appointed work + resolutely and to the best of my ability, satisfied that + there is a reason for all; and that even irksome duties well + done bring their own reward, and that if not, still they are + duties.... + + "It is pleasant to find that not a man who knows me has any + belief that there has been anything wrong.... Not one of + them all (and, indeed, I believe I might include my worst + foes and accusers in the category) believes that I have + committed any more than errors of judgment." + +Thus he writes to brother and sister; and, for the rest, goes back +resolutely to his old regiment, and begins again the common routine of +a subaltern's duties, congratulating himself that the colonel wishes +to give him the adjutancy, in which post + + "I shall have the opportunity of learning a good deal of + work which will be useful to me, and of doing, I hope, a + good deal of good amongst the men. It will be the first step + up the ladder again, after tumbling to the bottom." + +The colonel gets him to take the office of quartermaster, however, not +the adjutancy, the former office "having fallen into great disorder;" +and in January, 1857, the honest old officer, of his own accord, +writes a letter to the Adjutant-General, requesting him to submit to +the Commander-in-Chief "that, his public record and acknowledgment of +the essential service Lieutenant Hodson has done the regiment at his +special request;" and urging on his Excellency to find some worthier +employment for the said lieutenant. In the same tone writes Brigadier +Johnstone, commanding at Umbala, through whom the colonel's letter had +to be forwarded; and who "trusts his Excellency will allow of his +submitting it in a more special and marked manner than by merely +countersigning; for," goes on the General, "Lieutenant Hodson has, +with patience, perseverance, and zeal, undertaken and carried out the +laborious minor duties of the regimental staff, as well as those of a +company; and with a diligence, method, and accuracy, such as the best +trained regimental officers have never surpassed." + +We sympathize entirely with the editor, when he bursts out, "I know +nothing in my brother's whole career more truly admirable, or showing +more real heroism, than his conduct at this period, while battling +with adverse fates." + +But there was now no need of letters from generals or colonels +(however acceptable such testimonies might be in themselves) to +restore Hodson to his proper position, for the mutterings of the great +eruption are already beginning to be heard, and the ground is heaving +under the feet of the English in India. + + "We are in a state of some anxiety, owing to the spread of a + very serious spirit of disaffection among the Sepoy army. It + is our great danger in India, and Lord Hardinge's prophecy, + that our biggest fight in India would be with our own army, + seems not unlikely to be realized, and that before long. + Native papers, education, and progress, are against keeping + 200,000 native mercenaries in hand." + +This is not the exact time a sane Commander-in-Chief, looking about +for helpful persons, should choose for letting a certain Lieutenant +Hodson, lately under a cloud, but, we hear, a smart officer, and of +great knowledge concerning, and influence with natives, out of our +reach. So thinks General Anson about the 5th of May, 1857, when +Hodson, out of all patience at finding that Taylor's report has never +reached the authorities at Calcutta, applies to him for leave to go to +Calcutta to clear himself. However, by this time the ill-used +lieutenant can afford to joke about his own misfortunes, and writes,-- + + "There were clearly three courses open to me, 'a la Sir + Robert Peel.' + + "1st. Suicide. + + "2d. To resign the service in disgust, and join the enemy. + + "3d. To make the Governor-General eat his words, and + apologize. + + "I chose the last. + + "The first was too melodramatic and foreign; the second + would have been a triumph to my foes in the Punjaub; + besides, the enemy might have been beaten! + + "I have determined, therefore, on a trip to Calcutta." + +Wherefore General Anson has interviews with this outrageous +lieutenant; is "most polite, even cordial," and "while approving of my +idea of going down to Calcutta, and thinking it plucky to undertake a +journey of two thousand five hundred miles in such weather," thinks "I +had better wait till I hear again from him, for he will himself write +to Lord Canning, and try to get justice done me." + +In six days from this time India is in a blaze. + +With the news of the outbreak come orders to the 1st European +Fusileers to move down to Umbala, on the route to Delhi. They march +the sixty miles in less than two days, but, on their arrival, find an +unsatisfactory state of things: + + "Here," writes Hodson, "alarm is the prevalent feeling, and + conciliation, of men with arms in their hands and in a state + of absolute rebellion, the order of the day. This system, if + pursued, is far more dangerous than anything the Sepoys can + do to us. I do trust the authorities will act with vigor, + else there is no knowing where the affair will end. Oh, for + Sir Charles now! The times are critical, but I have no fear + of aught save the alarm and indecision of our rulers." + +The Commander-in-Chief arrives, and now, to Hodson's most naive +astonishment, which breaks out in the comicalest way in his letters, +he regains all he has ever lost by one leap. + + "_May 17th._--Yesterday, I was sent for by the + Commander-in-Chief, and appointed Assistant + Quartermaster-General on his personal staff, to be under the + immediate orders of his Excellency, and with command to + raise one hundred horse and fifty foot, for service in the + Intelligence Department, and as personal escort. All this + was done, moreover, in a most complimentary way, and it is + quite in my line." + +We can see clearly enough, from our own point of view, what has been +at work for a lieutenant lately under a cloud. The plot thickens +apace. + +But who, at this juncture, will open the road to Meerut, from the +general in command of which place we want papers and intelligence? The +following extract from the letter of an officer stationed at that +place will, perhaps, explain:-- + + "When the mutiny broke out, our communications were + completely cut off. One night, on outlying picket at Meerut, + this subject being discussed, I said, 'Hodson is at Umbala, + I know; and I'll bet he will force his way through, and open + communications with the Commander-in-Chief and ourselves.' + At about three that night I heard my advanced sentries + firing. I rode off to see what was the matter, and they told + me that a party of the enemy's cavalry had approached their + post. When day broke, in galloped Hodson. He had left + Kurnal (seventy-six miles off) at nine the night before, + with one led horse and an escort of Sikh cavalry, and, as I + had anticipated, here he was with despatches for Wilson. How + I quizzed him for approaching an armed post at night without + knowing the parole. Hodson rode straight to Wilson, had his + interview, a bath, breakfast, and two hours' sleep, and then + rode back the seventy-six miles, and had to fight his way + for about thirty miles of the distance." + +The pace pleased the general, Hodson supposes, for "he ordered me to +raise a corps of Irregular Horse, and appointed me Commandant," but +"still no tidings from the hills," (where his wife is;) "this is a +terrible additional pull upon one's nerves at a time like this, and is +a phase of war I never calculated on." + +On the 27th of May the march towards Delhi begins, and Hodson +accompanies, acting as Assistant Quartermaster-General attached to the +Commander-in-Chief, "with free access to him at any time, and to other +people in authority, which gives me power for good. The Intelligence +Department is mine exclusively, and I have for this line Sir Henry's +old friend, the one-eyed Moulvie, Rujub Alee, so I shall get the best +news in the country." He starts, too, happy about his wife from whom +he has heard; the hill stations all safe, and likely to remain so. + +General Anson dies of cholera, and General Barnard succeeds; still, +oddly enough, no change takes place in our lieutenant's appointments. +And so the little army marches, all too slowly, as the lieutenant +thinks and remonstrates, upon Delhi. Other men are answering to the +pressure of the times:-- + + "Colonel T. Seaton and the other officers have gone to + Rohtuck with the 60th Native Infantry, who, I have no doubt, + will desert to a man as soon as they get there. It is very + plucky of him and the other officers to go; and very hard of + the authorities to send them; a half-hearted measure, and + very discreditable, in my opinion, to all concerned; + affording a painful contrast to Sir John Lawrence's bold and + decided conduct in this crisis. This regiment (1st + Fusileers) is a credit to any army, and the fellows are in + as high spirits and heart, and as plucky and free from + croaking as possible, and really do good to the whole force. + + "Alfred Light doing his work manfully and well.... + Montgomery has come out very, very strong indeed; but many + are beginning to knock up already, and this is but the + beginning of this work, I fear; and before this business + ends, we who are, thank God, still young and strong, shall + alone be left in camp; all the elderly gentlemen will sink + under the fatigue and exposure." + +_June 5th._--Head-quarters arrive at Aleepore, nearly at the end of +our march, in fact one may say at the end, for on that day I rode +right up to the Delhi parade-ground to reconnoitre, and the few sowars +whom I met galloped away like mad at the sight of one white face. "Had +I had a hundred Guides with me I would have gone up to the very +walls;" and on June the 8th we occupy our position before Delhi, +having driven the enemy out of their position; not without loss, for +Colonel Chester is killed, Alfred Light (who won the admiration of +all) wounded.... No one else of the staff party killed or wounded; +but our general returns will, I fear, tell a sad tale. I am mercifully +unhurt, and write this line in pencil on the top of a drum to assure +you thereof. + + * * * * * + +We must break the narrative here for a moment, now that we have got +the combatants face to face, in the place of decision, to submit to +our readers our own conviction that this same siege of Delhi, +beginning on June 9th and ending triumphantly on September 22d, 1857, +is _the_ feat of arms of which England has most cause to be proud. +From Cressy to Sebastopol it has never been equalled. A mere handful +of Englishmen, for half the time numbering less than three thousand, +sat down in the open field, in the worst days of an Indian summer, +without regular communications, (for the daks were only got carried by +bribery, stage by stage,) without proper artillery, and last and worst +of all, without able leading, before and took a city larger than +Glasgow, garrisoned by an army trained by Englishmen, and numbering at +first 20,000, in another ten days 37,000, and at last 75,000 men, +supplied with all but exhaustless munitions of war, and in the midst +of a nation in arms. "I venture to aver," writes Hodson, "that no +other nation in the world would have remained here, or have avoided +defeat, had they attempted to do so." We agree with him; and we do +trust that the nation will come to look at the siege of Delhi in the +right light, and properly to acknowledge and reward the few who remain +of that band of heroes who saved British India. + +Our readers must also remember that we are not giving the story of the +siege, but the story of Hodson's part therein, and must therefore not +think we are unduly putting him forward to the depreciation of other +as glorious names. We would that we had the same means of following +the life day by day of Nicholson and Chamberlain, Tombs and Light, +Welchman, Showers, Home, Salkeld, or a hundred others equally gallant. +But what we have is Hodson's life compiled from his daily letters to +his wife. No doubt the work of the regulars was as important, perhaps +even more trying, than that of the Captain of Irregular Cavalry, +Assistant Quartermaster-General, and head of the Intelligence +Department; but these were his duties, and not the others', and we +shall now see how he fulfilled them. + +On the first day of the siege "the Guides" march into camp: + + "It would have done your heart good to see the welcome they + gave me--cheering and shouting and crowding round me like + frantic creatures. They seized my bridle, dress, hands, and + feet, and literally threw themselves down before the horse + with the tears streaming down their faces. Many officers who + were present hardly knew what to make of it, and thought the + creatures were mobbing me; and so they were--but for joy, + not for mischief." + +"Burrah Serai-wallah," they shouted, ("great in battle" in the vulgar +tongue,) making the staff and others open their eyes, who do not much +believe, for their part, in the power of any Englishman really to +attach to himself any native rascals. + +Next day, June 10th, the ball opens. The mutineers march out in force +and attack our position: + + "I had command of all the troops on our right, the gallant + Guides among the rest. They followed me, with a cheer for + their old commander, and behaved with their usual pluck, and + finally we drove the enemy in with loss.... Indeed, I did + _not_ expose myself unnecessarily; for having to direct the + movements of three or four regiments, I could not be in the + front as much as I wished." + +But wives will be anxious, my lieutenant, and making all just +allowances, it must be confessed that you give her fair cause: + + "The warmth of the reception again given me by the Guides + was quite affecting, and has produced a great sensation in + camp, and had a good effect on our native troops, insomuch + that they are more willing to obey their European officers + when they see their own countrymen's enthusiasm. + + "My position is Assistant Quartermaster-General on the + Commander-in-Chief's personal staff. I am responsible for + the Intelligence Department, and in the field, or when + anything is going on for directing the movements of the + troops in action, under the immediate orders of the + general." + +Again, on June 12th, we are at it:-- + + "A sharp fight for four hours, ending as usual. They have + never yet been so punished as to-day. The Guides behaved + admirably, so did the Fusileers as usual. I am vexed much at + the _Lahore Chronicle butter_, and wish people would leave + me alone in the newspapers. The best butter I get is the + deference and respect I meet with from all whose respect I + care for, and the affectionate enthusiasm of the Guides, + which increases instead of lessening." + +But this daily repulsing attacks cannot be allowed to go on: cannot we +have something to say to attacking them? So the general thinks, and +sets Greathed, assisted by me and two more engineers, to submit a plan +for taking Delhi. + + "We drew up our scheme and gave it to the general, who + highly approved, and will, I trust, carry it out; but how + times must be changed, when four subalterns are called upon + to suggest a means of carrying out so vitally important an + enterprise as this, one on which the safety of the empire + depends!" + +Simple but "perfectly feasible" plan of four subalterns: blow open +gates with powder, and go in with bayonet, and that there may be no +mistake about it, I volunteer to lead the assault (wholly unmindful of +that assurance given to a loving heart in the hills that I am _not_ +exposing myself) and fix on a small building in front of the gate as +the rendezvous, which is now called "Hodson's Mosque." + +General approves, and orders assault for the morning of June 13th. +Alas for our "perfectly feasible" plan! + + "We were to have taken Delhi by assault last night, but a + 'mistake of orders' (?) as to the right time of bringing the + troops to the rendezvous prevented its execution. I am much + annoyed and disappointed at our plan not having been carried + out, because I am confident it would have been successful. + The rebels were cowed, and perfectly ignorant of any + intention of so bold a stroke on our part as an assault; the + surprise would have done everything." + +Next day there is another fight. A council of war. Our plan is still +approved, but put off from day to day. Abandoned at last, we are to +wait for reinforcements. Poor "feasible plan!" + + "It was frustrated the first night by the fears and absolute + disobedience of orders of ----, the man who first lost + Delhi, and has now by folly prevented its being recaptured. + The general has twice since wished and even ordered it, but + has always been thwarted by some one or other; latterly by + that old woman ----, who has come here for nothing + apparently but as an obstacle; ---- is also a crying evil to + us. The general knows this and wants to get rid of him, but + has not the nerve to supersede him. The whole state of + affairs here is bad to a degree." + +And here I am (June 19th), with fights going on every day, knocked +down with bronchitis and inflammation of the chest, "really very ill +for some hours." "The general nurses me as if I were his son. I woke +in the night and found the kind old man by my bedside covering me +carefully up from the draught." But on June 20th (bronchitis +notwithstanding) I am up and at work again, for the Sepoys have +attacked our rear to-day, and though beaten as usual, Colonel Becher +(Quartermaster-General) is shot through right arm, and Daly +(commanding Guides) hit through the shoulder. So the whole work of the +Quartermaster-General's office is on me, and the general begs me as a +personal favor to take command of Guides in addition. I at first +refused, but the general was most urgent, putting it on the ground +that the service was at stake, and none was so fit, &c. &c. I do feel +that we are bound to do our best just now to put things on a proper +footing; and after consulting Seaton and Norman, I accepted the +command. How ---- will gnash his teeth to see me leading my dear old +Guides again in the field. + +And so we fight on, literally day by day, for now "our artillery +officers themselves say they are outmatched by these rascals in +accuracy and rapidity of fire; and as they have unlimited supplies of +guns, &c., they are quite beyond us in many respects. We are, in point +of fact, reduced to merely holding our own ground till we get more +men." Still we don't feel at all like giving in. + + "The wounded generally are doing well, poor fellows, + considering the heat, dirt, and want of any bed but the dry + ground. Their pluck is wonderful, and it is not in the field + alone that you see what an English soldier is made of. One + poor fellow who was smoking his pipe and laughing with the + comrade by his side, was asked, what was the matter with + him, and he answered in a lively voice, 'Oh, not much, Sir, + only a little knock on the back; I shall be up and at the + rascals again in a day or two.' He had been shot in the + spine, and all his lower limbs were paralyzed. He died next + day. Colonel Welchman is about again; too soon, I fear, but + there is no keeping the brave old man quiet. Poor Peter + Brown is very badly wounded, but he is cheerful, and bears + up bravely. Jacob has 'come out' wonderfully. He is cool, + active, and bold, keeps his wits about him under fire, and + does altogether well. We are fortunate in having him with + the force. Good field-officers are very scarce indeed; I do + not wonder at people at a distance bewailing the delay in + the taking of Delhi. No one not on the spot can appreciate + the difficulties in the way, or the painful truth, that + those difficulties increase upon us." + +I am rather out of sorts still myself, also. It is a burden to me to +stand or walk, and the excessive heat makes it difficult for me to +recover from that sharp attack of illness. "The doctors urge me to go +away for a little, to get strength--as if I could leave just now, or +as if I would if I could." ... So I am in the saddle all day, (June +24th,) though obliged occasionally to rest a bit where I can find +shelter, and one halt is by Alfred Light. + + "It does me good to see the 'Light of the ball-room' working + away at his guns, begrimed with dust and heat, ever cheery + and cool, though dead beat from fatigue and exposure. How + our men fought to-day; liquid fire was no name for the + fervent heat; but nothing less than a knock-down blow from + sun, sword, or bullet, stops a British soldier." + +My glorious old regiment! how they have suffered in this short three +weeks; Colonel Welchman badly hit in the arm, Greville down with +fever, Wriford with dysentery, Dennis with sunstroke, Brown with +wounds. + + "Jacob and the 'boys' have all the work to themselves, and + well indeed do the boys behave--with a courage and coolness + which would not disgrace veterans. Little Tommy Butler, + Owen, Warner, all behave like heroes, albeit with sadly + diminishing numbers to lead. Neville Chamberlain is come in, + who ought to be worth a thousand men to us." + +Those rascals actually came out to-day (June 25th), in their red coats +and medals! + + "We are not very well off, _quant a la cuisine_. I never had + so much trouble in getting anything fit to eat, except when + I dine with the general. Colonel Seaton lives in my tent, + and is a great companion; his joyous disposition is a + perpetual rebuke to the croakers." + +And so too was your own, my Lieutenant, for we have fortunately a +letter from a distinguished officer, in which he says,-- + + "Affairs at times looked very queer, from the frightful + expenditure of life. Hodson's face was then like sunshine + breaking through the dark clouds of despondency and gloom + that would settle down occasionally on all but a few brave + hearts, England's worthiest sons, who were determined to + conquer." + +But this siege does set one really thinking in earnest about several +things, and this is the conclusion at which our Lieutenant arrives:-- + + "There is but one rule of action for a soldier in the field, + as for a man at all times, to do that which is best for the + public good; to make that your sole aim, resting assured + that the result will in the end be best for individual + interest also. I am quite indifferent not to see my name + appear in newspaper paragraphs and despatches; only content + if I can perform my duty truly and honestly, and too + thankful to the Almighty if I am daily spared for future + labors or future repose." + +But here is another coil this June 27th:-- + + "There has been an outcry throughout the camp at ----'s + having fled from Bhagput, the bridge which caused me so much + hard riding and hard work to get, some time ago." + +He has actually bolted, on a report of mutineers coming, leaving +boats, bridge, and all. By this conduct he has lost our communication +with Meerut, and that too when our reinforcements were actually in +sight. The consequence is that I have to go down to Bhagput to recover +boats, bridge, &c., and reopen communication, which is done at once +and satisfactorily; and by July 2d we are quite comfortable, for I +have set myself up with plates, &c., for one rupee, and Colonel +Seaton's traps and servants will be here to-day ... except that we are +somewhat vexed in our spirits, for + + "---- has been shelved and allowed to get sick, to save him + from supersession. I do not like euphuisms. In these days + men and things should be called by their right names, that + we might know how far either should be trusted. + + "_July 5th._--General Barnard dies of cholera after a few + hours' illness. Personally I am much grieved, for no kinder + or more considerate or gentlemanly man ever lived. I am so + sorry for his son, a fine brave fellow, whose attention to + his father won the love of us all. It was quite beautiful to + see them together." + +And so we plunge on day after day, the rain nearly flooding us out of +camp. Will the ladies in the hills make us some flannel shirts? + + "The soldiers bear up like men, but the constant state of + wet is no small addition to what they have to endure from + heat, hard work, and fighting. I know by experience what a + comfort a dry flannel shirt is. + + "_July 12th._--Three hundred of my new regiment arrive; very + fine-looking fellows, most of them. I am getting quite a + little army under me, what with the Guides and my own men. + Would to Heaven they would give us something more to do than + this desultory warfare, which destroys our best men, and + brings us no whit nearer Delhi, and removes the end of the + campaign to an indefinite period." + +Another fight this 14th July, one of the sharpest we have yet had, and +we who have to lead were obliged to expose ourselves, but really not +more than we could help; and how the papers can have got hold of this +wound story I can't think, for I didn't tell it even to you. The facts +are thus:-- + + "A rascally Pandy made a thrust at my horse, which I + parried, when he seized his 'tulwar' in both hands, bringing + it down like a sledge-hammer; it caught on the iron of my + antigropelos legging, which it broke into the skin, cut + through the stirrup-leather, and took a slice off my boot + and stocking; and yet, wonderful to say, the sword did not + penetrate the skin. Both my horse and myself were staggered + by the force of the blow, but I recovered myself quickly, + and I don't think that Pandy will ever raise his 'tulwar' + again." + +But, to show you that I did no more than was necessary, I must tell +you what Chamberlain had to do, who led in another part. + + "Seeing a hesitation among the troops he led, who did not + like the look of a wall lined with Pandies, and stopped + short, instead of going up to it, he leaped his horse clean + over the wall into the midst of them, and dared the men to + follow, which they did, but he got a ball in the shoulder." + +I must positively give up the Quartermaster-General's work; +head-quarters' staff seems breaking down altogether. General Reed goes +to the hills to-night; Congreve and Curzon have been sent off, too; +Chamberlain and Becher on their backs with wounds. + + "Colonel Young, Norman, and myself, are therefore the only + representatives of the head-quarters' staff, except the + doctors and commissaries. I am wonderfully well, thank God! + and able to get through as much work as any man; but + commanding two regiments, and being eyes and ears to the + whole army, too, is really too much." + +Again, to-day (July 19) a sharp fight; Pandies in great force--driven +pellmell up to the walls; but how about getting back. + + "We were commanded by a fine old gentleman, who might sit + for a portrait of Falstaff, so fat and jolly is he, Colonel + Jones, of 60th Rifles." + +Jolly old Briton, with the clearest possible notion of going on, but +as for retiring, little enough idea of that sort of work in Colonel +Jones. + + "The instant we began to draw off, they followed us, their + immense numbers giving them a great power of annoyance at + very slight cost to themselves. The brave old colonel was + going to retire 'all of a heap,' infantry, guns, and all in + a helpless mass, and we should have suffered cruel loss in + those narrow roads, with walls and buildings on both sides. + I rode up to him and pointed this out, and in reply received + _carte blanche_ to act as I saw best. This was soon done, + with the assistance of Henry Vicars (Adjutant 61st) and + Coghill (Adjutant 2d Bengal European Fusileers), both cool + soldiers under fire, though so young, and we got off in good + order and with trifling loss, drawing the men back slowly, + and in regular order, covered by Dixon's and Money's guns." + +This colonel, too, with no notion of retreating, is a candid man; goes +straight to the general on his return, and begs to thank our +Lieutenant, and to say he hopes for no better aid whenever he has to +lead; unlike some persons under whom we have served. + + "The general has begged me to give up the Guides, and not + the quartermaster-general's office. You, at least, will + rejoice that it greatly diminishes the risk to life and + limb, which, I confess, lately has been excessive in my + case." + +News of Wheeler's surrender--of the massacre four days later (July +26), and our blood is running fire. "There will be a day of reckoning +for these things, and a fierce one, or I have been a soldier in vain." +Another fight on the 24th, and Seaton down with chest-wound, but doing +well; "he is patient and gentle in suffering as a woman, and this +helps his recovery wonderfully." ... Thanks for the flannel +waistcoats; but as for you and Mrs. ---- coming to camp as nurses, no. + + "Unless any unforeseen emergency should arise, I would + strongly dissuade any lady from coming to camp. They would + all very speedily become patients in the very hospitals + which they came to serve, and would so willingly support. + The flannel garments are invaluable, and this is all that + can be done for us by female hands at present.... You say + there is a great difference between doing one's duty and + running unnecessary risks, and you say truly; the only + question, what is one's duty. Now, I might, as I have more + than once, see things going wrong at a time and place when I + might be merely a spectator, and not 'on duty,' or ordered + to be there, and I might feel that by exposing myself to + danger for a time I might rectify matters, and I might + therefore think it right to incur that danger; and yet, if I + were to get hit, it would be said 'he had no business + there;' nor should I, as far as the rules of the service go, + though, in my own mind, I should have been satisfied that I + was right. These are times when every man should do his + best, his utmost, and not say, 'No; though I see I can do + good there, yet, as I have not been ordered and am not on + duty, I will not do it.' This is not my idea of a soldier's + duty, and hitherto the results have proved me right." + +_August 3d._--Rumor that Sir Henry is dead at Lucknow. The news has +quite unnerved me. 5th.--Nana Sahib, the murderer (you remember the +man at the artillery review, a "swell" looking native gentleman, who +spoke French, and was talking a good deal to Alfred Light), has been +beaten by Havelock, they say has drowned himself. + + "I hope it is not true; for it is one of my aims to have the + catching of the said Nana myself. The hanging him would be a + positive pleasure to me.... Nicholson has come on ahead of + our reinforcements from the Punjaub; a host in himself, if + he does not go and get knocked over as Chamberlain did. + + "General Wilson has been down for some days, but is now + better, but nervous and over-anxious about trifles.... These + men are, personally, as brave as lions, but they have not + big hearts or heads enough for circumstances of serious + responsibility.... + + "_August 11th._--Talking of jealousies, one day, under a + heavy fire, Captain ---- came up to me, and begged me to + forget and forgive what had passed, and only to remember + that we were soldiers fighting together in a common cause. + As I was the injured party, I could afford to do this. The + time and place, as well as his manner, appealed to my better + feelings, so I held out my hand at once. Nowadays, we must + stand by and help each other, forget all injuries, and rise + superior to them, or God help us! we should be in terrible + plight." + +_August 12th_.--A brilliant affair under Showers; four guns taken. +Brave young Owen wounded, "riding astride one gun, and a soldier with +musket and fixed bayonet riding each horse, the rest cheering like mad +things. I was in the thick of it, _by accident_." + +By this time, Pandy, having been beaten severely in twenty-three +fights, has had nearly enough of it, and is very chary of doing more +than firing long shots, so there is no longer so much need of our +Lieutenant in camp. He may surely be useful in clearing the +neighborhood and restoring British rule and order; so we find him +starting for Rohtuck, on 17th August, with three hundred men and five +officers,--all his own men, and first-rate,--and Macdowell, two +Goughs, Ward, and Wise. On the 18th the inhabitants send supplies and +fair words, but there is a body of a thousand infantry and three +hundred horse close by, who must be handled. Accordingly, they are +drawn into the open by a feigned retreat, and come on firing and +yelling in crowds. + +"Threes about and at them;" five parties, each headed by an officer, +are upon them. "Never was such a scatter; they fled as if not the +Guides and Hodson's Horse, but death and the devil, were at their +heels." Only eight of my men touched. This will encourage my new +hands, utterly untrained. + +Another skirmish, and now-- + + "In three days we have frightened away and demoralized a + force of artillery, cavalry, and infantry, some two thousand + strong, beat those who stood or returned to fight us, twice, + in spite of numbers, and got fed and furnished forth by the + rascally town itself. Moreover, we have thoroughly cowed the + whole neighborhood, and given them a taste of what more they + will get unless they keep quiet in future.... This is a + terribly egotistical detail, and I am thoroughly ashamed of + saying so much of myself; but you insisted on having a full, + true, and particular account, so do not think me + vainglorious." + +Next come orders, but sadly indefinite ones, to look out for and +destroy the 10th Light Cavalry, who are out in the Jheend district:-- + + "He must either say distinctly 'do this or that,' and I will + do it; or he must give me _carte blanche_ to do what he + wants in the most practicable way, of which I, knowing the + country, can best judge. I am not going to fag my men and + horses to death, and then be told I have exceeded my + instructions. He gives me immense credit for what I have + done, but 'almost wishes I had not ventured so far.' The old + gentleman means well, but does not understand either the + country or the position I was in, nor does he appreciate a + tenth part of the effects which our bold stroke at Rohtuck, + forty-five miles from camp, has produced. '_N'importe_,' + they will find it out sooner or later. I hear both + Chamberlain and Nicholson took my view of the case, and + supported me warmly.... I foresee that I shall remain a + subaltern, and the easy-going majors of brigade, + aides-de-camp, and staff-officers will all get brevets." + +Too true, my Lieutenant. + + "The Victoria Cross, I confess, is the highest object of my + ambition, and had I been one of Fortune's favorites, I + should have had it ere now." + +True again. + + "But, whether a lieutenant or lieutenant-general, I trust I + shall continue to do my duty to the best of my judgment and + ability, as long as strength and sense are vouchsafed to + me." + +We trust, and are on the whole by this time prepared to hazard a +prophecy, that you will so continue, whether lieutenant or general. + +_August 26th._--A glorious victory at Nujjufghur, by Nicholson. I was +not there. Ill in camp; worse luck.... Scouring the country again till +August 30th, when I have to receive an emissary from Delhi to treat. + +Sir Colin Campbell is, they say, at Calcutta, and Mansfield, as chief +of the staff; so now we may get some leading. + +We are in Delhi at last (September 15th), but with grievous loss. My +dear old regiment (1st Fusileers) suffered out of all proportion. + + "Of the officers engaged only Wriford, Wallace, and I are + untouched. My preservation (I don't like the word _escape_) + was miraculous." ... + +Nicholson dangerously hit; ten out of seventeen engineer officers +killed or wounded. + + ... "'You may count our real officers on your fingers now.' + + "_Sept. 16th._--I grieve much for poor Jacob; we buried him + and three sergeants of the regiment, last night; he was a + noble soldier. His death has made me captain, the long + wished-for goal; but I would rather have served on as a + subaltern than gained promotion thus. + + "_Sept. 19th._--We are making slow progress in the city. + The fact is, the troops are utterly demoralized by hard work + and hard drink, I grieve to say. For the first time in my + life, I have had to see English soldiers refuse, repeatedly, + to follow their officers. Greville, Jacob, Nicholson, and + Speke were all sacrificed to this. + + "_Sept. 22d._--In the Royal Palace, Delhi.--I was quite + unable to write yesterday, having had a hard day's work. I + was fortunate enough to capture the King and his favorite + wife. To-day, more fortunate still, I have seized and + destroyed the King's two sons and a grandson (the famous, or + rather infamous, Abu Bukt), the villains who ordered the + massacre of our women and children, and stood by and + witnessed the foul barbarity; their bodies are now lying on + the spot where those of the unfortunate ladies were exposed. + I am very tired, but very much satisfied with my day's work, + and so seem all hands." + +This is Hodson's account of the two most remarkable exploits in even +his career. We have no space to give his own full narrative, which he +writes later, upon being pressed to do so; or the graphic account of +Macdowell, his lieutenant, which will be found in the book, and it +would be literary murder to mutilate such gems. As to defending the +shooting of the two princes, let those do it who feel that a defence +is needed, for we believe that no Englishman, worth convincing, now +doubts as to the righteousness and policy of the act, and probably the +old Radical general-officer and M. P., who thought it his duty to call +Hodson hard names at the time, has reconsidered his opinion. Whether +he has or not, however, matters little. He who did the deed, and is +gone, cared not for hasty or false tongues,--why should we? + + "Strange," he says, "that some of those who are loudest + against me for sparing the King, are also crying out at my + destroying his sons. 'Quousque tandem?' I may well exclaim. + But, in point of fact, I am quite indifferent to clamor + either way. I made up my mind, at the time, to be abused. I + was convinced I was right, and when I prepared to run the + great physical risk of the attempt, I was equally game for + the moral risk of praise or blame. These have not been, and + are not times when a man who would serve his country dare + hesitate, as to the personal consequences to himself, of + what he thinks his duty." + +"By Jove, Hodson, they ought to make you Commander-in-Chief for this," +shouts the enthusiast to whom the prisoners were handed over. "Well, +I'm glad you have got him, but I never expected to see either him or +you again," says the Commander-in-Chief, and sits down and writes the +following despatch:-- + + "The King, who accompanied the troops for some short + distance last night, gave himself up to a party of Irregular + Cavalry, whom I sent out in the direction of the fugitives, + and he is now a prisoner under a guard of European + soldiers." + +Delhi is ours; but at what a cost in officers and men! and Nicholson +is dead. + + "With the single exception of my ever revered friend, Sir + Henry Lawrence, and Colonel Mackeson, I have never met his + equal in field or council; he was preeminently our best and + bravest, and his loss is not to be atoned for in these days. + + "The troops have behaved with singular moderation towards + women and children, considering their provocation. I do not + believe, and I have some means of knowing, that a single + woman or child has been purposely injured by our troops, and + the story on which your righteous indignation is grounded is + quite false; the troops have been demoralized by drink, but + nothing more." + +In November he gets a few weeks' leave, and is off to Umbala to meet +his wife for the last time, safe after all, and no longer a lieutenant +under a cloud. What a meeting must that have been. + +With the taking of Delhi our narrative, already too long, must close, +though a grand five months of heroic action still remained. Nothing in +the book exceeds in interest the ride of ninety-four miles from +Seaton's column, with young Macdowell, to carry a despatch to Sir +Colin, on December 30th. The tale of the early morning summons, the +rumors of enemies on the road, the suspense as to the Chief's +whereabouts, the leaving all escort behind, their flattering and +cordial reception by Sir Colin, (who gets them "chops and ale in a +quiet friendly way,") the fifty-four miles' ride home, the midnight +alarm and escape, and the safe run in, take away our breath. And the +finish is inimitable. + + "All Hodson said," writes Macdowell, "when we were at Bewar, + and safe, was 'By George! Mac, I'd give a good deal for a + cup of tea,' and immediately went to sleep. He is the + coolest hand I have ever yet met. We rode ninety-four miles. + Hodson rode seventy-two on one horse, the little dun, and I + rode Alma seventy-two miles also." + +One more anecdote, however, we cannot resist. On the 6th of January, +1858, Seaton's column joins the Commander-in-Chief; on the 27th, at +Shumshabad, poor young Macdowell (whose letters make one love him) is +killed, and Hodson badly wounded. They were in advance, as usual, with +guns, and had to charge a superior body of cavalry:-- + + "But there was nothing for it but fighting, as, had we not + attacked them, they would have got in amongst our guns. We + were only three officers, and about one hundred and eighty + horsemen,--my poor friend and second in command, Macdowell, + having received a mortal wound a few minutes before we + charged. It was a terrible _melee_ for some time, and we + were most wonderfully preserved. However, we gave them a + very proper thrashing, and killed their leaders. Two out of + the three of us were wounded, and five of my men killed and + eleven wounded, besides eleven horses. My horse had three + sabre-cuts, and I got two, which I consider a rather unfair + share. The Commander-in-Chief is very well satisfied, I + hear, with the day's work, and is profusely civil and kind + to me." + +In another letter he writes:-- + + "They were very superior in number, and individually so as + horsemen and swordsmen, but we managed to 'whop' them all + the same, and drive them clean off the field; not, however, + until they had made two very pretty dashes at us, which cost + us some trouble and very hard fighting. It was the hardest + thing of the kind in which I ever was engaged in point of + regular '_in_ fighting,' as they say in the P. R.; only + _Bell's Life_ could describe it properly. I got a cut, + which laid my thumb open, from a fellow after my sword was + through him, and about half an hour later this caused me to + get a second severe cut, which divided the muscles of the + right arm, and put me _hors de combat_; for my grip on the + sword-handle was weakened, and a demon on foot succeeded in + striking down my guard, or rather his tulwar glanced off my + guard on to my arm. My horse, also, got three cuts. I have + got well most rapidly, despite an attack of erysipelas, + which looked very nasty for three days, and some slight + fever; and I have every reason to be thankful." + +He is able, notwithstanding wounds, to accompany the forces, Colonel +Burn kindly driving him in his dog-cart. Nothing could exceed Sir +Colin's kind attentions. Here is a chief, at last, who can appreciate +a certain captain, late lieutenant under a cloud. The old chief drinks +his health as colonel, and, on Hodson's doubting, says:-- + + "_I_ will see that it is all arranged; just make a + memorandum of your services during the Punjaub war, and I + venture to prophesy that it will not be long before I shake + hands with you as Lieutenant-Colonel Hodson, C.B., with a + Victoria Cross to boot." + +By the end of February he is well, and in command of his regiment +again, and in his last fight saves the life of his adjutant, Lieut. +Gough, by cutting down a rebel trooper in the very act of spearing +him. + +And now comes the end. For a week the siege had gone on, and work +after work of the enemy had fallen. On the 11th of March the Begum's +Palace was to be assaulted. Hodson had orders to move his regiment +nearer to the walls, and while choosing a spot for his camp heard +firing, rode on, and found his friend Brigadier Napier directing the +assault. He joined him, saying, "I am come to take care of you; you +have no business to go to work without me to look after you." They +entered the breach together, were separated in the _melee_, and in a +few minutes Hodson was shot through the chest. The next morning the +wound was declared to be mortal, and he sent for Napier to give his +last instructions. + + "He lay on his bed of mortal agony," says this friend, "and + met death with the same calm composure which so much + distinguished him on the field of battle. He was quite + conscious and peaceful, occasionally uttering a sentence, + 'My poor wife,' 'My poor sisters.' 'I should have liked to + have seen the end of the campaign and gone home to the dear + ones once more, but it was so ordered.' 'It is hard to leave + the world just now, when success is so near, but God's will + be done.' 'Bear witness for me that I have tried to do my + duty to man. May God forgive my sins, for Christ's sake.' 'I + go to my Father.' 'My love to my wife,--tell her my last + thoughts were of her.' 'Lord receive my soul.' These were + his last words, and without a sigh or struggle his pure and + noble spirit took its flight." + +"It was so ordered." They were his own words; and now that the first +anguish of his loss is over, will not even those nearest and dearest +to him acknowledge "it was ordered for the best?" For is there not +something painful to us in calculating the petty rewards which we can +bestow upon a man who has done any work of deliverance for his +country? Do we not almost dread--eagerly as we may desire his +return--to hear the vulgar, formal phrases which are all we can devise +to commemorate the toils and sufferings that we think of with most +gratitude and affection? There is somewhat calming and soothing in the +sadness which follows a brave man to his grave in the very place where +his work was done, just when it was done. Alas, but it is a bitter +lesson to learn, even to us his old schoolfellows, who have never seen +him since we parted at his "leaving breakfast." May God make us all +braver and truer workers at our own small tasks, and worthy to join +him, the hard fighter, the glorious Christian soldier and Englishman, +when our time shall come. + +On the next day, March 13th, he was carried to a soldier's grave, in +the presence of the head-quarters, staff, and of Sir Colin, his last +chief, who writes thus to his widow:-- + + "I followed your noble husband to the grave myself, in order + to mark, in the most public manner, my regret and esteem for + the most brilliant soldier under my command, and one whom I + was proud to call my friend." + +What living Englishman can add one iota to such praise from such lips? +The man of whom the greatest of English soldiers could thus speak, +needs no mark of official approbation, though it is a burning disgrace +to the authorities that none such has been given. But the family +which mourns its noblest son may be content with the rewards which his +gallant life and glorious death have won for him and them,--we believe +that he himself would desire no others. For his brothers-in-arms are +erecting a monument to him in Lichfield Cathedral; his schoolfellows +are putting up a window to him, and the other Rugbaeans who have fallen +with him, in Rugby Chapel; and the three regiments of Hodson's Horse +will hand down his name on the scene of his work and of his death as +long as Englishmen bear rule in India. And long after that rule has +ceased, while England can honor brave deeds and be grateful to brave +men, the heroes of the Indian mutiny will never be forgotten, and the +hearts of our children's children will leap up at the names of +Lawrence, Havelock, and Hodson. + + + + + To the Memory + OF + SIR HENRY LAWRENCE, K. C. B. + THE TRUE CHRISTIAN, THE BRAVE SOLDIER, + THE FAITHFUL FRIEND, + + THESE EXTRACTS FROM THE LETTERS OF + ONE WHOM HE TRAINED + TO FOLLOW IN HIS FOOTSTEPS, AND WHO NOW + RESTS NEAR HIM AT LUCKNOW, + Are Dedicated + + BY THE EDITOR. + + They were lovely and pleasant in their lives, + And in their deaths they were not divided. + + + + +PREFACE TO THE THIRD EDITION. + + +I have now been able to complete the series of extracts from my +brother's letters, down to the morning of the fatal 11th March. The +greater portion of the Fourth Chapter of Part II. will be found to +have been added since the first edition. + +I have to apologize for an inaccuracy in the quotation which I gave +from Sir Colin Campbell's letter on the occasion of my brother's +death. A correct copy of the letter in full will be found at page 431. +I have not found it necessary to make any other corrections of +importance. Cases have been pointed out to me, in which officers who +took part in different operations described, and did good service, are +not mentioned by name; but I felt that I could not supply any such +omissions, without taking upon myself a responsibility which I have +disclaimed. + +It was very natural that my brother, in writing to his wife, should +make especial mention of those in whom she was interested. It is +probable, too, that in some cases, subsequent information would have +modified views expressed at the moment, but I have adhered to the +principle of giving his letters as they were written day by day. + +The favorable reception given to the former editions of this work, has +quite satisfied me that I was not wrong in supposing that my brother's +character only required to be known, in order to be estimated as it +deserved, by Englishmen of every class and profession. + + COOKHAM DEANE, _July, 1859_. + + + + +PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. + + +It can scarcely be needful to make any apology for offering to the +public this record of one who has attracted to himself so large a +measure of attention and admiration. Many, both in this country and in +India, have expressed, and I doubt not many others have felt, a desire +to know more of the commander of Hodson's Horse, and captor of the +King of Delhi and his sons. + +My original intention was to have compiled from my brother's letters +merely an account of the part he bore in the late unhappy war. I very +soon, however, determined to extend the work, so as to embrace the +whole of his life in India. + +I felt that the public would naturally inquire by what previous +process of training he had acquired, not merely his consummate skill +in the great game of war, but his experience of Asiatics and +marvellous influence over their minds. + +The earlier portions of this book will serve to answer such inquiries; +they will show the gradual development of my brother's character and +powers, and that those exploits which astonished the world by their +skill and daring, were but the natural results of the high idea of the +soldier's profession which he proposed to himself, honestly and +consistently worked out during ten years of training, in perhaps the +finest school that ever existed for soldiers and administrators. They +will explain how it was that, in the midst of a struggle for the very +existence of our empire, he was able to call into being and bring into +the field around Delhi an "invincible and all but ubiquitous" body of +cavalry. + +The dragon's teeth which came up armed men, had been sown by him long +before in his earlier career in the Punjaub. There, by many a deed of +daring and activity, by many a successful stratagem and midnight +surprise, by many a desperate contest, he had taught the Sikhs, first +to dread him as an enemy, and then to idolize him as a leader. Already +in 1849 the Governor-General had had "frequent occasions of noticing +not only his personal gallantry, but the activity, energy, and +intelligence with which he discharged whatever duties were intrusted +to him." Even then the name of Hodson, although unknown in England, +except to the few who watched his course with the eyes of affection, +was a sound of terror to the Sikhs, and a bugbear to their children. +In 1852 he earned this high praise from one best qualified to judge: +"Lieutenant Hodson, marvellously attaching the Guides to himself by +the ties of mutual honor, mutual daring, and mutual devotion, has on +every opportunity proved that the discipline of a public school and +subsequent University training are no disqualification for hazardous +warfare, or for the difficult task of keeping wild tribes in check." + +The title given to this book will sufficiently indicate the principle +on which, particularly in the first part, I have made selections from +my brother's letters. My object has been to show what a soldier's life +in India may be, and what in his case it was; how wide and varied is +the field which it opens for the exercise of the highest and noblest +qualities, intellectual and moral, of our nature; and how +magnificently he realized and grasped the conception. + +His letters, written in all the freedom of unreserved intercourse, +will give a truer notion of his character than the most labored +description; they exhibit the undercurrent of deep feelings that ran +through even his most playful moods, the yearning after home that +mingled with the dreams of ambition and the thirst for the excitement +of war, the almost womanly tenderness that coexisted with the stern +determination of the soldier. They show that though his lot was cast +in camps, he was not a mere soldier; though a hanger-on on the +outskirts of civilization amidst wild tribes, he had a keen +appreciation of the refinement and elegancies of civilized life; that +though in India, he remembered that he was an Englishman; that though +living amongst the heathen, he did not forget that he was a +Christian. + +I have not attempted to write a biography, but have allowed my brother +to speak for himself, merely supplying such connecting links as seemed +absolutely necessary. + +Indeed, I could do no otherwise; for unhappily, during the twelve +years of his soldier's life,--those years in which his character +received its mature development,--I knew him only by his letters, or +by the reports of others; when we parted on board the ship that +carried him from England, in 1845, we parted to meet no more in this +world. My recollections of him, vivid as they are, are not of the +leader of men in council and the battle-field, but of the bright and +joyous boy, the life of the home circle, the tender and affectionate +son, the loving brother, the valued friend, the popular companion. + +Of what he became afterwards my readers will have the same means of +judging as myself. He seems to me to have been one of whom not only +his family, but his country may well be proud,--a worthy +representative of the English name and nation amongst the tribes of +India, an impersonation of manly straightforwardness, and unhesitating +daring, and irresistible power. + +I cannot doubt but that the verdict of his countrymen will confirm my +judgment. + +Many too, I believe, will agree with me in thinking that these pages +prove that the poetry and romance of war are not yet extinct, that +even the Enfield rifle has not reduced all men to a dead level, but +that there is still a place to be found for individual prowess, for +the lion heart, and the eagle eye, and the iron will. One seems +transported back from the prosaic nineteenth century to the ages of +romance and chivalry, and to catch a glimpse, now of a Paladin of old, +now of a knightly hero _sans peur et sans reproche_; now, of a +northern chieftain, "riding on border foray," now of a captain of +free-lances; yet all dissolving into a Christian soldier of our own +day. + +Most striking of all, it has appeared to me, is the resemblance to the +romantic career of that hero of the Spanish ballads, who, by his many +deeds of heroic daring, gained for himself the distinguished title of +"El de las Hazanas,"--"He of the exploits." Those who are acquainted +with the chronicles of the Conquest of Granada, will almost fancy in +reading these pages that they are hearing again the story of Fernando +Perez del Pulgar; how at one time by a bold dash he rode with a +handful of followers across a country swarming with the enemy, and +managed to force his way into a beleaguered fortress; how at another +he galloped alone up the streets of Granada, then in possession of the +enemy, to the gates of the principal mosque, and nailed a paper to the +door with his dagger; how again he turned the tide of battle by the +mere charm of his eagle eye and thrilling voice, inspiring the most +timid with a courage equal to his own; how he made the enemy lay down +their arms at his word of command; how the Moorish mothers frightened +their children with the sound of his name; how he was not only the +harebrained adventurer, delighting in peril and thirsting for the +excitement of the fight, but also the courteous gentleman, the +accomplished scholar; as profound and sagacious in the council as he +was reckless in the field, and frequently selected by the wily +Ferdinand to conduct affairs requiring the greatest prudence and +judgment.[1] + +It may be, however, that affection has biassed my judgment, and that I +shall be thought to have formed an exaggerated estimate of the +grandeur and nobleness of the subject of this memoir. Even if this be +so, I shall not take much to heart the charge of having loved such a +brother too well, and I shall console myself with the thought that I +have endeavored to do something to perpetuate his memory. + +If, however, any young soldier be induced, by reading these pages, to +take a higher view of his profession, to think of it as one of the +noblest fields in which he can serve his God and his country, and +enter on it in a spirit of self-sacrifice, with "duty" as his guiding +principle, and a determination never to forget that he is a Christian +soldier and an Englishman, I shall be abundantly rewarded; my main +object will be attained. + + COOKHAM DEANE, _December, 1858_. + +FOOTNOTE: + +[1] See Washington Irving, &c. + + + + +TABLE OF CONTENTS. + + +PART I. + + CHAPTER I. + + EARLY LIFE--RUGBY--TRINITY COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE--GUERNSEY + MILITIA pp. 57-61 + + + CHAPTER II. + + ARRIVAL IN INDIA--CAMPAIGN ON THE SUTLEJ, BATTLES OF + MOODKEE, FEROZESHAH, SOBRAON--OCCUPATION OF + LAHORE--1845-6 62-81 + + + CHAPTER III. + + FIRST BENGAL EUROPEAN FUSILEERS--CASHMERE WITH SIKH + ARMY--LAWRENCE ASYLUM--APPOINTMENT TO GUIDE + CORPS--_June, 1846-Oct. 1847_ 82-102 + + + CHAPTER IV. + + EMPLOYMENT IN THE PUNJAUB AS SECOND IN COMMAND OF THE + CORPS OF GUIDES, AND ALSO AS ASSISTANT TO THE RESIDENT + AT LAHORE--ROAD-MAKING AND SURVEYING--CAMPAIGN OF + 1848-9--CAPTURE OF FORTS--BATTLE OF GUJERAT--ANNEXATION + OF PUNJAUB--_Oct. 1847-March, 1849_ 103-141 + + + CHAPTER V. + + ANNEXATION OF PUNJAUB--INCREASE OF CORPS OF GUIDES AT + PESHAWUR--TRANSFER TO CIVIL DEPARTMENT AS ASSISTANT + COMMISSIONER--_April, 1849-April, 1850_ 142-156 + + + CHAPTER VI. + + TOUR IN CASHMERE AND THIBET WITH SIR HENRY LAWRENCE + --TRANSFER TO CIS-SUTLEJ PROVINCES--_June, 1850-Oct. + 1851_ 157-177 + + + CHAPTER VII. + + MARRIAGE--COMMAND OF THE GUIDES--PESHAWUR--EUZOFZAI + --FRONTIER WARFARE--MURDAN--_Jan. 1852-Nov. 1854_ 178-204 + + + CHAPTER VIII. + + REVERSES--UNJUST TREATMENT--OFFICIAL ENMITY--LOSS OF + COMMAND--SUPPRESSION OF REPORT--RETURN TO REGIMENTAL + DUTIES--BETTER PROSPECTS--MAJOR TAYLOR'S + REPORT--TESTIMONY OF SIR R. NAPIER--MR. + MONTGOMERY--_Nov. 1854-May, 1857_ 205-226 + + +PART II. + +NARRATIVE OF THE DELHI CAMPAIGN, 1857, 1858. + + CHAPTER I. + + OUTBREAK OF REBELLION--MARCH DOWN TO DELHI FROM DUGSHAI + WITH FIRST EUROPEAN BENGAL FUSILEERS--APPOINTMENT TO + INTELLIGENCE DEPARTMENT--RIDE FROM KURNAL TO MEERUT TO + OPEN COMMUNICATION--ORDER TO RAISE REGIMENT--DEATH OF + GENERAL ANSON--_May 10th-June 8th_ pp. 227-245 + + + CHAPTER II. + + SIEGE OF DELHI--_June-August_ 246-306 + + + CHAPTER III. + + SIEGE OF DELHI, CONTINUED--ROHTUCK EXPEDITION--ASSAULT + --DELHI TAKEN--CAPTURE OF KING--CAPTURE AND EXECUTION + OF SHAHZADAHS--_August 17th-Sept. 25th_ 307-359 + + + CHAPTER IV. + + OPERATIONS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF DELHI--SHOWERS'S + COLUMN--SEATON'S COLUMN--ACTIONS AT GUNGEREE, PUTIALEE, + MYNPOOREE--RIDE TO COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF'S CAMP--JUNCTION + OF FORCES--SHUMSHABAD--_Oct.-Jan._ 360-418 + + + CHAPTER V. + + ALUMBAGH, LUCKNOW--THE BEGUM'S PALACE--BANKS'S + HOUSE--THE SOLDIER'S DEATH--NOTICES--CONCLUDING + REMARKS--_Feb.-March 12th_ 419-444 + + + + +TWELVE YEARS OF A SOLDIER'S LIFE IN INDIA. + + + + +PART I. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + + EARLY LIFE.--RUGBY.--CAMBRIDGE.--GUERNSEY. + + +William Stephen Raikes Hodson, third son of Rev. George Hodson, +afterwards Archdeacon of Stafford and Canon of Lichfield, was born at +Maisemore Court, near Gloucester, on 19th March, 1821. + +As a boy, his affectionate disposition and bright and joyous character +endeared him greatly to his family, and made him a general favorite +with all around him, old and young, rich and poor. That which +characterized him most was his quickness of observation and his +interest in everything going on about him. By living with his eyes and +ears open, and never suffering anything to escape his notice, he +acquired a stock of practical knowledge which he turned to good +account in his after-life. With the exception of a short time spent +with a private tutor, the Rev. E. Harland, he was educated at home +till he went to Rugby, in his fifteenth year. Home life, however, had +not prevented him from growing up an active, high-spirited boy, full +of life and energy. + +His feats of activity at Rugby still live in the remembrance of his +contemporaries and the traditions of the school. The following is an +extract from a paper in the _Book of Rugby School_, published in +1856:-- + + Who does not remember the fair-haired, light-complexioned + active man whose running feats, whether in the open fields + or on the gravel walks of the Close, created such marvel + among his contemporaries. He has carried his hare and hounds + into his country's service, and as commandant of the gallant + corps of Guides, has displayed an activity and courage on + the wild frontier of the Punjaub, the natural development of + his early prowess at Crick and Brownsover. + +A very similar notice appeared in a periodical during the recent +campaign:-- + + The Rugboeans have had their Crick run. Six miles over heavy + country, there and back, to the school gates by the road, is + no mean distance to be done in one hour twenty-nine minutes. + + There was a day when the gallant leader of _Hodson's Horse_ + always led in this run. We think we see "larky Pritchard," + as he was familiarly designated, in his blue cloth jacket, + white trousers, his well-known belt, and his "golden hair," + going in front with his nice easy stride, (for he never had + any very great pace, though he could last forever,) and + getting back coolly and comfortably to "Bons" when the rear + hounds were toiling a mile behind. There never was such a + boy to run over, after second lesson, to Dunchurch to see + the North Warwickshire, or to give himself a "pipe-opener" + to Lutterworth and back between callings over, till the + doctor vowed he would injure his heart. How true it is that + men who have distinguished themselves most in school sports + come out the best at last. + +It was not, however, only in active sports that he showed ability. As +head of a house, during the later portion of his Rugby life, he gave +equal indications of "administrative capacity." + +His tutor, (the present Bishop of Calcutta,) speaking of his having +been transferred to his house, in which there were then no praepostors, +"because, from his energetic character and natural ability, he seemed +to Dr. Arnold likely to give me efficient help," continues: "He gave +abundant proof that Arnold's choice had been a wise one. Though he +immediately reestablished the shattered prestige of praepositorial +power, he contrived to make himself very popular with various classes +of boys. The younger ones found in him an efficient protector against +bullying. Those of a more literary turn found in him an agreeable and +intelligent companion, and were fond of being admitted to sit in his +study and talk on matters of intellectual interest. The democrats had +got their master, and submitted with a good grace to power which they +could not resist, and which was judiciously and moderately exercised. +The _regime_ was wise, firm, and kind, and the house was happy and +prosperous. + +"From all that I knew of him, both at Rugby and afterwards, I was not +surprised at the courage and coolness which the _Times_ compared 'to +the spirit of a Paladin of old.' I cannot say how much I regret that I +shall not be welcomed in India by the first head of my dear old house +at Rugby." + +From Rugby my brother went, in October, 1840, to Trinity College, +Cambridge. Here, as might have been expected from his previous habits, +he took an active interest in boating and other athletic amusements, +while at the same time he by no means neglected the more serious and +intellectual pursuits of the University. He had a very considerable +acquaintance with, and taste for, both classical and general +literature, but a constitutional tendency to headache very much stood +in the way of any close application to books; and, after he had taken +his degree in 1844, was one strong reason for his deciding on an +active rather than a studious life. The Indian army seemed to offer +the best opening, but while waiting for a cadetship, in order to +prevent superannuation he obtained, through the kind introduction of +Lord de Saumarez, a commission in the Guernsey Militia from +Major-General W. Napier, the Lieutenant-Governor, and there commenced +his military life. From the first he felt that the profession of a +soldier was one that required to be studied, and took every +opportunity of mastering its principles. + +On his leaving Guernsey to enter the Hon. East India Company's +service, Major-General W. Napier bore this testimony to his character: +"I think he will be an acquisition to any service. His education, his +ability, his zeal to make himself acquainted with military matters, +gave me the greatest satisfaction during his service with the +militia." + + + + +CHAPTER II. + + ARRIVAL IN INDIA.--CAMPAIGN ON THE SUTLEJ, 1845-46. + + +My brother landed at Calcutta on the 13th of September, 1845, and, +with as little delay as possible, proceeded up the country to Agra, +where he found a hearty welcome beneath the hospitable roof of the +Hon. James Thomason, Lieutenant-Governor of the Northwest Provinces, +an old family friend and connection, who, from that time to his death, +treated him with as much affection, and took as deep an interest in +his career, as if he had been his own son. + +He was appointed to do duty with the 2d Grenadiers, then forming a +part of the Governor-General's escort, and, accordingly, left Agra on +November 2d. In the following letter he describes his first +impressions of camp life in an Indian army. + +After mentioning a delay caused by an attack of fever and dysentery, +on his way to the camp, he proceeds:-- + + I was able, however, to join the Grenadiers at four o'clock + on the morning of the 7th, and share their dusty march of + ten miles to the village near which the Governor-General's + camp was pitched. Since that day we have been denizens of a + canvas city of a really astonishing extent, seeing that it + is the creation of a few hours, and shifts with its enormous + population, some ten or fifteen miles a day. I wonder more + every day at the ease and magnitude of the arrangements, and + the varied and interesting pictures continually before our + eyes. Soon after four A. M., a bugle sounds the _reveille_, + and the whole mass is astir at once. The smoke of the + evening fires has by this time blown away, and everything + stands out clear and defined in the bright moonlight. The + Sepoys, too, bring the straw from their tents, and make + fires to warm their black faces on all sides, and the groups + of swarthy redcoats stooping over the blaze, with a white + background of canvas, and the dark clear sky behind all, + produce a most picturesque effect as one turns out into the + cold. Then the multitudes of camels, horses, and elephants, + in all imaginable groups and positions,--the groans and + cries of the former as they stoop and kneel for their + burdens, the neighing of hundreds of horses mingling with + the shouts of the innumerable servants and their masters' + calls, the bleating of sheep and goats, and louder than all, + the shrill screams of the Hindoo women, almost bewilder + one's senses as one treads one's way through the canvas + streets and squares to the place where the regiment + assembles outside the camp. + + A second bugle sounds "the assembly." There is a blaze of + torches from the Governor's tents; his palanquin carriage, + drawn by four mules, and escorted by jingling troopers, + trots to the front. The artillery thunder forth the morning + gun, as a signal that the great man is gone,--the guns + rattle by,--the cavalry push on after them,--and then at + length our band strikes up. "Forward" is the word, and the + red (and black) column moves along, by this time as + completely obscured by the dense clouds of dust as though + they were in London during a November fog. We are not + expected to remain with our men, but mount at once, and ride + in a cluster before the band, or ride on a quarter of a mile + or so, in twos and threes, complaining of the laziness of + the great man's people, and of the dust and cold, as if we + were the most ill-used of her Majesty's subjects. As soon as + we're off the ground, and the road pretty clear, I dismount, + and walk the first eight miles or so, this being the time to + recover one's powers of locomotion. The cold is really very + great, especially in the hour before sunrise,--generally + about one and a half or two hours after we start. It soon + gets warm enough to make one glad to ride again, and by the + time the march is over, and the white city is in sight, the + heat is very great, though now diminishing daily. It is a + sudden change of temperature, truly,--from near freezing at + starting, to 90 deg. or 100 deg. at arriving; and it is this, I + think, which makes us feel the heat so much in this climate. + In the daytime we get on very well; the heat seldom + exceeding 86 deg., and often not more than 84 deg. and 82 deg. in tents. + It sounds hot, but a house or tent at 84 deg. is tolerably + endurable, especially if there is a breeze. My tent is + twelve feet square inside, and contains a low pallet bed, a + table, chair, two camel trunks, and brass basin for washing. + I will get a sketch of the camp to send you. + + _Nov. 18th._--This nomad life is agreeable in many respects, + and very healthy, and one sees a great deal of the country, + but it destroys time rather, as the march is not over, + generally, till half-past nine or ten, and then breakfast, + a most eagerly desired composition, and dressing afterwards, + do not leave much of the day before the cool evening comes + for exercise, or sight-seeing and dining, and by nine most + of us are in bed, or near it. + + _Dec. 2._--Umbala.--We had a short march of six miles into + Umbala this morning, and I got leave from our colonel to + ride on and see the troops assemble to greet the + Governor-General. I never saw so splendid a sight: 12,000 of + the finest troops were drawn up in one line, and as I rode + slowly along the whole front, I had an excellent opportunity + of examining the varied materials of an Indian army. First + were the English Horse Artillery; then the dashing dragoons + of the 3d Queen's, most splendidly mounted and appointed; + then came the stern, determined-looking British footmen, + side by side with their tall and swarthy brethren from the + Ganges and Jumna,--the Hindoo, the Mussulman, and the white + man, all obeying the same word, and acknowledging the same + common tie; next to these a large brigade of guns, with a + mixture of all colors and creeds; then more regiments of + foot, the whole closed up by the regiments of native + cavalry: the quiet-looking and English-dressed Hindoo + troopers strangely contrasted with the wild Irregulars in + all the fanciful _un_uniformity of their native costume; yet + these last are the men _I_ fancy for service. Altogether, it + was a most interesting sight, either to the historian or + soldier, especially as one remembered that these were no men + of parade, but assembled here to be poured across the Sutlej + at a word. + +The "pomp and circumstance" of war were soon to be exchanged for its +stern realities, as will be seen in the following letter to his +father, dated Christmas Day, 1845:-- + + CAMP, SULTANPOOR. + + I take the first day of rest we have had, to write a few + hurried lines to relieve you from any anxiety you may have + felt at not hearing from me by the last mails, or from + newspaper accounts, which will, I fear, reach you before + this letter can. I am most thankful to be able to sit down + once more to write to you all but unharmed. Since I wrote, I + have been in four general engagements of the most formidable + kind ever known in India. For the first time we had to + contend with a brave and unconquered people, disciplined, + and led on like our own troops by European skill; and the + result, though successful to our arms, has been fearful + indeed as to carnage. You will see accounts in the papers + giving details more accurate than I can possibly furnish, + both of our wonderfully rapid and fatiguing marches, and of + the obstinate and bloody resistance we met with. On the 10th + of this month, on our usual quiet march to Sirhind with the + Governor-General's camp, we were surprised by being joined + by an additional regiment, and by an order for all + non-soldiers to return to Umbala. From that day we have had + the fatigues and exertions of actual warfare in their + broadest forms,--marching day and night unprecedented + distances, scarcity of sleep and food, and all the varieties + of cold and heat. I enjoyed all, and entered into it with + great zest, till we came to actual blows, or rather, I am + (_now_) half ashamed to say, till the blows were over, and I + saw the horrible scenes which ensue on war. I have had quite + enough of such sights now, and hope it may not be my lot to + be exposed to them again. Our loss has been most severe, + especially in officers. Our Sepoys could not be got to face + the tremendous fire of the Sikh artillery, and, as usual, + the more they quailed, the more the English officers exposed + themselves in vain efforts to bring them on. The greatest + destruction was, however, among the Governor-General's + staff,--only two (his own son and Colonel Benson) escaped + death or severe wounds. They seemed marked for destruction, + and certainly met it most gallantly. On the 15th we joined + the Commander-in-Chief, with his troops from Umbala, were + put off escort duty, and joined General Gilbert's division. + On the 17th we had a march of thirty miles, (in the daytime, + too,) with scanty food; on the 18th, after a fasting march + of twenty-five miles, we were summoned, at half-past four in + the afternoon, to battle, which lasted till long after dark. + Almost the first shot which greeted our regiment killed the + man standing by my side, and instantly afterwards I was + staggered by a ball from a frightened Sepoy behind me + grazing my cheek and blackening my face with the powder,--so + close was it to my head! We were within twenty, and at times + ten, yards of three guns blazing grape into us, and worse + than all, the bushes with which the whole ground was covered + were filled with marksmen who, unseen by us, could pick us + off at pleasure. No efforts could bring the Sepoys forward, + or half the loss might have been spared, had they rushed on + with the bayonet. We had three officers wounded out of our + small party, and lost many of the men. We were bivouacked on + the cold ground that night, and remained under arms the + whole of the following day. Just as we were going into + action, I stumbled upon poor Carey, whom you may remember to + have heard of at Price's, at Rugby. On going over the field + on the 30th, I found the body actually cut to pieces by the + keen swords of the Sikhs, and but for his clothes could not + have recognized him. I had him carried into camp for burial, + poor fellow, extremely shocked at the sudden termination of + our renewed acquaintance. On Sunday, the 21st, we marched + before daybreak in force to attack the enemy, who had + intrenched themselves behind their formidable artillery. The + action began in the afternoon, lasted the whole night, and + was renewed with daybreak. They returned again to the charge + as often as we gained any advantage, and it was evening + before they were finally disposed of by a charge of our + dragoons, _and our ammunition was exhausted!_--so near are + we in our most triumphant successes to a destruction as + complete! The results are, I suppose, in a political point + of view, immense indeed. We took from them nearly one + hundred large guns, and routed their vast army, prepared, + had they succeeded in beating us, to overrun Hindostan; and + it must be owned they had nearly succeeded! It will scarcely + be believed, but they had actually purchased and prepared + supplies as far into the interior of our country as Delhi, + and unknown to our authorities; and the whole of Northern + India was, as usual, ready to rise upon us at an hour's + notice. On the evening of the 21st, as we rushed towards the + guns, in the most dense dust and smoke, and under an + unprecedented fire of grape, our Sepoys again gave way and + broke. It was a fearful crisis, but the bravery of the + English regiments saved us. The Colonel (Hamilton), the + greater part of my brother officers, and myself, were left + with the colors and about thirty men immediately in front of + the batteries! Our escape was most providential, and is, I + trust, thankfully acknowledged by us. A ball (from a shell, + I fancy) struck my leg below the knee, but happily spared + the bone, and only inflicted a flesh wound. I was also + knocked down _twice_,--once by a shell bursting so close to + me as to kill the men behind me, and once by the explosion + of a magazine or mine. I am most thankful indeed for my + escape from death or maiming. The wound in my leg is + nothing, as you may judge when I tell you that I was on foot + or horseback the whole of the two following days. Last night + we moved on here about five miles from the scene of action, + and got some food, and into our beds, after four days and + nights on the ground, alternately tried with heat and cold + (now most severe at night), and nothing but an occasional + mouthful of black native bread. I think, during the four + days, all I had to eat would not compose half a home + breakfast-loaf, and for a day and night we had not even + water; when we did get water, after driving the enemy from + their camp, it was found to have been spoiled with + gunpowder! It was like eating Leamington water, but our + thirst was too great to stick at trifles. + + _Dec. 26th._--We are resting here comfortably again in our + tents, and had a turkey for our Christmas dinner last night. + The rest is most grateful. We had only nine hours in bed out + of five nights, and then the next four were on the ground. + So you see I have come in for the realities of a soldier's + life pretty early in my career; and since I am spared, it is + doubtless a great thing for me in every way. There never has + been anything like it in India, and it is not often that an + action _anywhere_ has lasted thirty-six hours as ours did. + It is called a succession of three engagements, but the + firing never ceased for a quarter of an hour. Infantry + attacking guns was the order of the day, and the loss + occasioned by such a desperate resort was fearful. How + different your Christmas week will have been from mine! This + time last year I was quietly staying at Bisham, and now + sleeping on the banks of the Sutlej, with a sea of tents + around me for miles and miles! The last few days seem a + year, and I can scarcely believe that I have only been four + months in India, and only two with my regiment. + + * * * * * + + _To the_ Hon. James Thomason, _Lieutenant-Governor of Northwest + Provinces_. + + CAMP, BOOTAWALLAH, _January 22d, 1846_. + + There is very much in the state of things in this army both + discouraging and deeply disappointing to one who like myself + comes into the service with a strong predilection for the + profession, and a wish to enter into its duties thoroughly + and _earnestly_. I do not like to enter into particulars, + for I hold it very unmilitary, especially in so young a + soldier, to attempt to criticize the acts and motives of + one's superior, but I may _in private_ again express my + extreme disappointment at the state in which the Sepoys are + at present, and as far as I can judge from what is said in + conversation, there are but few officers in the army who do + not deplore it. In discipline and subordination they seem to + be lamentably deficient, especially towards the native + commissioned and non-commissioned officers. On the march, I + have found these last give me more trouble than the men + even. My brother officers say that I see an unfavorable + specimen in the 2d, as regards discipline, owing to their + frequent service of late, and the number of recruits; but I + fear the evil is very wide-spread. It may no doubt be traced + mainly to the want of European officers. This, however, is + an evil not likely to be removed on any large scale. + Meantime, unless some vigorous and radical improvements + take place, I think our position will be very uncertain and + even alarming in the event of extended hostilities. You must + really forgive my speaking so plainly, and writing my own + opinions so freely. You encouraged me to do so when I was at + Agra, if you remember, and I value the privilege too highly + as connected with the greater one of receiving advice and + counsel from you, not to exercise it, even at the risk of + your thinking me presumptuous and hasty in my opinions. I + imagine (in my own defence be it said) that three months of + marching and of service give you more insight into the + _real_ efficiency or evils of an army, than a much longer + time spent in cantonments. It is, of course, a deeply + interesting subject to me, and one of deep and anxious + reflection. I think the period of "doing duty," which I + shall have passed ere joining my future regiment, of the + greatest consequence and benefit, as enabling me to form a + judgment, to the best of my abilities, of the course to be + steered in the difficult voyage. It seems to me that the + great problem to be solved is how "_to do your own + business_," at the same time that "_you study to be quiet_" + _i. e._, how unostentatiously to do your appointed duty + thoroughly, without being deterred by the fear of being + _thought_ over-zealous or ostentatious. + +At a later period, when it was proposed to erect a monument in +Lichfield Cathedral to the 80th Queen's, he wrote with reference to +their conduct in this action:-- + + It is, you know, a Staffordshire regiment, having been + raised originally by the Marquis of Anglesey, and has still + a great number of Staffordshire men in its ranks. It is a + splendid corps, well-behaved in cantonments, and first-rate + in action. I lay between them and my present regiment (1st + E. B. Fusileers) on the night of the 21st of December, at + Ferozeshah, when Lord Hardinge called out "80th! that gun + must be silenced." They jumped up, formed into line, and + advanced through the black darkness silently and firmly; + gradually we lost the sound of their tread, and anxiously + listened for the slightest intimation of their + progress,--all was still for five minutes, while they + gradually gained the front of the battery whose fire had + caused us so much loss. Suddenly we heard a dropping + fire,--a blaze of the Sikh cannon followed, then a thrilling + cheer from the 80th, accompanied by a rattling and murderous + volley as they sprang upon the battery and spiked the + monster gun. In a few more minutes they moved back quietly, + and lay down as before in the cold sand: but they had left + forty-five of their number and two captains to mark the + scene of their exploit by their graves. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, ARMY OF THE SUTLEJ, _Feb. 12th, 1846_. + + The fortune of war has again interfered between me and my + good intentions of answering all my correspondence by this + mail. We have been knocked about for some days so + incessantly that there has been no chance of writing + anything; and even this scrawl, I fear, will hardly reach + you. You will hear publicly of our great victory of the + 10th,[2] and of the total and final rout of the Sikh force. + But first, I must tell you that the 2d Grenadiers were sent + back about a week ago to the villages and posts in our rear, + to keep open the communication. Not liking the notion of + returning to the rear while an enemy was in front, I applied + immediately to do duty with another regiment; my petition + was granted; and I joined the 16th Grenadiers on the evening + of the 9th inst. About three in the morning we advanced + towards the Sikh intrenchments along the river's bank. Our + guns and ammunition had all come up a day or two before, and + during the night were placed in position to shell their + camp. At daybreak, seventeen heavy mortars and howitzers, + rockets, and heavy guns commenced a magnificent fire on + their position; at half-past eight the infantry + advanced,--Sir R. Dick's division on the right, and ours + (Gilbert's) in front,--covered by our fire from the + batteries. On we went as usual in the teeth of a dreadful + fire of guns and musketry, and after a desperate struggle we + got within their _triple_ and _quadruple_ intrenchments; and + then their day of reckoning came indeed. Driven from trench + to trench, and surrounded on all sides, they retired, + fighting most bravely, to the river, into which they were + driven pell-mell, a tremendous fire of musketry pouring on + them from our bank, and the Horse Artillery finishing their + destruction with grape. The river is literally choked with + corpses, and their camp full of dead and dying. An + intercepted letter of theirs shows that they have lost + 20,000 in killed, wounded, and missing; all their guns + remaining in our hands. I had the pleasure myself of spiking + two guns which were turned on us. Once more I have escaped, + I am thankful to say, unhurt, except that a bullet took a + fancy to my little finger and cut the skin off the top of + it,--a mere pin scratch, though it spoiled a buckskin glove. + I am perfectly well; we cross in a day or two, but I fancy + have done with fighting. + + + * * * * * + + _To his Sister._ + + LAHORE, _Feb. 27th, 1846_. + + In honor of your birthday, I suppose, we crossed the Sutlej + on the 17th, and are now encamped close to old Runjeet + Singh's capital, without a shot having been fired on this + side the river! The war is over: sixty days have seen the + overthrow of the Sikh army, which, when that period + commenced, marched from the spot on which the victors are + now encamped, with no fewer than 100,000 fighting men, _now_ + + A broken and a routed host, + Their standards gone, their leaders lost. + + So ends the tale of the mightiest army, and the best + organized, which India has seen. + + I hope you will have got a scrap I wrote after the fight at + Sobraon in hopes it would reach you before the newspapers, + as I have no doubt you were all anxious enough on my + account, and indeed you well might be, for I can hardly + imagine (humanly speaking) how it was possible to go through + that storm of bullets and shot unhurt. I have indeed much to + be thankful for, and I hope I shall not forget the lesson. A + campaign is a wonderful dispeller of false notions and young + imaginations, and seems too stern a hint to be soon + forgotten. + +About this time Mr. Thomason says, in a letter to my father:-- + +"I hear of William constantly from friends in camp, and am glad to +find that he is a great favorite in his regiment. I had some little +fear that his great superiority in age and attainments to those of his +own standing in the army might make him the object of envy and +disparagement. I felt that he had no easy task before him, and that it +would be difficult to conduct himself with discretion and becoming +humility in such a position. He was quite aware of the difficulty when +we talked the matter over at Agra, and I am much pleased to see the +success which has attended his prudent exertions." + + LAHORE, _March 4th, 1846_. + + The army breaks up now very soon, but I shall be posted + before that. I am trying to get into the 1st European + regiment, now stationed at Umbala, who have just been styled + Fusileers for their distinguished service. It is the finest + regiment in India, with white faces, too, and a very nice + set of officers. I have been brigaded with them all along. + + It seems an age since the campaign opened. One _day_ of + fighting such as we have had fastens itself on the memory + more than a year of peaceful life. We must really have a + natural taste for fighting highly developed, for I catch + myself wishing and "asking for more," and grumbling at the + speedy settlement of things, and the prospect of cantonments + instead of field service. Is it not marvellous, as if one + had not had a surfeit of killing? But the truth is, _that_ + is not the motive, but a sort of undefined ambition.... I + remember bursting into tears in sheer rage in the midst of + the fight at Sobraon at seeing our soldiers lying killed and + wounded. Don't let any of my friends forget me yet. I have + found a new one, I think, in Major Lawrence,[3] the new + President at this Court, thanks to the unwearying kindness + of Mr. Thomason. + + +In a letter of the same date to Hon. J. Thomason, the following +sentence occurs:-- + + I must thank you very much for making me known to Major + Lawrence, from whom I have received every sort of attention + and kindness. I have been very much struck with his + superiority, and freedom from diplomatic solemnity and + mystery, which is rather affected by the politicals and + officials. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, NUGGUR GHAT, ON THE SUTLEJ, _March 27th, 1846_. + + The last returning regiment of the army of the Sutlej + crossed that river yesterday morning, and by to-morrow every + man will have left its banks, on their way to their + stations. It was a most interesting and picturesque sight to + see the army filing across the splendid bridge of boats + constructed by our engineers at this place. So many of the + native corps have been required for the new province and for + the Lahore garrison, that we had hardly any but Europeans + homeward-bound, which gave an additional and home interest + to the passage of the river. Dusty, travel-stained, and + tired, but with that cool, firm air of determination which + is the most marked characteristic of English soldiers, + regiment after regiment passed on, cavalry, artillery, and + infantry in succession, their bands playing quicksteps and + national tunes, as each stepped upon the bridge. To _you_ + the sight would have been only interesting; but to those of + us who had seen the same corps three months ago, their + reduced numbers and fearfully thinned ranks told a sadder + tale. Regiments cut down to a third, individual companies + to a fourth or fifth of their former strength, gave a silent + but eloquent reply to the boastful strains of martial music, + and to the stirring influence of the pageant. As each + regiment moved up on this side the river, our fine old chief + addressed a few words of congratulation and praise to each; + they pushed on to their tents, and a genuine English cheer, + caught up and repeated from corps to corps, and a thundering + salute from the artillery, proclaimed the final dispersion, + and bid an appropriate farewell to the army of the Sutlej. + + Thus ends my first campaign! To-morrow I march with the 26th + Native Infantry to Umbala, where I hope to be transferred to + the 1st Europeans. I was posted to the 26th a few days ago, + but have not joined yet, as I applied at once for an + exchange. Marching and living in tents is becoming + unpleasantly hot now, and in another fortnight will be very + bad. Yesterday we had a regular storm of wind and dust, + filling everything with sand, and darkening the air most + effectually; one's mouth, eyes, ears, and pockets get filled + with dust; you sit down to breakfast, and your plate is + ready loaded with sand, your coffee is excellently + thickened, and your milk would pass for clotted cream,--but + for the color. Then you get a sheet of paper, and vainly + imagine you're writing, but the sand conceals the last word + you write ere the ink can dry, and your pens split of + themselves with the dryness of the air. In truth, it is next + to impossible to do anything while the storm lasts, for + one's eyes smart and cry with the plenitude of grit; and if + you talk, you are set coughing with eating small stones! Yet + all this is far better than the damp-exhaling heat of + Bengal. Here the ground and air are as dry by night as by + day, and no exhalation poisons the freshness of any wind + that may be stirring. + + * * * * * + + UMBALA, _April 13th, 1846_. + + Here I am once more. I am writing in a comfortable house, + and actually slept in one last night,--the first time I have + eaten or slept under a roof since the 3d of November; and on + the 10th I saw a lady again! + + I find General Napier has written to his brother about me. + Scindh has been given over to the Bombay army, so that Sir + Charles can't do anything for me, but still the kindness is + all the same. Unfortunately, the note reached me three days + after Sir Charles left the army to return to Scindh, or I + might have had the pleasure of seeing him and speaking to + him. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, MORADABAD, ROHILCUND, _April 29th, 1846_. + + It is time indeed to be getting under cover, for we have + been in the thick of the "hot winds." This sounds a very + mild word, but you should only just try it! Do you remember + ever holding your face over a stove when it was full of + fire? and the rush of hot air which choked you? Well, + something of that sort, of vast volume and momentum, blowing + what they call at sea "half a gale of wind," comes quietly + up, at first behind a wall of dust, and then with a roar + bursts upon you, scorching you, and shrivelling you up as if + you were "a rose that was plucked." It feels as if an + invisible, colorless flame was playing over your face and + limbs, scorching without burning you, and making your skin + and hair crackle and stiffen until you are covered with + "crackling" like a hot roast pig. This goes on day after day + from about eight or nine o'clock in the morning till sunset; + and, accompanied with the full power of the blazing sun of + India, produces an amount of heat and dryness almost + inconceivable. The only resource is to get behind a tatta + (or wet grass mat) hung up at one of the doors of the tent, + and to lie on the ground with as little motion as possible, + and endeavor to sleep or read it out. _Nunc veterum libris, + nunc somno et inertibus horis_,--I cannot go on, for the + "sweet forgetfulness" of the past is too much to expect! + To-day we have a new nuisance in the shape of a plague of + wood-lice; our camp is pitched in an old grove of + mango-trees, and is literally swarming with huge pale lice, + in numbers numberless. You cannot make a step without + slaying them, and they have already (noon) covered the whole + sides of the tents, chairs, beds, tables, and everything. + But one is really getting used to everything, and I hardly + expect to be _proud_ again. Our rest has been terribly + destroyed by this last month's marching, the usual hour for + the _reveille_ being two A. M., and this morning a quarter + to one!! and no power of quizzing can move our worthy major + to let us take it easily, though I don't scruple to tell him + that he has sold his shadow or his soul to the evil powers, + and forfeited the power of sleep, he is such a restless + animal! We breakfast at seven, or even a quarter past six, + constantly, and dine at seven P. M.; so one has a fair + opportunity of practising abstinence, as I rigidly abstain + from eating in the mean time, or drinking. After all, it is + very healthy weather, and I imagine there is less harm done + to the health in the hot winds than even in the cold + weather. I have never been so well in India. + + * * * * * + + NYNEE TAL, _May 14th, 1846_. + + I am writing from the last new Hill Station, discovered + about three years ago by an adventurous traveller, and now + containing forty houses and a bazaar. It is a "tal," or + lake, of about a mile in length, lying in a basin of the + mountains, about 6,200 feet above the sea; the hills rising + about 1,800 feet on all sides of it, and beautifully wooded + from their very summits down to the water's brink. How I got + here remains to be told. You will remember that I had + applied, some time ago, to be transferred to the 1st Bengal + European Fusileers. Well, after keeping me in suspense some + seven weeks, and sending me the whole way from Lahore to + Bareilly in April and May, I received notice that my + application was granted, and a civil request to go back + again. I had had enough of marching in the plains, and + travelling dak would have been madness for me, so I + determined on going up into the hills, and making my way + across the mountain ranges to Subathoo, where my regiment is + stationed. A good-natured civilian at Bareilly offered to + take me with him to this place, from whence I could make a + good start. We started on the morning of the 11th, and drove + to Rampoor, stayed there till midnight, and then set off for + the hills. By daylight we got to the edge of the "Terai," + the far-famed hotbed of fever and tigers, swamps and timber, + along the whole ridge of the Himalayas, stretching along the + plains at their feet in a belt of about twenty miles from + the Indus to the Burhampooter. Here we found horses awaiting + us, and, mounting at once, started for a ride of + twenty-seven miles before breakfast. The first part of the + "Terai" is merely a genuine Irish bog, and the oily, watery + ditches and starved-looking cows shout out "Fever," on all + sides of you. The last ten miles, to the foot of the hills, + is through a dense mass of ragged trees in all stages of + growth and decay, "horrida, inculta, hirsuta,"--moist, + unpleasant, and ugly. At length we reached the first low + woody ranges of the hills, and following the dry bed of a + mountain stream, by noon we doubled the last ridge, and + descended upon our lake. None of these hills are to be + compared in beauty with Scotland and Wales, though very + fine, and inexpressibly refreshing, almost _affecting_, + after the dead flat we have lived in so long. As soon as my + servants arrive, I start hence by myself, through an + unfrequented sea of vast mountains, by way of Landour, for + Mussoorie, to Simla and Subathoo. It is about 340 miles, and + will take me thirty-two or thirty-four days to accomplish. I + mean to take no pony, but trust that my old powers of + walking and endurance will revive in the mountain air. + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[2] At Sobraon. + +[3] Sir H. Lawrence, K. C. B. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + + FIRST BENGAL EUROPEAN FUSILEERS.--LAWRENCE ASYLUM.--APPOINTMENT + TO GUIDE CORPS. + + + SUBATHOO, _June 16th, 1846_. + + When I wrote to you last from Sireenuggur, I hoped to have + been able to reach this place by way of the hills and Simla; + but, before I got to Mussoorie, the early setting in of the + rains made it so difficult and unpleasant (and likely to be + dangerous) to get on, that, after spending two days there, I + rode down to Deyra Dhoon, and came dak through Saharunpoor + and Umbala to Kalka, at the foot of these hills, where I + found my beast awaiting my arrival, and mounted the + seventeen miles of hill at once. Here I am, at last, with my + own regiment, and with the prospect of being quiet for four + months. I am eighth Second Lieutenant; a distinguished + position (is it not?) at the age of five-and-twenty. The + campaign, I am sorry to say, did me no good in the way of + promotion, owing to my not having been "posted" permanently + before it commenced. + + * * * * * + + SUBATHOO, _July 3d, 1846_. + + I hope you will congratulate me on getting into my present + splendid corps, the 1st Fusileers, now, alas, a mere shadow + of what it was six months ago. We could only muster 256 men + under arms when we were inspected by Sir R. Gilbert on the + 1st; but, then, there was a most picturesque body of + convalescents present with their empty sleeves, pale faces, + and crutches, but looking proudly conscious of their good + conduct, and ready "to do it again." We are under much + stricter discipline in this corps, both officers and men, + and obliged to be orderly and submissive. No bad thing for + us either. I hold there is more real liberty in being under + a decent restraint than in absolute freedom from any check. + I have been much more reconciled to India since I joined + this regiment. It is pleasant to have white faces about one, + and hear one's own tongue spoken; and then, besides, there + is a home-loving feeling in this corps which I have never + met with in India. I believe we would each and all migrate + to England, if we had our own way. + + * * * * * + + _To his Father._ + + SIMLA, _Sept. 2d, 1846_. + + I came here on the 31st for a week, to stay with Major + Lawrence (now a Colonel and C. B.), who dined and slept with + me at Subathoo last week, and pressed me to come here. I am + nothing loth, as I like him amazingly, and value his + friendship very much, and pick up a great deal of + information as to India, and Indians black and white. He has + kindly offered to take me with him for a tour through + Jullunder Doab, and up to Jummoo, Rajah Gholab Singh's camp + and court. He says he can give or get me leave to accompany + him. My colonel says he won't give any one leave after the + 14th of this month. Which is right remains to be seen, but + I think you may calculate that the "Agent to the + Governor-General" will prevail, and I shall see Jummoo. + + I am now writing in his room with the incessant entrances + and exits of natives,--rajahs, princes, vakeels, &c. &c., + and officers civil and military; and the buzz of business + and confusion of tongues, black and white, learned and + unlearned, on all subjects, political, religious (at this + minute they are disputing what "the Church" means), and + military, so that I am tolerably puzzled. I have been taking + a tremendously long walk this morning about the hills and + valleys, with Mr. and Mrs. Currie, and enjoying the beauties + of Simla. + + * * * * * + + SIMLA, _Sept. 14th, 1846_. + + My original week at Simla has grown into a month, thanks to + Colonel Lawrence's pressing, and Colonel Orchard's (_my_ + colonel's) kindness. I should hardly like staying so long + with Colonel Lawrence, (especially as I live day and night + in the same room with him and his papers, regularly camp + fashion,) but that he wishes it, and I manage to give him a + slight helping hand by making _precis_ of his letters, and + copying confidential papers. He is amazingly kind, and tells + me all that is going on, initiating me into the mysteries of + "political" business, and thus giving me more knowledge of + things and persons Indian than I should learn in a year of + ordinary life, aye! or in three years either. This is a + great advantage to my ultimate prospects, of course + independently of the power he possesses of giving me a lift + in the world when I am of sufficient standing to hold any + appointment. + + He makes me work at Hindostanee, and has given me a lesson + or two in the use of the theodolite, and other surveying + instruments, to the end that I may get employed in the + Surveying Department, after two years of which he says "I + shall be fit for a Political." + + I have been very fortunate in many ways, more so than I had + any right to expect. If I were only nearer to you all, and + had any old friends about me, I should have nothing to + regret or wish for. It is _there_ that the shoe especially + pinches. All minor annoyances are easily got rid of, but one + _does_ find a wonderful lack of one's old friends and old + associations. Society is very different here from ours at + home, and different as it is I have seen very little of it. + Nor am I, with my previous habits, age, and education, the + person to feel this an indifferent matter; but on the + contrary, all the drawbacks of Indian existence come with + redoubled force from the greatness of the contrast. Still I + do not let these things annoy me, or weigh down my spirits, + but strive, by keeping up English habits, tastes, and + feelings, and looking forward to a run home, (thus having a + motive always in view,) to make the best of everything as it + occurs, and to act upon the principle, that mere outward + circumstances don't make a man's happiness. If I have one + feeling stronger than another, it is contempt for a "regular + Indian," a man who thinks it fine to adopt a totally + different set of habits and morals and fashions, until, in + forgetting that he is an Englishman, he usually forgets also + that he is a Christian and a gentleman. Such characters are + happily rare now, but there are many fragments of it on a + small scale, and always must be so, so long as the men who + are to support the name and power of England in Asia are + sent out here at an age when neither by education nor + reflection can they have learnt all or even a fraction of + what those words imply. It would be a happy thing for India + and for themselves if _all_ came out here at a more advanced + age than now, but _one_ alone breaking through the custom in + that respect made and provided, must not expect to escape + the usual fate, or at least the usual annoyances, of + innovators. + + I have enjoyed my visit here very much, and though I have + not sought them, have made one or two very pleasant + acquaintances, or improved them. I have been very little + out, and passed my time almost entirely with Colonel + Lawrence and his family, _i. e._, his brother and the two + sisters-in-law. Things are not looking well on the frontier. + Cashmere and the hill country wont submit to Gholab Singh, + to whom we gave them over, and have been thrashing his + troops and killing his ministers; and I expect October will + see an army assembled to frighten them into submission, or + interfere with a strong arm, as the case may be. + + We seem bound to see him established on the throne we carved + out for him, and it is our only chance of keeping peace and + order; though at the best he is such a villain, and so + detested, that I imagine it will be but a sorry state of + quietness:-- + + The torrent's smoothness ere it dash below. + +In a letter to his wife, written during this visit, Sir H. Lawrence +says:-- + + _Sept. 1st._--"I brought up with me from Subathoo a fine + young fellow, by name Hodson, son of the Archdeacon of + Stafford. He is now (10 P. M.) sleeping in my little + office-room, where I am writing. Thomason recommended him + to me, and I have seldom met so promising a young fellow. He + left the native branch of the army at the expense of some + steps, because he did not like the conduct of the Sepoys. He + was for four years with Dr. Arnold, and two in the sixth + form under his eye. He speaks most affectionately of him. I + will try to get leave for him for a month to accompany me to + Lahore and Jummoo in October.... I get a good deal of help + from Hodson, who works _willingly_ and _sensibly_. Perhaps + you may meet the family at Lichfield." + + LAHORE, _October 14th, 1846_. + + As I hoped when I wrote last, I am again writing from the + capital of the "Singhs," but, alas for the "lions," their + tails are very much down in the world since this time last + year, when the "fierce and formidable army" assembled to + invade our tempting provinces. Nearly half the garrison has + marched across the Ravee, and not more than 5,000 or 6,000 + British troops now hold the far-famed capital of Runjeet + Singh. + + You must not be alarmed by the accounts you will see in the + papers by this mail of the advance of two forces from Lahore + and Jullunder towards Jummoo. They are not to take any + active part in the operations of Gholab Singh for the + recovery of Cashmere from the rebellious Sheikh Imaumoodeen; + our troops are to hold the Maharaja's country for him while + he advances with his whole disposable force, augmented by a + Sikh auxiliary army. + + It is probable that the Sheikh will give in without + fighting as soon as he hears the preparations made by both + powers for his coercion. Indeed, a letter has arrived from + Cashmere to say he _has_ given in; but he is a wily fellow, + and I mightily distrust him. I only know if _I_ was in + Cashmere with my army at my back, _I_ would not give in as + long as a man was left to pull a trigger! The Agent (Colonel + Lawrence) and I start to-morrow evening, going seventy miles + the first day, and hope to reach Bhimbur, at the foot of the + hills, on the 17th, thence to go up and join the Maharaja, + and accompany his army to Cashmere. If he fights we shall + see the fun; if not, we are to accompany him and keep him + from excesses and injustice in the valley, and return here, + I fancy, in about a month or six weeks. Of course, in event + of the two armies coming to blows, it will probably be some + time longer ere we return. I am delighted at the thoughts of + seeing Cashmere, and am gaining great advantage from being + with these "politicals" in the way of learning the + languages, and method of governing the natives. I have been + hard at work day and night for some time now, writing for + Colonel Lawrence. I left Subathoo on the 1st, and after a + ride of some twenty miles through the hills, joined Colonel + Lawrence and Mr. Christian, and after a shake-down in a + little mud bungalow, and an amusing dinner, (served up in + two brass basins, standing on a bed,) and a breakfast to + match, we rode down to Roopur, on the Sutlej. Here we took + boat, and floated down the river to Ferozepoor, and came + across to Lahore during the night in a capital barouche + belonging to the Ranee, with relays of horses and an escort + of cavalry. + + * * * * * + + THANNA, AT THE FOOT OF THE PASS INTO CASHMERE, _Oct. + 26th, 1846_. + + Our tent is pitched on the top of a little spur from the + mountain side, and beneath us lie, in quaint picturesque + confusion, scattered over the valley and the little + staircase-like rice-fields, the mingled hosts of Lahore and + Jummoo. The spare stalwart Sikh, with his grizzled beard and + blue turban of the scantest dimensions, side by side with + the huge-limbed Affghan, with voluminous headgear and + many-colored garments. The proud Brahmin in the same ranks + with the fierce "Children of the Faithful;" the little + active Hillman; the diminutive, sturdy, platter-faced + Ghoorka, and the slight-made Hindostanee, collected in the + same tents, and all alike clothed in a caricature of the + British uniform. I have been very much interested and amused + by this march with a native army, so different from our own + proceedings and our own military power,--albeit the British + army will soon be as varied in its composition. + + I have seen a great deal of the native Sirdars or chiefs, + especially Tej Singh who commanded the Sikh forces in the + war, and of the Maharaja. The former a small, spare little + man, marked with the smallpox, and with a thin and scanty + beard, but sharp and intelligent, and by his own account _a + hero_. The Maharaja is a fine, tall, portly man, with a + splendid expressive face, and most gentlemanly, pleasing + manner, and fine-toned voice,--altogether the most pleasing + Asiatic I have seen,--to all appearance the gentlest of the + gentle, and the most sincere and truthful character in the + world; and in his habits he is certainly exemplary; but he + is the cleverest hypocrite in the world; as sharp and acute + as possible, devoured by avarice and ambition, and when + roused, horribly cruel. This latter accusation he rebuts, by + alleging the necessity of the case and the ferocity of those + he has to deal with. To us, however, his fondness for + flaying men alive, cutting off their noses and ears and + hands, &c., savors _rather_ of the inexcusable. He was + accused of having flayed 12,000 men, which he indignantly + asserted was a monstrous calumny, as he only skinned + _three_; afterwards he confessed to _three hundred_! Yet he + is not a bit worse, and in many ways infinitely better, than + most native princes. Lawrence doubts whether _one_ could be + found with fewer faults, if placed in similar circumstances. + Avitabile, to the disgrace of his European blood, was far + more cruel. The stories current in the Punjaub of his + abominations are horrible. The costumes of these chiefs + would delight you: they never make a mistake in colors, and + the effect is always good, however bright they may be. This + force is (as I told you) moving up to turn the Sheikh + Imaumoodeen, the rebellious vassal of the Lahore Government, + out of Cashmere, in virtue of the treaty ceding it to Gholab + Singh. Up to yesterday, I expected it would be a fight, but + yesterday the Sheikh sent letters to say he was sorry and + repentful, and was on his way to tender his submission. So + we wait here to receive him. This will not, however, prevent + my visit to the valley, as Colonel Lawrence intends to + accompany the Maharaja to pacify and take possession. + + It is very cold here, though not much above 5,000 feet above + the sea. + + * * * * * + + _To his Father._ + + SHUPYEN, IN CASHMERE, _Nov. 6th, 1846_. + + I write a hurried line to announce my safe arrival in the + valley. On the 1st instant we got hold of the rebellious + Sheikh, and sent him down to the plains; and yesterday, + Colonel Lawrence, Captain Browne, and myself, rode into the + valley, amid the acclamations of an admiring population--of + beggars! I am writing at sunrise in a little tent, and in + spite of two coats and waistcoats, I am nearly "friz." We + crossed the Pir Punjal Pass on the 4th, 12,000 feet above + the sea, with snow all around us, and slept on this side in + an old serai; I say _slept_, because we went to bed; but + sleeping was out of the question, from the cold and uproar + of all our followers and their horses, crowded into a + court-yard thirty feet square, horses and men quarrelling + and yelling all night long. The view from the top of the + Pass was very fine, but the wind far too high to take more + than a peep of it without losing one's eyes; but the road + from Thanna to the summit was most lovely the whole way, + winding up a glen wooded magnificently, and the rocks + towering above us on all sides; the trees were all in their + varied autumn dress, surmounted by forests of pine; + altogether, I never saw so grand a scene. As the Sheikh's + submission has cut the Gordian knot of politics here, we + shall only stay a few days to see the valley, and install + the Maharaja, (who is following us with his force by slow + stages,) and then rush back to Lahore and Subathoo. + + This is said to be the largest town but three in the valley. + It is a poverty-stricken, scattered hamlet of mud houses + with wooden roofs, the upper half being generally rough open + lattice-work or railing, with alternate supports of unbaked + bricks; low mud inclosures, and open waste spaces between, + dedicated to dogs and dunghills. The whole is thickly grown + over with fine apple and walnut trees, the staple fruits + (with the grape) of the valley, and the food of the people. + _They_ are a poor wretched set, only good for beasts of + burden,--and certainly they can carry a vast load,--their + dress, both men and women, being a loose, wide-sleeved + smock-frock of dirty sackcloth-looking woollen. The men wear + a dirty skullcap on their shaven "nobs," and the women a + crimson machine, like a flower-pot saucer inverted, from + which depends a veil or cloth of the same texture as the + frock; legs and feet clothed in their native dirt. The women + are atrociously ugly, and screech like the witches in + _Macbeth_,--so much so, that when the Agent asked me to give + them a rupee or two, I felt it my duty to refuse, firmly but + respectfully, on the ground that it would be encouraging + ugliness! I fancy the climate and the soil are unrivalled, + but years of poverty and oppression have reduced to a nation + of beggars what ought to be a Paradise. We go hence after + breakfast to Islumabad, at the eastern end of the valley; + and spend a day or two in looking about us, and floating + down the river to Cashmere itself, by which time our + "prince" will have arrived. I am the luckiest dog unhung to + have actually got into Cashmere. I fancy I am the first + officer of our army who has been here, save the few who have + come officially. These delightful breezes are most + invigorating. I only wish you could all enjoy these travels + with me. I expect to be back at Subathoo by the 1st of + December. + +In a letter to my father about this time, Mr. Thomason says:-- + +"I am very glad to observe that such an intimacy has sprung up between +Colonel Lawrence and your William. He could not be under better +direction. + +"Colonel Lawrence has evidently taken him entirely into his +confidence, which cannot but be of the greatest use to him in his +future career. He will have opportunities of observation and +instruction now, which very few possess after a long period of +service. To be selected, too, as his confidant by a man of Colonel +Lawrence's stamp, is no small feather in the cap of any young man. He +stands deservedly high also in the esteem of all who know him; and if +it please God to spare his life and give him health, his prospects are +as good as any man's can be in this country." + +Colonel Lawrence having discovered that my brother could _work_, was +by no means disposed to let him remain without full occupation, as his +next letter will show:-- + + SUBATHOO, _April 1st, 1847_. + + I am wonderfully well and flourishing, and have lots to do. + Lawrence has made me undertake the secretaryship of the new + Asylum for European Children, building some ten miles hence, + which will give me volumes of correspondence, and leagues, + nay latitudes of riding. Nevertheless, it is well, and it is + a good work. The responsibility will be great, as a + committee of management, on an average three hundred miles + apart, are rather nominal in their supervision of things. + + SUBATHOO, _April 1st, 1847_. + + If my locomotive instinct has been brought into play in + India, as you suggest, my constructive organs are likely to + have their share of exercise. I have the entire direction + and arrangement of the new Hill Asylum on my hands just now. + It is seven miles hence, of mountain roads, and what with + going and coming, planning, instructing, and supervising, my + time is pretty well occupied, to say nothing of my regiment, + and private affairs. Building a house in India is a + different affair from one's previous experiences. You begin + from the forest and the quarry, have to get lime burnt, + trees cut down, bricks made, planks sawn up, the ground got + ready, and then watch the work foot by foot,--showing this + "nigger" how to lay his bricks, another the proper + proportions of a beam, another the construction of a door, + and to the several artisans the mysteries of a screw, a + nail, and a hinge. You cannot say to a man, "Make me a wall + or a door," but you must with your own hands measure out his + work, teach him to saw away here, to plane there, or drive + such a nail, or insinuate such another suspicion of glue. + And when it comes to be considered that this is altogether + new work to me, and has to be excuded by cogitation on the + spot, so as to give an answer to every inquirer, you may + understand the amount of personal exertion and attention + required for the work. + + I have the sole direction and control of nearly four hundred + and fifty workmen, including paying them, keeping accounts, + drawing plans, and everything. I have to get earth dug for + bricks, see the moulds made and watch the progress of them + till the kiln is full, get wood for the kiln, and direct the + lighting of the same, and finally provide a goat to + sacrifice to the demon who is supposed to turn the bricks + red! Then I must get bamboos and grass cut for thatching, + and string _made_ for the purpose; send about the hills for + sand for mortar, and limestone to burn, see it mixed and + prepared, and then show the niggers how to use it. Then the + whole of the wood-work must be set out and made under one's + own eye, and a lump of iron brought from the mine to be + wrought (also under one's direction) into nails and screws, + before a single door can be set up; and when to all this is + added the difficulty of getting hands (I mean in the hills), + and the bother of watching the idlest and most cunning race + on earth, you may suppose my "unpaid magistracy" is no + sinecure. I am not exaggerating or indeed telling half the + difficulty, for fear you should think the whole a romance. + You will naturally ask how I learnt all these trades. I can + only say that you can't be more astonished than I am myself, + and can only satisfy you by the theory that "necessity is + the mother of invention." I am seldom able to sit down from + sunrise to sunset, when I get a hasty dinner, and am then + only too glad to sleep off the effects of the day. How I + have escaped fever during the last month I cannot think, as + it has been terribly hot in the sun, even in the hills, and + I have lived in the blaze of it pretty constantly. Colonel + Lawrence seems determined I shall have nothing to stop me, + for his invariable reply to every question is, "Act on your + own judgment;" "Do what you think right;" "I give you _carte + blanche_ to act in my name, and draw on my funds," and so + forth. + + Are you aware of the nature of the institution? It was + started, in idea, by Colonel Lawrence some two or three + years ago, and a sufficient sum of money for a commencement + having been raised, he charged me with the erection of the + necessary buildings, and the organization and setting in + motion of the great machine which is to regenerate and save + from moral and physical degradation, sickness, and death, + the children of the British soldiers serving in India. The + object is to teach them all things useful, while you give + them the advantage of a healthy climate, removed from the + evil influence of a barrack-room. The children are to remain + in the Asylum until their parents return to England, or till + old enough to join the ranks, or be otherwise provided for. + + Another drag upon my hands is the care of a small European + boy, who was lately found up in Cabul, and is supposed to be + the son of some soldier of the destroyed army. He has been + brought up as a Mussulman, and made to believe his father + was such, and is a very bigot. Colonel Lawrence sent him to + me from Lahore, but forgot to write about him, so I know no + more of him than I have seen in the newspapers, and have no + idea what to do with him, or where he is to go. He is rather + a nuisance, and I shall be glad when he goes, as there is + little but his odd fate to interest one in him; and I have + considerable doubts as to his genuine origin. He is more + like a half-caste than an "European." Our communication is + brief, as he speaks but little Hindostanee, and I less + Persian. The Asylum is a much more interesting occupation, + as, independently of its object, there is a pleasure in + covering a fine mountain with buildings of one's own + designing. + +A few days later he writes:-- + + My last few days at the Asylum were enlivened by the arrival + of Mrs. George Lawrence, whose tent was pitched close to + mine, on the hill-top. She is a great acquisition in a + forest life, and a very nice person,--the wife of the + Captain Lawrence who was one of the Cabul prisoners. She is + to be superintendress until the arrival of the future man + from England. I have fourteen little girls to take care of, + by the same token, and listen to the grumblings of their + nurses. In short, I don't know myself, and that is the long + and short of it. I am going to Simla for a day or two, to + see Mr. Thomason. + +And again, to his brother:-- + + The state of things is so provokingly quiet and placid, that + there seems but small chance of our being called upon for + another rush across country (called a "forced march"), like + the one of December, 1845; and one is obliged to take to + anything that offers, to avoid the "taedium vitae" which the + want of employment engenders in this "lovely country," in + those, at least, who have not learnt to exist in the + philosophical medium of brandy and cheroots. Did I tell you, + by-the-bye, that I abjured tobacco when I left England, and + that I have never been tempted, by even a night "al fresco," + to resume the delusive habit? Nor have I told you (because I + despaired of your believing it) that I have declined from + the paths of virtue in respect to beer also, these two years + past, seldom or never even tasting that once idolized + stimulant!! It has not been caused alone by a love of + eccentricity, but by the very sensitive state of my inner + man, (achieved in India,) which obliges me to live by rule. + This is all very edifying, no doubt, to _you_; to me it is + especially so, for I believe if I get on well in India, it + will be owing, physically speaking, to my _digestion_. + + SUBATHOO, _June 18th, 1847_. + + I am getting on famously at the Asylum just now, and have + succeeded in getting the children under cover before the + rains. I have narrowly escaped a bad fever through overwork + in the sun, but, by taking it in time, I got right again. + The weather has since taken a turn, and become much cooler, + besides which my principal anxiety is over for the season. I + have certainly had a benefit of work, both civil and + literary, for the Institution, and since Colonel Lawrence + put an advertisement in the papers, desiring all anxious + persons to apply to me, I have had enough on my hands. It is + all very well, but interferes with my reading no little; and + I am sure to get more kicks than thanks for my pains from an + ungrateful and undiscerning public. However, as long as + Colonel Lawrence leaves everything so completely in my + hands, and trusts so implicitly to my skill and honesty, it + would be a shame not to work "_un_-like a nigger." + + It is intended that the children should remain in the + Institution until they are eighteen years of age, if their + fathers be alive, and until somehow or other provided for, + should they be orphans. The majority of the boys will, of + course, become soldiers; but my belief is, that having been + brought up in the delightful climate of the Himalaya, they + will, after ten or fifteen years, settle down in the various + stations and slightly elevated valleys in these hills, as + traders and cultivators, and form the nucleus of the first + British colony in India. My object is to give them English + habits from the first, which they have in most cases to + learn, from being brought up by native nurses from infancy. + Part of the scheme is to make the Institution support + itself, and I am very shortly going to start a farm-yard. I + have already got a fine large garden in full swing; and here + you may see French beans, cabbages, strawberry plants, and + fine potatoes (free from disease). I steadfastly refuse the + slightest dash of color in admitting children. People may + call this illiberal, if they please; the answer is obvious. + Half-castes stand the climate of the plains too well to need + a hill sanitorium, and by mixing them with English children + you corrupt those whom you wish to benefit. The little boy + who was lately redeemed from Cabul, and whom Colonel + Lawrence consigned to my care, is the plague of my + existence. He has the thoroughly lying, deceitful habits, + and all the dirt, of the Affghan races, and not a single + point of interest to counterbalance them. + + * * * * * + + SUBATHOO, _August, 1847_. + + I have some hopes, though but faint ones, of being relieved + from the necessity of a move to Cawnpore, [whither his + regiment had been ordered,] by obtaining a berth under + Colonel Lawrence. I know that he has asked for me, and, I + believe, for an appointment which would please me more than + any other he could find, as being one of the most + confidential nature, and involving constant locomotion, and + plenty of work both for head, nerve, and body. But I must + not be sanguine, as we have already a large proportion of + officers away from the regiment, and I am a young soldier, + though, alas! growing grievously old in years. + +The appointment alluded to was to the "Corps of Guides," then recently +organized by Colonel Lawrence for service in the Punjaub. While this +question, however, was still pending, there seemed a prospect of +Lieut. Hodson's succeeding to the adjutancy of his regiment, and +Colonel Lawrence, as will be seen from the subjoined letter, +recommended his accepting it, if offered:-- + + "SIMLA, _Sept. 11th_. + + "MY DEAR HODSON,--I have spoken to the Governor-General + about you, who at once replied, 'Let him take the + adjutancy.' He wishes you well, but is puzzled by the + absentee question. We are all, moreover, agreed on the + usefulness to yourself of being employed for a time as + adjutant to a regiment. There are always slips, but I know + of no man of double or treble your standing who has so good + a prospect before him. Favor and partiality do occasionally + give a man a lift, but depend upon it that _his_ is the best + chance in the long run who helps himself. So far you have + done this manfully, and you have reason to be proud of being + selected at one time for three different appointments by + three different men.[4] Don't however, be too proud. Learn + your duties thoroughly. Continue to study two or three hours + a day; not to pass in a hurry, but that you may do so two or + three years hence with _eclat_. Take advantage of Becher's + being at Kussowlee to learn something of surveying. All + knowledge is useful; but to a soldier, or official of any + sort in India, I know no branch of knowledge which so well + repays the student. + + "In Oriental phrase, pray consider that much is said in this + hurried scrawl, and believe that I shall watch your career + with warm interest. + + "I am, very sincerely yours, + "H. M. LAWRENCE." + + +The expected vacancy, however, did not occur, and Colonel Lawrence +accordingly renewed his application for my brother's services in the +Punjaub, and, as will be seen, with success. In the beginning of +October he writes:-- + + I have every reason to expect that before many days I shall + be gazetted as attached to the Guide Corps. The immediate + result of my appointment will be a speedy departure to + Lahore with Colonel Lawrence, who returns there to arrange + matters before going home. + +And on the 16th:-- + + You will, I am sure, rejoice with me at my unprecedented + good fortune in being appointed to a responsible and + honorable post, almost before, by the rules of the service, + I am entitled to take charge of a company of Sepoys. I shall + even be better off than I thought; instead of merely "doing + duty" with the Guide Corps, I am to be the second in + command. + +The next chapter will show how well Lieut. Hodson justified Colonel +Lawrence's selection of him for so responsible a command, one which +the course of events made far more important than could then have +been foreseen. It was in this that he laid the foundations of his +reputation as an "unequalled partisan leader," and acquired his +experience of the Sikhs, and extraordinary influence over them. + +FOOTNOTE: + +[4] At this very juncture, the Adjutant-General of the army had also +applied for Lieut. Hodson. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + + EMPLOYMENT IN THE PUNJAUB AS SECOND IN COMMAND OF THE CORPS + OF GUIDES, AND ALSO AS ASSISTANT TO THE RESIDENT AT LAHORE. + + +_From October, 1847, during the Campaign of 1848-9, to the Annexation +of the Punjaub in March, 1849._ + + CAMP, KUSSOOR, _Nov. 15th, 1847_. + + I almost forget the many events that have happened since I + wrote last. I believe I was "at home" in my snug little + cottage in Subathoo, and now I am in a high queer-looking + native house among the ruins of this old stronghold of the + Pathans; with orders "to make a good road from Lahore to the + Sutlej, distance forty miles," in as brief a space as + possible. On the willing-to-be-generally-useful principle + this is all very well, and one gets used to turning one's + hand to everything, but certainly (but for "circumstances + over which I had no control") I always labored under the + impression that I knew nothing at all about the matter. + However, Colonel Lawrence walked into my room promiscuously + one morning, and said, "Oh, Hodson, we have agreed that you + must take in hand the road to Ferozepoor,--you can start in + a day or two;" and _here I am_. Well, I have galloped across + the country hither and thither, and peered into distances + with telescopes, and inquired curiously into abstruse (and + obtuse) angles, rattled Gunter's chains, and consulted + compasses and theodolites, till I have an idea of a road + that will astonish the natives not a little. Last night I + was up half the night, looking out for fires which I had + ordered to be lighted in sundry places along the line of the + Sutlej at a fixed hour, that I might find the nearest point. + This morning, I had a grand assembly of village "punches," + to discuss with them the propriety of furnishing able-bodied + men for the work. By a little artful persuasion, I succeeded + in raising 700 from a small district, and am going onwards + to hold another such "county meeting" to-morrow. The mode + and fashion that has always obtained in public works under + native governments, has been to give an order to seize _all_ + the inhabitants, and make them work,--_and not pay them + then_. These gentry, therefore, have been so bullied by + their Sikh masters, that they hardly believe my offers of + ready-money payments. My predecessor, an artillery officer, + who came here on the same errand, was turned off for + resorting to violent measures in his anxiety to get hold of + workmen, having hung some of the head men up by the heels to + trees _till they were convinced_. He got no good (nor hands + either) by his dodge. So I was sent here on the other + persuasion, and you will be glad to hear, for the credit of + the family, that I am gammoning the dear old punches most + deliciously. They'd give me anything, bless their innocent + hearts! when I get under the village tree with them, or by + the village well, and discourse eloquently on the blessing + to society of having destroyed the Sikhs, and on the + lightness of their land-tax. I hope to be relieved in a + month, and go up to Peshawur to join "the Guides," for this + is cruelly hard work, and I have had enough for one year of + native work-people. Besides, I am not strong yet, and have + a horrid cold. I would give anything to be able to sit down + and read a book quietly, a luxury I have not enjoyed for + many a long day. Colonel Lawrence starts for England on the + 30th for two years. I hope you will contrive to see him, and + make his acquaintance. Sir F. Currie is to be his successor + during his absence. + + _December 1st._ + + I have been at Lahore to receive Colonel Lawrence's parting + instructions, and say good-bye to him, poor fellow. He is a + genuinely kind-hearted mortal, and has been a brother to me + ever since I knew him. I hope to see him back in two years, + invigorated and renewed, to carry out the good work which he + has so nobly begun. + + * * * * * + + _To his Sister._ + + CAMP, KUSSOOR, _Dec. 15th, 1847_. + + Your letter met me on my road two days ago, and emerged from + the folds of a Sikh horseman's turban, to my great delight. + I got off my horse, and walked along, driving him before me + till I had read the packet. You must not conclude, because I + am writing to you a second time from this place, that I have + been here ever since I first commenced operations in these + parts. I have been twice to Lahore, and several times to + various intermediate and more distant places, since then. In + short, you may give up all idea of being able to imagine + where I may be at any given time. My work has progressed + considerably. In three weeks I have collected and got into + working order upwards of a thousand most unwilling + laborers, surveyed and marked out some twenty miles of road + through a desert and forest, and made a very large piece of + it. I am happy to say I am to be relieved in a day or two, + and sent to survey another district. I have had one or two + visitors the last few days, and therefore not been so lonely + as usual; but my time has been even more than ever occupied. + My duties are nearly as various as there are hours in the + day; at one time digging a trench, at another time + investigating breaches of the peace. I am a sort of justice + of the peace for general purposes, and have to listen to and + inquire into complaints, and send cases which I think worthy + of it for trial to Lahore. I caught as neat a case of + robbing and murder the other day as ever graced Stafford + Assizes; to say nothing of endless modes of theft, more or + less open, according to the wealth or power of the stealer. + This is the most remarkable scene of ruin I have met with + for many a long day; erst, a nest of the abodes of wealthy + Pathan nobles, and now a desert tract, of many miles in + extent, covered with ruins, with here and there a dome, or + cupola, or minaret, to mark what has once been. + + I am happy to say that I have succeeded in obtaining a + respite on Sundays. Hitherto, all the works I have had in + hand have gone on the same every day, and consequently one's + annoyance and responsibility continued equally on Sundays. + This is happily put an end to, and I shall have one day's + rest a week at least, to say nothing of higher + considerations. An order on the subject was issued six + months ago, but great difficulties were in the way of its + execution. + + CAMP, DEENANUGGUR, _Jan. 15th, 1848_. + + Here I am off again like a steam-engine, calling at a series + of stations, puffing and panting, hither and thither, never + resting, ever starting; now in a cutting, now in a tunnel; + first in a field, next on a hill: thus passes day after day, + week after week, a great deal of work going through one's + hands, and yet one can give very little account of one's + self at the end of it. At present I am moving rapidly along + the banks of a small canal which traverses the Doab, between + the Ravee and Beas rivers, for purposes of irrigation; + accompanying Major Napier,[5] to whom the prosecution of all + public improvements throughout the Land of the Five Rivers + belongs. We (the "Woods and Forests" of the day) have nearly + reached the point where the river debouches from the hills, + and have put up for the day in a little garden-house of + Runjeet Singh's, in the midst of a lovely grove of great + extent, through whose dark-green boughs we have a splendid + panorama of the snowy range to back our horizon. We have + great projects of extending the canal by various branches to + feed and fertilize the whole extent of the Doab, which wants + nothing but water to make it a garden, so fertile is the + soil. We have come along a strip of beautiful country, + richly cultivated, lying along the banks of this life-giving + little watercourse, and the weather is perfect, so I am as + happy as mere externals can make one. Certainly we whose lot + has fallen on this side of India, are much to be envied. + Here, all day long, one rides about, clothed as warmly, and + even more so, than in England at this season, enjoying the + bright clear sunshine, and never troubled with thinking of + the sun; whilst at Calcutta they are running into their + houses at nine o'clock to avoid the heat of the day! I + imagine two years in Calcutta would be more _wearing_ than + ten up here; by the same token, I have achieved the + respectable weight of eleven stone ten pounds, being an + increase of seventeen pounds since July. May my shadow never + be less! + + I live from the arrival of one mail in expectation of the + next. I had meant to have written a long series of + despatches for this opportunity, and have asked you to do + some commissions for me, but I must postpone it now to + another time, as Major Napier has lots of work for me. I + want a pair of thick blankets; mine were plundered at + Ferozeshah, and I have always mourned over them since, when + cold nights and long marches come together. In these far + countries it is next to impossible to get anything decent. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, RAJA KE BAGH, _Jan. 29th, 1848_. + + For some days I was staying in, and intend returning again + to, a fine picturesque old castle or fort built by the + Emperor Shahjehan. Its lofty walls, with their turrets and + battlements, inclose a quadrangle of the size of the great + court of Trinity, while from the centre rises a dark mass of + buildings three stories high, forming the keep; presenting + externally four blank walls pierced with loopholes, but + within, arches and pillars and galleries, with an open space + in the centre, in which they all face. The summit rises + sixty-four feet, which, in addition to the great elevation + of the mound on which the castle stands, gives a noble view + of mountain, river, and plain, covered with the finest + timber and green with young corn; the whole backed by range + on range, peak after peak, of dazzling snow. Another, nearly + similar, lies about ten miles to the north, and I am now + "pitched" at the foot of a third to the west; all monuments + of the taste and grandeur of the Mogul Emperors. That Goth, + Runjeet Singh, and his followers have as much to answer for + in their way, as Cromwell and his crop-eared scoundrels in + England and Ireland. They seem only to have conquered to + destroy,--every public work, every castle, road, serai, or + avenue, has been destroyed; the finest mosques turned into + powder magazines and stables, the gardens into cantonments, + and the fields into deserts. I had a pretty specimen the + other day of the way in which things have been managed here. + I was desired to examine into, and report on, the accounts + of revenue collected hitherto in 180 villages along the + "Shah Nahr," or Royal Canal. By a convenient mixture of + coaxing and threats, compliment and invective, a return was + at last effected, by which it appeared that in ordinary + cases about one half the revenue reached the treasury, in + some one third, and in one district _nothing_! To my great + amusement, when I came to this point, the gallant collector + (a long-bearded old Sikh) quietly remarked,--"Yes, Sahib, + this was indeed a great place for us entirely." I said, + "Yes, you villain, you gentry grew fat on robbing your + master." "Don't call it robbing," he said; "I assure you I + wouldn't be dishonest for the world. I never took more than + my predecessors did before me." About the most _naive_ + definition of honesty I have had the luck to meet with. I + fancy our visit to these nooks and corners of the Punjaub + has added some 50,000_l._ a year to the revenue. My present + _role_ is to survey a part of the country lying along the + left bank of the Ravee and below the hills, and I am daily + and all day at work with compasses and chain, pen and + pencil, following streams, diving into valleys, burrowing + into hills, to complete my work. I need hardly remark, that + having never attempted anything of the kind hitherto, it is + bothering at first. But one is compelled to be patient under + this sort of insult, and I should not be surprised any day + to be told to build a ship, compose a code of laws, or hold + assizes;--in fact, 'tis the way in India; every one has to + teach himself his work, and do it at the same time; if I go + on learning new trades as fast during the remainder of my + career as I have done at its commencement, I shall have to + retire as a Jacksonian professor at least, when "my dog has + had his day." Well! I have fairly beaten the cold this + time,--I turned back one side of the tent, and had a big + fire lighted outside, protected from draughts by a canvas + screen, and the whole tent is now in a jolly glow; a gypsy + light reflected on the trees around, and on the two tall + picturesque Affghans who, seated cross-legged on each side + of the fire, either replenish it with sticks, fan it into a + flame, or watch my pen with the large, black, inquisitive + eye of a dog looking out for a crust. + + They make much better servants for wandering folks like + myself than the Hindostanee servant-tribe, have fewer or no + prejudices, (save against clean water,) and trudge along the + livelong day as merrily as if life was a joke to them, + instead of the dull heavy reality it is.[6] + + + _Feb. 27th, 1848._ + + I really have very little to tell you of my new Guide Corps + duties from the somewhat strange fact that I have never yet + actually entered upon them; this will soon come to an end, + however, as I have directions to proceed to Peshawur as soon + as the survey I have been at work on is completed. The grand + object of the corps is to train a body of men in peace to be + efficient in war; to be not only acquainted with localities, + roads, rivers, hills, ferries, and passes, but have a good + idea of the produce and supplies available in any part of + the country; to give _accurate_ information, not running + open-mouthed to say that 10,000 horsemen and a thousand guns + are coming, (in true native style,) but to stop to see + whether it may not be really only a common cart and a few + wild horsemen who are kicking up all the dust; to call + twenty-five by its right name, and not say _fifty_ for + short, as most natives do. This of course wants a great deal + of careful instruction and attention. Beyond this, the + officers should give a tolerably correct sketch and report + of any country through which they may pass, be _au fait_ at + routes and means of feeding troops, and above all (and here + you come close upon practical duties) keep an eye on the + doings "of the neighbors" and the state of the country, so + as to be able to give such information as may lead to any + outbreak being nipped in the bud. This is the _theory_, + what the _practice_ may be I'll tell you some day or other + when I know. Hitherto I have been making myself generally + useful under the chief engineer, and learning to survey. One + has to turn one's hand to everything if one wishes to get + on. + + Meanwhile, I am busily collecting every species of + information about the people and the land they live in. Hard + work and fatigue, of course, but a splendid opening and + opportunity for making one's self known and _necessary_. + + * * * * * + + DEENANUGGUR, _March 14th, 1848_. + + The night your letter reached me, Napier (our chief + engineer) and I were encamped on a spur of grass land + separating two streams of the river "Chukkir," and had been + so for some days. That evening it began to rain, (if a + sluice of water, apparently _struck down from the heavens_ + by a flood of the fiercest lightning, can be called so,) and + for thirty-six hours the torrent descended without + intermission, as only Asiatic storms can descend. At length + a pause ensued, and the sky was visible, and we emerged from + our sodden tents only to be threatened with water in a worse + form. The hills, valleys, and mountains began to send down + to us what they had so plentifully received from above, and + the hitherto quiet stream, whose wide stony channel + surrounded us, was in a single hour a powerful torrent, + tearing over the country as if to prove what it could do. By + one of the singular freaks common to all tropical rivers, it + dammed up one of its own widest outlets by the quantity of + stones which it brought along with it, and came tearing down + the one nearest to us. Across this, not a hundred yards + from our tents, we had just built a powerful breakwater some + sixteen feet wide, but the water quietly walked over, under, + and round it; roared, groaned, stormed, and swelled angrily + for two hours, and our breakwater was a "thing of history;" + meantime, we were gradually getting more and more surrounded + with water, it rose and rose until only four inches were + wanting to set us well afloat. The pegs of my tent-ropes + were undermined, and a notice to quit was as plainly written + on the face of the water as ever on a legal process. There + was but one way of escape, so mustering the whole of a + neighboring village, we loaded all our valuables and + movables on their backs, and made a dash at the hamlet. Once + having succeeded in turning us out, the valiant Chukkir was + content, and we slept in our tents as usual, but not + without, as it turned out, considerable risk of finding + ourselves landed in some unknown field on waking. + + When this flood subsided, it appeared that the scene of our + unfortunate dam had become the deepest part of the channel, + and the old course choked with stones and boulders which you + and I couldn't lift in a week of Sundays. Is not this an + incident? + + Since I wrote last, in consequence of representations I sent + to head-quarters as to the amount of plundering going on, a + large party of horse, with one of the principal chiefs, was + sent out here, with directions to act on the information I + gave them. We have, accordingly, had a robber-hunt on a + large and tolerably successful scale. Numbers have been + caught. One shot _pour encourager les autres_, and we have + traces of others, so that my quiet practice (originally for + my own amusement and information) has been very useful to + the State. I found out the greatest part of it by sending + clever fellows disguised as "faqueers" (you know what they + are, I think;--religious beggars) to the different villages + to talk to the people and learn their doings. Some of the + stories of Sikh violence, cruelty, and treachery which I + have picked up are almost beyond belief. The indifference of + these people to human life is something appalling. I could + hardly get them to give a thought or attempt an inquiry as + to the identity of a man whom I found dead, evidently by + violence, by the roadside yesterday morning; and they were + horrified at the thought of tying up or confining a sacred + ox, who had gored his _thirteenth_ man the evening before + last! They told me plainly that no one had a right to + complain of being hurt by so venerable a beast. + + In such pursuits, combined with surveying, my time passes + away tolerably well. I am alone again, Napier having gone to + Lahore; but this is a sweet place, and I am staying in a + pleasant summer-house of Runjeet Singh's, in the midst of a + fine garden, or grove of mango and orange trees. + + * * * * * + + + CAMP ON RAVEE, _March 29th, 1848_. + + Just as I had completed my somewhat lengthy reply to your + question, I was interrupted by a camel-rider, who had come + in hot haste with a letter from Sir F. Currie, at Lahore, + with the most agreeable intelligence in the world,--_voila_. + + "MY DEAR MR. HODSON,--Pray knock off your present work, and + come into Lahore as quickly as you can. + + "I want to send you with Mr. Agnew to Mooltan. Mr. Agnew + starts immediately with your acquaintance, Sirdah Sumshere + Singh, to assume the government of that province, Moolraj + having sent in his resignation of the Nizamut. Lieutenant + Becher is to be Agnew's permanent assistant, but he cannot + join just now, and I wish you to go with Agnew. It is an + _important mission_, and one that, I think, you will like to + be employed in. When relieved by Becher, you will join the + Guides at Lahore, and be employed also as assistant to the + Resident. The sooner you come the better. + + "Yours, sincerely, + "F. CURRIE." + + The last line of Sir Frederick's letter was not lost on me, + and to keep up my character for locomotion, I started at + daybreak for Deenanuggur, finishing off my work _en route_, + remained there the rest of the day to wind up matters, and + add my surveying sketch to the large plan I had commenced + beforehand, and hurried onwards this morning. You will + perceive that I have crossed the Doab, and am now writing on + the banks of the Ravee, some sixty miles above Lahore. I + marched twenty-four and a half miles with tent and baggage + this morning, and hope to continue at that pace, with the + difference of marching by night, the weather having suddenly + become very hot indeed. + + I am much interested in the thought of going to so new a + place as Mooltan--new, that is to say, to Europeans, yet so + important from position and commerce. The only drawback is + the heat, which is notorious throughout Western India. I am + not aware, however, that it is otherwise unhealthy. + + As you may suppose, I am much gratified by the appointment, + both for its own sake and also as evincing so very favorable + and kindly a disposition toward myself on the part of the + new potentate. + + * * * * * + + _To his Sister._ + + CAMP, _March 29th, 1848_. + + Of incidents to amuse you I have not many to narrate, save + the usual "moving" ones by "flood and field." On the 18th I + was very nearly becoming a damp unpleasant corpse to + celebrate my birthday. In attempting a ford, my horse sank + up to the girths in a quicksand. I managed to extricate + myself and, dry land being near, he got up without damage. + Sending a man ahead, I tried again in another place. Here it + was fair to the eye but false to the foot. Down he went + again, this time in deeper water, and got me under him by + struggling. However, I realized the old proverb, and escaped + with a good ducking and a mouthful of my native element, + _rather_ gritty. Next I tried a camel, but the brute went + down at the first stride. So giving it up in despair, I put + on dry clothes, and _then_ waded through the river. + + Not content with one attempt on my existence, the horse gave + me a violent kick the same evening when I went up to him to + ask "How d'ye do." So I completed my year, in spite of + myself, as it were. + + LAHORE, _April 2d_. + + Since the above was written, I have succeeded in reaching + the metropolis, as you see, at a greater expenditure of + animal heat and fatigue than I have gone through for some + time. I was very friendlily and pleasantly greeted by Sir F. + and Lady Currie, and tumbled at once again into the tide of + civilization--loaf bread, arm-chairs, hats, and ladies--as + philosophically as if I had been for months in the calm and + unrestrained enjoyment of such luxuries. + + On my arrival, I found that the arrangement proposed in Sir + F. Currie's note had already become matter of history, _not_ + of fact. The new one is still better for me. I am to remain + at Lahore, and be an assistant to the Resident, having my + Guide duties to discharge also, when Lumsden arrives from + Peshawur with the Corps. He is expected in twenty days. + Nothing could possibly have been better for me. I shall have + the advantage of learning in the best school, head-quarters, + and have many more opportunities of making myself "generally + useful." I am most rejoiced at the plan, and Sir F. Currie's + considerate kindness in devising it. We wont say anything of + the regularity or consistency of making a man of two and a + half year's service, and who has passed no examination, a + political officer, nor will we be ungrateful enough to say + that he is unfit for the appointment, but that he should do + his utmost to show that the rule is more honored "in the + breach than in the observance." + + * * * * * + + RESIDENCY, LAHORE, _April 16th, 1848_. + + I shall not have the same variety to chronicle now that I + seem to be fixed here, but more interest and a higher style + of work. Since I wrote last I have been six hours a day + employed in court, hearing petitions and appeals in all + manner of cases, civil and criminal, and in matters of + revenue, as there are but two officers so employed. You, + perhaps, will comprehend that the duty is no sinecure. It is + of vast importance, and I sometimes feel a half sensation of + modesty coming over me at being set down to administer + justice in such matters so early, and without previous + training. A little practice, patience, and reflection settle + most cases to one's satisfaction, however; and one must be + content with substantial justice as distinguished from + technical law. In any point of difficulty one has always an + older head to refer to, and meantime, one has the + satisfaction of knowing that one is independent and + untrammelled save by a very simple code. Some things, such + as sentencing a man to imprisonment for seven years for + killing a cow, are rather startling to one's ideas of right + and wrong; but then to kill a cow is to break a law, and to + disturb the public peace--perhaps cause bloodshed; so the + law is vindicated, and one's conscience saved. I have many + other duties, such as finishing my map, for which I was + surveying at Deenanuggur; occasionally translating an + official document; going to Durbars, &c.; and when the + Guides arrive (on the 20th) I shall have to assist in + drilling and instructing them; to say nothing of seeing that + their quarters are prepared, and everything ready for them. + I am not, therefore, _idle_, and only wish I had time to + read. + +On the 26th he writes from Lahore:-- + + I mentioned to you that Sir F. Currie's plan of sending me + to assist Agnew at Mooltan had been altered, and that + Anderson had gone with him in my stead. At the time I was + disposed to be disappointed; but we never know what is for + our good. In this case I should doubtless have incurred the + horrible fate of poor Anderson and Agnew. Both these poor + fellows have been barbarously murdered by the Mooltan + troops. + +He then gives a detailed account of their tragical fate, and the +treachery of the villain Moolraj, and adds:-- + + The Sikh Durbar profess their inability to coerce their + rebel subject, who is rapidly collecting a large army, and + strengthening himself in the proverbially strong fort of + Mooltan. + + One cannot say how it will end. The necessary delay of five + months, till after the rains, will give time for all the + disaffected to gather together, and no one can say how far + the infection may extend. The Sikhs were right in saying, + "We shall have one more fight for it yet." + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _May 7th_. + + I expect to be busy in catching a party of rascals who have + been trying to pervert our Sepoys by bribes and promises. We + have a clue to them, and hope to take them in the act. We + are surrounded here with treachery. No man can say who is + implicated, or how far the treason has spread. The life of + no British officer, away from Lahore, is worth a week's + purchase. It is a pleasant sort of government to prop up, + when their head-men conspire against you and their troops + desert you on the slightest temptation. + + Lumsden, the commandant of the Guides, and I want something + sensible for the protection of our heads from sun and blows, + from _coups de soleil_ equally with _coups d'epee_. There is + a kind of leathern helmet in the Prussian service which is + light, serviceable, and neat. Will you try what you can do + in the man-millinery line, and send me a brace of good + helmets? We don't want ornament; in fact, the plainer the + better, as we should always wear a turban over them, but + strong, and light as a hat. I have no doubt your taste will + be approved. I hope this wont be a bore to you, but one's + head wants protecting in these stormy days. + +The helmets on their arrival were pronounced "maddening." This was the +first of a series of commissions connected with the clothing and +arming of the Guide Corps, which was left mainly, if not entirely, in +my brother's hands, and was a matter of much interest to him. The +color selected for their uniform was "drab," as most likely to make +them invisible in a land of dust. Even a member of the Society of +Friends could scarcely have objected to send out drab clothing for 900 +men, but to this succeeded directions to select the pattern of, and +send out, 300 rifle carbines, which seemed scarcely a clerical +business. The result, however, was satisfactory, and in the following +year my brother wrote:-- + + Many thanks for the trouble you have taken about the + clothing for the Guides. Sir C. Napier says they are the + only properly dressed light troops he has seen in India. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, DEENANUGGUR, _June 5th, 1848_. + + You will hardly have been prepared to hear that I am once + more on the move, rushing about the country, despite + climate, heat, and rumors (the most alarming). + + I wrote last the day after our successful capture of the + conspirators, whom I had the satisfaction of seeing hung + three days later. I then tried a slight fever as a variety + for two days; and on the 14th started to "bag" the Ranee in + her abode beyond the Ravee, she having been convicted of + complicity in the designs of the conspirators. Lumsden and + myself were deputed by the Resident to call on her, and + intimate that her presence was urgently required. A + detachment was ordered out to support us, in case any + resistance should be offered. Fortunately it was not + required, as the Ranee complied at once with our "polite" + request to come along with us. Instead of being taken to + Lahore, as she expected, we carried her off to Kana Kutch, + on the Ferozepoor road, where a party of Wheeler's + Irregulars had been sent to receive her. It was very hard + work--a long night march to the fort, and a fourteen hours' + ride across to Kana Kutch, whence I had two hours' gallop + into Lahore to report progress, making sixteen hours in the + saddle, in May, when the nights are hot. On the next Sunday + night I was off again, to try and seize or disperse a party + of horse and foot collected by a would-be holy man, Maharaja + Singh, said to amount to four or five hundred. I made a + tremendous march round by Umritsur, Byrowal-Ghat, on the + Beas, and up that river's bank to Mokeria, in the Jullundur + Doab, whence I was prepared to cross during the night with a + party of cavalry, and attack the rascals unawares. + Everything succeeded admirably up to the last, when I found + that he had received notice from a rogue of a native + magistrate that there would be attempts made to seize him, + when he fairly bolted across the Ravee, and is now infesting + the Doab between that river and the Chenab. I have scoured + this part of the country (which my late surveys enabled me + to traverse with perfect ease) got possession of every boat + on the Ravee from Lahore to the Hills, placed horsemen at + every ferry, and been bullying the people who supplied the + Saint with provisions and arms. I have a regiment of + Irregular Horse (Skinner's) with me, and full powers to + summon more, if necessary, from the Jullundur Doab. + Meantime, a party from Lahore are sweeping round to + intercept the fellow, who is getting strong by degrees; and + I am going to dash across at midnight with a handful of + cavalry, and see if I cannot beat up the country between + this and Wuzeerabad. I am very well, hard at work, and + enjoying the thing very much. I imagine this will be the + sort of life we shall lead about once a week till the + Punjaub is annexed. Every native official has fraternized + with the rebels he was ordered to catch. + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _July 5th, 1848_. + + I wrote last from Deenanuggur, on the eve of crossing the + Ravee to look after the Gooroo, Maharaja Singh. I remained + in the Rechnab Doab some days, hunting up evidence and + punishing transgressors. + + I was very fairly successful in obtaining information of the + extent of the conspiracy, which has been keeping the whole + country in a ferment these two months past. All that has + occurred is clearly traceable to the Ranee (now happily + deported) and her friends, and has been carried out with a + fearful amount of the blackest treachery and baseness. There + have been stirring events since I wrote last. Twice within a + fortnight has Herbert Edwardes fought and defeated the + Mooltan rebels in pitched battles, and has succeeded, + despite of treacherous foes and doubtful friends, in driving + them into the fort of Mooltan. His success has been only + less splendid than the energy and courage which he has shown + throughout, especially that high moral courage which defies + responsibility, risks, self-interest, and all else, for the + good of the State, and which, if well directed, seems to + command fortune and ensure success. I have been longing to + be with him, though after my wonderfully narrow escape of + being murdered with poor Agnew at Mooltan, I may well be + content to leave my movements in other hands. I was summoned + into Lahore suddenly (as usual!) to take command of the + Guides and charge of Lumsden's duties for him, as he had + been sent down the river towards Bhawulpoor. I came in the + whole distance (one hundred miles), with bag and baggage, in + sixty hours, which, considering that one can't travel at all + by day, and not more than four miles an hour by night, + required a great amount of exertion and perseverance. It is + strange that the natives always knock up sooner than we do + on a march like this. The cavalry were nine days on the + road, and grumbled then! I know few things more fatiguing + than when exhausted by the heat of the day, to have to mount + at nightfall, and ride slowly throughout the night, and for + the two most disagreeable hours of a tropical day, viz: + those after sunrise. One night, on which I was making a + longer march than usual, had a fearful effect on a European + regiment moving upon Ferozepoor, the same hot night-wind, + which had completely prostrated me for the time, fell upon + the men as they halted at a well to drink; they were fairly + beaten, and lay down for a few minutes to _pant_. When they + arose to continue their march, a captain and nine or ten men + were left dead on the ground! It was the simoom of Africa in + miniature. I have happily escaped fever or sickness of any + kind, and have nothing to complain of but excessive + weakness. Quinine will, I trust, soon set me up again. + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _Sept. 3d, 1848_. + + We have had stirring times lately, though I personally have + had little share in them. Mooltan is at last invested, and + we expect daily to hear of its fall. Meanwhile, a new + outbreak has occurred in Huzara, a wild hilly region on the + left bank of the Indus, above Attok, where one of the + powerful Sirdars has raised the standard of revolt. + + I suppose I may say to you at so great a distance, what I + must not breathe here, that it is now morally certain that + we have only escaped, by what men call chance and accidents, + the effects of a general and well-organized conspiracy + against British supremacy in Upper India. Our "ally" Gholab + Singh, the creature of the treaty of 1848, the hill tribes, + the whole Punjaub, the chiefs of Rajpootana, and the states + round Umbala and Kurnal, and even the King of Cabul, I + believe, have been for months and months securely plotting, + without our having more than the merest hints of local + disturbances, against the supremacy of the British + Government. They were to unite for one vast effort, and + drive us back upon the Jumna. This was to be again the + boundary of British India. The rising in Mooltan was to be + the signal. All was prepared, when a quarrel between Moolraj + and the treacherous khan, Singh Man, who was sent to + commence the war, spoilt their whole scheme. The proud + Rajpoot, Gholab Singh, refused to follow in the wake of a + Mooltan merchant, and the merchant would not yield to the + soldier. We have seen the mere ebullitions of the storm, the + bubbles which float at the surface. I believe that now we + are safe from a general rising, and that the fall of Mooltan + will put a stop to mischief. If, however, our rulers resort + again to half measures, if a mutinous army is retained in + existence, the evil day will return again. Absolute + supremacy has been, I think, long demonstrated to be our + only safety among wild and treacherous races. _Moderation_, + in the modern sense, is the greatest of all weakness. + + * * * * * + + _Sept. 18th, 1848._ + + You will have seen that our troops have been hard at it in + Mooltan, and now I have to tell you that it has all been in + vain; Rajah Shere Singh, and the whole of our worthy Sikh + allies, have joined the rebel Moolraj, and General Whish has + been compelled to raise the siege and retire. + + I have just dispatched every available Guide to try and get + quietly into the far-famed fort of Govindghur, and hope in a + few hours to hear of their success. They have forty friends + inside, and only a few score wavering enemies. I have not a + moment which I can call my own, and have put off this (which + is merely an assurance that I am alive and very well) to the + last moment, so as to give you the latest tidings. I am all + agog at the prospect of stirring times, and the only single + drawback is the fear that you all will be very anxious. I + shall not, however, run my head unnecessarily into a scrape, + and see no cause for your frightening yourselves. + + One comfort is, that the farce of native government has been + played out. It was an experiment honestly tried, and as + honestly a failure. + +A few days later he says:-- + + My Guides have covered themselves with glory (and dust) by + the way in which they got into, and got possession of, the + famed fort of Govindghur. A hundred of my men, under a + native officer--a fine lad of about twenty, whom I have + petted a good deal--went up quietly to the gates, on + pretence of escorting four State prisoners, (whom I had put + in irons for the occasion,) were allowed to get in, and then + threw up their caps, and took possession of the gateway, + despite the scowls, and threats, and all but open resistance + of the Sikh garrison. A day afterwards a regiment marched + from Lahore, and went into garrison there, and so Runjeet + Singh's treasure-fort is fairly in our hands. + + * * * * * + + _Nov. 1st, 1848._ + + I left Lahore--but stay, I must get there first. Well, I + wrote from Ramnuggur, on the Chenab, last; whence, after a + fruitless _sejour_ of six days, in the vain hope of meeting + Mrs. George Lawrence, I returned suddenly to Lahore by an + order which reached me the evening of the 5th. I started at + sunset, and pushing my way on various borrowed steeds across + that dreary region during the night, accompanied by a + single camel-rider, I reached Lahore, a distance of seventy + miles, by nine the following morning. + + On the 8th I was off again at daybreak on a longer journey + still, having to cross the country to Brigadier Wheeler's + camp in the Jullundur Doab, to convey orders to him relative + to the reduction of two rebellious forts in the Doab, + between the Ravee and Beas. A "grind" of some twenty-six + hours on _camel-back_, with the necessary stoppages, took me + to the camp, whence (because I had not had enough) I + recrossed the Beas the same night, after examining and + reporting on the state of the ferries by which the troops + were to follow me. This time I was escorted by a troop of + Irregular Horse, and being thereby, according to _my_ + estimation of Sikh prowess, rendered tolerably independent, + I marched the next morning for the fort of Rungur Nuggul, + some fourteen miles from the right bank of the Beas. + + On approaching it, and the village which covered one side of + it, I was welcomed by a discharge of matchlocks, &c., as a + sort of bravado, which served to point out exactly the range + of my friends' pieces. I lost no time in getting the + horsemen into a secure position (which means, one equally + good for fighting or running away), and advanced under + shelter of the trees and sugar-canes to within easy distance + of the fort. Hence I dispatched a message to the rebels, to + say that if they did not come to reason within an hour, they + should have no choice but that between cold steel or the + gallows. The hour elapsed without result, so mentally + consigning the garrison to annihilation, I set to work to + reconnoitre the ground round the fort. This + accomplished--with no further interruption than a shower of + unpleasant bullets when I ventured too near--I sat down, + and drew a little pencil plan of the ground and fort, + dispatched a trooper with it to the Brigadier, and then + retired to a little village about a mile off for the night. + Another day and night passed in this precarious fashion, + without (as is my usual fate), servants, clothes, or traps, + until at length my own men (Guides) arrived from Lahore with + my baggage and horses. I could now muster a hundred rifles, + and eighty horsemen, so we set to work to _invest the + place_, being the only way to render the escape of the + rebels difficult or impossible. The fort, though very small, + was immensely strong, and well garrisoned with desperadoes, + and we had sharp work of it during the two nights and day + which elapsed before the Brigadier[7] appeared with his + troops. By keeping my men scattered about in parties, under + cover, the superiority of their weapons enabled them to gall + the defenders of the fort whenever they showed their heads, + day or night; and whenever they made a sally they got driven + back with the loss of one or two of their companions. At + last the Brigadier appeared, pounded the place with his guns + during the day, and let the garrison escape at night. Then + came the bore of destroying the empty fort, a work which + consumed a week of incessant labor, and forty-one mines + loaded with an aggregate of 8,000 pounds of powder. Having + destroyed house, fort, stables, and everything, and removed + the grain and property, we at length moved on to a second + fort, called "Morara," about a mile from the left bank of + the Ravee, near this place. I cannot now go into details of + the second failure of the Brigadier in attempting to punish + the rebels, for they bolted before he fired a shot, nor of + my attempts to prevent their escape. I have had loads of + work, what with soldiering, providing supplies for the + force, and all the multifarious duties which come on the + shoulders of a "political" out here. I am quite well, and + the weather is lovely, so work is easy comparatively, and an + active life like this is, as you know, my particular + weakness. I hope to cross the Ravee in a few days with the + troops collecting to punish the rebel (or patriot) Sikh + army. We want Sir C. Napier sadly. What with the incapacity + shown at Mooltan, and the dilatory proceedings at + head-quarters, our reputation is suffering cruelly, and + every one knows that that is a stain only to be dyed out in + blood. Every week's delay adds thousands to our present foes + and future victims. + + * * * * * + + _To his Sister._ + + DEENANUGGUR, _Dec. 4th, 1848_. + + You must not suppose that because I have written twice from + this place that therefore I have been here all the time. On + the contrary, I have been incessantly on the move. So much + so as to have pretty nearly established a claim to the medal + for discovering perpetual motion. I have been moving in an + orbit whose gyrations have been confined to a space bounded + by the Chenab and the Beas, and a line drawn E. and W. + through Umritsur and Lahore. Nearly the whole of this vast + "_track_" of country has been under my sole charge. I have + had also to feed an army daily of 3,000 odd fighting men, + 2,000 odd horses, and 14,000 to 15,000 camp followers. Also + to take care of and work my Guides; to point out the haunts + and obtain information of the strength of "the enemy," and + give him over to the tender mercies of fire and sword; + _item_, to fight him personally; _item_, to destroy six + forts, and sell by auction the property therein found; + _item_, to be civil to all comers; _item_, to report all the + said doings daily to Government; _item_, to march ten to + twenty miles a day at a slow pace; _item_, to eat, drink, + dress, and sleep, to rest one's self from all these labors. + In the above compendious epitome of the work of that + much-abused and ill-used class called "politicals" in India, + you will, I trust, observe no vacant places or "hiati" in + which you would expect to see inscribed, "_item_, to write + to one's friends." No; one is a white slave, and no mistake; + day and night, early or late, week-day or Sunday, one is the + slave of the public, or rather of the Government, to a + degree which cannot be credited until it is experienced. The + departure of Brigadier Wheeler across the Beas, and + therefore out of my beat, has made a slight break in the + work, but there is still more than I can get through in the + day. I am grinding my teeth all the time at being kept away + from the scene of what must be the grand struggle between + the cow-killers and cow-worshippers on the banks of the + Chenab. + + On the 8th of last month I marched hence to overtake + Brigadier Wheeler and his troops, and accompany them across + the Ravee. On reaching the river, I represented to the + Brigadier "who of course does not know friend from foe until + he is told," the urgent necessity of attacking a party of + insurgents who were within fourteen miles of us, but could + not persuade him to do so. The old gentleman was intent on + pushing on to the main army, flattering himself he was + going to command a division of it. When within twenty-five + or thirty miles of the head-quarter camp at Ramnuggur, I + rode over to Lahore, and talked to Sir F. Currie, who was + just dispatching an express to me about these very people we + had left unattacked two days before. He sent me off there + and then to see the Commander-in-Chief, who was very polite; + asked my opinion "and acted on it too!"; told me all his + plans for carrying on the war; and on my telling him the + facts of the case, sent an order to the Brigadier to retrace + his steps, and attack the party he had passed by at once, + with something very like a rap over the knuckles. After a + delay of some days, caused by a sudden counter summons to + move to reinforce Campbell,[8] who was vainly expecting that + the Singhs would fight, we at length turned back for + Kulallwala, the name of the fort occupied by my friends. We + got within twenty-five miles of it on the 20th, and I urged + the Brigadier to move on like lightning, and crush them. He + would not, and began to make short marches, so I was + compelled to out-manoeuvre him by a bold stroke. On the + morning of the 21st I left his camp, and pushed on some ten + miles to a place on the straight road for Kulallwala. Here + was a fort belonging to a doubtful Sirdar, and I determined + to get possession of it if possible. I had with me only 100 + men, and the enemy was only eight miles off with + 4,000--rabble, to be sure, and fellows who have no heart for + fighting; but the odds were great, and it was necessary to + put a bold face on matters. I therefore "boned" the Chief's + two confidential servants, who were in his dwelling-house + outside the fort, and taking one on each side of me, walked + up to the gateway, and demanded admission; they hesitated, + and made excuses. I significantly hinted that my two + companions should be responsible if a shot was fired; the + stout Sikh heart failed, and I was admitted. My proceeding + was justified, and rendered most opportune by the discovery + that the garrison were preparing munitions of war, mounting + guns, and looking saucy. I turned them out by the same means + as I had gained admittance, viz: by hinting that if any + resistance was made the headmen by my side were doomed. + Putting in sixteen of my Guides to hold it until further + orders, I took up my quarters outside for the night, and + prepared to attack another small mud fort near at hand in + the morning. + + However, my friends ran away in the night in a fright, and + thus I had opened the road to Kulallwala without firing a + shot. In the morning I marched with my little party towards + the enemy, sending back a messenger to the Brigadier to say + that I was close to the place, and that if he did not come + on sharp they would run away or overwhelm me. He was + dreadfully angry, but came on like a good boy! When within a + mile or so of the fort, I halted my party to allow his + column to get up nearer, and as soon as I could see it, + moved on quietly. The _ruse_ told to perfection: thinking + they had only 100 men and myself to deal with, the Sikhs + advanced in strength, thirty to one, to meet me, with colors + flying and drums beating. Just then a breeze sprung up, the + dust blew aside, and the long line of horsemen coming on + rapidly behind my party burst upon their senses. They turned + instantly, and made for the fort, so leaving my men to + advance quietly after them, I galloped up to the Brigadier, + pointed out the flying Sikhs, explained their position, and + begged him to charge them. He melted from his wrath, and + told two regiments of Irregulars to follow my guidance. On + we went at the gallop, cut in amongst the fugitives, and + punished them fearfully. The unfortunate wretches had cause + to rue the day they turned rebels, for we left them thickly + on the ground as we swept along. I had never charged with + cavalry before, or come so directly into hand to hand + conflict with the Sikh, save of course in the trenches at + Sobraon. About 300 to 400 escaped into the fort, while the + remainder threw down their arms and dispersed over the + country. The garrison ran away during the night, + unfortunately, and we had only to take peaceful possession + in the morning. We had killed some 250 to 300 of them, which + will be a lesson to them, I hope. My men got into the + village contiguous to the fort early, while we pitched into + those of the enemy who remained behind, to a great extent. + Since then we have been pursuing other parties, but only + came into collision with them to a very trifling extent + once. They had learnt how to run away beautifully. The + Brigadier has grown quite active, and _very fond of me_ + since that day at Kulallwala, though he had the wit to see + how very "brown I had done him" by making him march two + marches in one.[9] + + + * * * * * + + _Jan. 1849._ + + I have just completed the first series of my duties in this + Doab, by driving the last party of the insurgents across the + Chenab. + + As soon as I had settled matters a little at Deenanuggur, + and made some arrangements to prevent further troubles if + possible, I crossed the Ravee again, and got upon the track + of the rebel party who had given us so much trouble. On the + 15th, I heard that a large party had collected at a village + called Gumrolah (near Dufferwal), but they had so many spies + in my camp, that it was difficult to avoid their ken; at the + same time their tendency to run away made a surprise the + only feasible mode of reaching them. We therefore turned in + as usual at night, but soon after midnight I aroused my men, + and got them under arms and off before any one was aware of + our move. I had with me one hundred of my Guides and fifteen + sowars. + + We marched quietly but swiftly, all night, and came upon the + insurgents just at daybreak. I had ridden forward about half + a mile, with a couple of sowars, to reconnoitre, and got + unobserved within 250 yards of the insurgents, numbering at + least 150 horse and foot. + + They looked at me, and hesitated whether to come at me or + not, apparently, while I beckoned to the remaining sowars to + come up. I was in great hopes that they would have waited + for ten minutes, by which time my men would have been up, + with their rifles, and we should have given a good account + of them. However, before five minutes had elapsed, they + moved off sulkily like a herd of frightened deer, half + alarmed, half in doubt. I saw at once that there was but one + chance left, and determined to go at them as I was,--though + 15 to 150 is an imprudent attempt. + + The instant we were in motion they fled, and had gone half a + mile before we could overtake them; the mounted men got off, + but a party of Akhalees[10] on foot stopped and fought us, + in some instances very fiercely. One fine bold "Nihung" beat + off four sowars one after another, and kept them all at bay. + I then went at him myself, fearing that he would kill one of + them. He instantly rushed to meet me like a tiger, closed + with me, yelling, "Wah Gooroo ji," and accompanying each + shout with a terrific blow of his tulwar. I guarded the + three or four first, but he pressed so closely to my horse's + rein that I could not get a fair cut in return. At length I + pressed in my turn upon him so sharply that he missed his + blow, and I caught his tulwar backhanded with my bridle + hand, wrenched it from him, and cut him down with the right, + having received no further injury than a severe cut across + the fingers; I never beheld such desperation and fury in my + life. It was not _human_ scarcely. By this time the rest of + the party had gone a long way, and as we had already pursued + farther than was prudent, where the spectators even were + armed, and awaiting the result, I was obliged to halt, not + without a growl at General Wheeler for having left me + without any men. We had killed one more than our own number, + however, and five more were so severely wounded that they + were removed on "charpoys." + +I insert here a portion of Sir F. Currie's despatch to the +Governor-General with reference to this affair, with the +Governor-General's reply. + +They will show the high opinion entertained at the time of my +brother's services by his superiors. + + "LAHORE PRESIDENCY, _Jan. 6th, 1849_. + + "The affair at Buddee Pind was a most gallant one,--far more + so than Lieutenant Hodson's modest statement in his letter + would lead me to suppose. I have accounts from parties who + were eye-witnesses to the personal gallantry and energy of + Lieutenant Hodson, by whose hand, in single conflict, the + Akhalee, mentioned in paragraph 5, fell, after he had beaten + off four horsemen of the 15th Native Cavalry, and to whose + bold activity and indefatigable exertions, and the admirable + arrangements made by him, with the small means at his + disposal, the successful issue of this expedition is to be + attributed." + +To this his Lordship replied as follows, through his secretary. + + _From the_ SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT _to_ SIR F. CURRIE, BART. + + "_Jan. 14th, 1849._ + + "I am directed to request that you will convey to Lieutenant + Hodson the strong expression of the Governor-General's + satisfaction with his conduct, and with the mode in which he + discharges whatever duty is intrusted to him. The + Governor-General has had frequent occasions of noticing the + activity, energy, and intelligence of his proceedings, and + he has added to the exercise of the same qualities on this + occasion an exhibition of personal gallantry which the + Governor-General has much pleasure in recording and + applauding, although Lieutenant Hodson has modestly + refrained from bringing it to notice himself. The + Governor-General offers to Lieutenant Hodson his best thanks + for these services. + + (Signed) + "H. M. ELLIOTT, + + "_Secretary to the Government of India + with the Governor-General_." + + + * * * * * + + CAMP UNDER THE HILLS ON THE RAVEE, _Jan. 18th, 1849_. + + ... A few days afterwards, Lumsden having joined me with our + mounted men, we surprised and cut to pieces another party of + rebels, for which we have again been thanked by Government. + Since then I have been with Brigadier-General Wheeler's + force again, employed in hunting after one Ram Singh and his + followers, and have been day and night at work,--examining + the hills and rivers, trying fords, leading columns, and + doing all the multifarious duties thrust on that unhappy + combination of hard work, a "Guide" and "Political" in one. + Ram Singh's position was stormed on the 16th, and I had been + chosen to lead one of the principal columns of attack; but + we had to march by a circuitous route across the hills, + darkness came on, accompanied by dreadful rain, the rivers + rose and were impassable, and after twenty-four hours of the + most trying work I ever experienced, in which cold, hunger, + and wet were our enemies, we succeeded in reaching our + ground just in time to be too late; however, I had done all + that human nature could effect under the circumstances, and + one cannot always be successful. Two poor fellows, one a + nephew of Sir R. Peel's, were killed; otherwise the loss was + trifling on our side.[11] + + We have just received intelligence of another great fight + between the army under Lord Gough and the Sikhs,[12] in + which the latter, though beaten, seem to have had every + advantage given away to them. Our loss has been severe, and + the mismanagement very disgraceful, yet it will be called a + victory and lauded accordingly. Oh for one month of Sir + Charles Napier! + + * * * * * + + DEENANUGGUR, _Feb. 4th, 1849_. + + I had one of my narrowest escapes two days ago: I went into + Lahore for a few days to see Sir H. Lawrence (who is again + the Resident), and laid relays of horses along the road to + this place, so as to ride in at once. I left Lahore on the + morning of the 31st, and stopping at Umritsur to breakfast, + reached my camp at nightfall, having ridden one hundred + miles in ten hours and a half. A party of Sikhs had + collected at a village by the roadside to attack me and + "polish" me off, but not calculating upon the rapidity of my + movements, did not expect me until the morning. I am sorry + to say that they surrounded my horses which were coming on + quietly in the morning, asked for me, and finding I had + escaped, stole my best horse (a valuable Arab, who had + carried me in three fights), and bolted, not, however, + without resistance, for two horsemen (Guides) of mine who + were with the horse tried to save it. One got four wounds + and the other escaped unhurt. Had I ridden like any other + Christian instead of like a spectre horseman, and been the + usual time on the road, I should have been "a body." We gave + chase from hence as soon as we heard, and rode for eleven + hours and a half in pursuit! which was pretty well after a + hundred miles' ride the day before. + + But my horse it is another's, + And it never can be mine! + + * * * * * + + CAMP, WUZEERABAD, _Feb. 19th, 1849_. + + I have at length reached the "army of the Punjaub," almost + by accident, as it were, though I was most anxious to be + present at the final grand struggle between the Khalsa and + the British armies. I am at present with my men, attached to + a brigade encamped on this (the left) bank of the Chenab, to + prevent the enemy crossing until Lord Gough is ready to + attack them on the right bank, where he is now encamped with + his whole force minus our brigade. The Sikhs quietly walked + away from him the other day, and instead of having their + backs to the Jhelum, passed round his flank, and made + steadily for this place, intending, boldly enough, to march + upon Lahore. I came across the Doab with a handful of men, + and reached this place just as they took up a position on + the opposite bank of the river. At the same moment a brigade + arrived by a forced night-march from Ramnuggur, and, for the + present, the Sikhs have been _sold_. Yet I should not be + surprised at their evading us again, and going off to a + higher ford. The game is getting very exciting, and I am + quite enjoying the stir and bustle of two large armies in + the field. The grand finale must, one would think, come off + in a day or two. It is possible however that, as I say, the + Sikhs may out-manoeuvre us and prolong the campaign. The + Affghans have joined the Sikhs, contrary to the expectations + of every one (but myself), and there is now no saying where + the struggle will end. + + The Affghans are contemptible _in the plains_, generally + speaking; but numbers become formidable, even if armed with + broomsticks. + +This was written two days before the decisive engagement of Goojerat, +at which he was present, attached to the personal staff of the +Commander-in-Chief. His letter, giving an account of the action, +was unfortunately lost, but I subjoin a despatch from the +Commander-in-Chief to the Governor-General:-- + + "CAMP, KULLALA, _March 15th, 1849_. + + "On the re-perusal of my despatch relative to the operations + of February 21st at Goojerat, I regret to find that I + omitted to mention the names of Lieutenants Lumsden and + Hodson of the corps of Guides, and Lieutenant Lake of the + Engineers, attached to the Political Department. These + officers were most active in conveying orders throughout the + action, and I now beg to bring their names to the favorable + notice of your Lordship." + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[5] Now Sir Robert Napier, K. C. B. + +[6] Lieutenant (now Col.) Herbert Edwardes wrote as follows to his +family in England:-- + +"Young Hodson has been appointed to do duty with our Punjaub Guide +Corps, commanded by Lieutenant Lumsden. The duties of a Commandant or +Adjutant of Guides are at once important and delightful. It is his +duty in time of peace to fit himself for leading armies during war. +This necessitates his being constantly on the move, and making himself +and his men acquainted with the country in every quarter. In short, it +is a roving commission, and to a man of spirit and ability one of the +finest appointments imaginable. + +"I think Hodson will do it justice. He is one of the finest young +fellows I know, and a thorough soldier in his heart." + +[7] _Extract from Despatch of_ BRIGADIER WHEELER _to the_ +ADJUTANT-GENERAL. + + CAMP, RUNGUR NUGGUL, _Oct. 15th, 1848_. + + "Lieut. W. S. Hodson, with his detachment of Corps of + Guides, has done most excellent service, and by his daring + boldness, and that of his men, gained the admiration of + all." + +[8] Sir Colin. + +[9] _Extract from an Order issued by_ BRIGADIER-GENERAL WHEELER. + + "CAMP KULALLWALA, _Nov. 23d, 1848_. + + "The detachment of the Corps of Guides moved in the morning + direct on the village, whilst the other troops were moving + on the fort. It was occupied in force by the enemy, who were + dislodged in a most spirited manner, and the place + afterwards retained as commanding the works of the fort, the + men keeping up a sharp fire on all who showed themselves. + The thanks of the Brigadier-General are due to Lieut. + Hodson, not only for his services in the field, but for the + information with which he furnished him, and he offers them + to him and to his men." + +[10] Fanatics. + +[11] _Extract from an Order issued by_ BRIGADIER-GENERAL WHEELER, + C. B., _dated_ + + "CAMP BELOW DULLAH, _Jan. 17th, 1849_. + + "This order cannot be closed without the expression of the + Brigadier-General's high opinion of the services of + Lieutenants Lumsden and Hodson, who have spared no labor to + obtain for him an accurate knowledge of the mountain of + Dullah and its approaches; and Lieutenant Hodson has + entitled himself to the sincere thanks of the + Brigadier-General for his endeavors to lead a column to turn + the enemy's position, which failed only from causes which + rendered success impracticable." + +[12] Chillianwalla, Jan. 13th, 1849. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + + ANNEXATION OF PUNJAUB.--INCREASE OF CORPS OF GUIDES AT + PESHAWUR.--TRANSFER TO CIVIL DEPARTMENT AS ASSISTANT + COMMISSIONER. + + + _April 17th, 1849._ + + You will have heard of the great events of the last month; + how on the 26th March, the Punjaub became "forever" a + British Province, governed by a Triumvirate; and how the + Koh-i-noor was appropriated as a present to the Queen,--and + all the rest of it; you may imagine the turmoil and unrest + of this eventful time; but I defy you to imagine the + confusion of the process which converts a wild native + kingdom into a police-ridden and civilian-governed country. + + I had anticipated and wished for this measure. I did not, + however, expect that it would be carried out so suddenly and + so sweepingly as it has been.... + + I have been _annexed_ as well as the Punjaub! my + "occupation's gone," and although efforts have been and are + making for my restoration to "the department," yet at + present I am shelved. I shall know more next month. + Meanwhile, I am off with the new Commissioner to instruct + him in the details of his province, which I had governed and + _won_ from the rebels during the last six months, but in + which I am not now accounted worthy to be a humble + assistant. There's fame! Well, something will turn up, I + suppose. I hope to remain here, however, under the + Commissioner, for a time, that I may get acquainted with + this wonderful civil system. It is as well to know how the + mill works. + + I got quite fond of Lord Gough. I was his guest at Lahore + for a month, and his noble character and fire made one + condone his mistakes. + + We are now on the "_qui vive_" for his successor. I long for + Sir C. Napier, but the Court of Directors seem determined to + hold out. + + The Guides are at Peshawur, where I shall probably join + them. + +Lieutenant Hodson's descent in position, upon the annexation of the +Punjaub, was, perhaps, unavoidable, though it was very natural that he +should feel it. So soon as the country was placed under the government +of the East India Company, the regulations of the service with regard +to seniority of course took effect, and it was not to be expected that +a subaltern of less than five years' standing should be continued in +so important a charge, however well qualified he might have proved +himself for it in the most trying times. His position altogether had +been a peculiar and exceptional one. + +We shall see, however, that his disappointment did not prevent his +throwing himself with his usual energy into whatever duties were +assigned to him. + + * * * * * + + _To his Brother._ + + PESHAWUR, _May 14th, 1849_. + + My stay here is very uncertain. I merely came to settle + affairs with Lumsden relative to the increase of the Guides. + Meantime, I have been much interested with my first visit to + this Affghan province and to the Indus. You will see at once + that though it gives us a very strong military frontier, + only passable to armies in half a dozen points, and + therefore infinitely less difficult to hold than a long line + of river, which is ever "a silent highway for nations," yet + at the same time we have once more established a footing in + Affghanistan from which there is no receding, as we did when + we went as allies to the puppet Shah Soojah. Our next stride + must be to Herat, I fancy; _when_ the day will come no man + can say, but "the uncontrollable principle," which, + according to Sir R. Peel, took us there before, will not be + the less active in its operation now that we have no longer + the court and camp of Runjeet Singh between us and these + wild tribes. It is to be hoped that "the uncontrollable + principle" will not appear so very like an _un_controllable + want of it as it did in days gone by! However, go we must, + and shall _some_ day,--so hurrah for Cabul! + + I wish you would hit upon some plan for keeping me more "au + fait" with the events of your home world. My time has been + occupied so constantly since I came to India, that, though I + may have made some progress in the knowledge of _men_, I + have made but little in that of _books_. We are sadly off + for military works in English, and few sciences require more + study than the art of war. You might get me a list of good + works from the "United Service Institution" at Charing + Cross. I want the best edition of Caesar procurable; also + Xenophon and Arrian. I fancy the last has been very well + edited. + + * * * * * + + PESHAWUR, _June 8th, 1849_. + + This is the first time I have written to you from + Affghanistan. Who shall say whence my letters may be + directed within a few months. Are we to advance on Cabul and + Candahar, and plant the Union Jack once more on the towers + of Ghuznee? or are we to lie peacefully slumbering on the + banks of the Indus? Are our conquests at an end? or will it + be said of Lord Dalhousie-- + + Ultra et Garamantas et Indos + Proferet imperium? + + My own belief is, that I shall live to see both the places I + have mentioned, and Herat, occupied by British troops; at + least, I hope so. + + I think I told you how it had pleased the Governor-General + to reward "my distinguished services," toils, troubles, and + dangers, by kicking me out of the coach altogether. Did I + not? Well, after that close to my civil duties, after having + "initiated" the new Commissioner into his duties, I was sent + up hither to augment recruits and train the Guides. And now + daily, morning and evening, I may be seen standing on one + leg to convince their Affghan mind of the plausibility and + elegance of the goose step. I am quite a sergeant-major just + now, and you will well believe that your wandering brother + is sufficiently cosmopolized to drop with a certain + "aplomb" into any line of life which may turn up in the + course of his career. I was always fond of "soldiering," and + there is a species of absurdity in dropping from the + minister of a province into a drill-sergeant, which is + enlivening. By the next mail I may have to report my + transformation into some new animal. So "vive la gloire." + + * * * * * + + PESHAWUR, _July 19th, 1849_. + + I hope that you got my letter about sending me books. There + is a remarkable dearth of them here just now. You know it + was a flying column which came on here after Goojerat, + composed of regiments hurried up to the field from Bombay, + Scinde, and Hindostan. They came in light marching order. + Books are not a part of that style of equipment. Suddenly a + Government order consigned them to Peshawur, for seven + months at least,--10,000 men, with an unusually large number + of Europeans and officers, _and no books_! Pleasant during + the confinement caused by the hot season. I was better off, + because, being a nomad by profession, I carry a few books as + a part even of the lightest equipment, but I have read them + all till I am tired, except Shakspeare. _My_ time is pretty + fully occupied, but there are dozens of regimental officers + who have not an hour's work in two days, and I do pity them + from my heart. Then of course there are no ladies here, and + consequently no society, or _reunions_, (as they are called + when people _live_ together,) and people are pitched + headlong on to their own resources, and find them very _hard + falling indeed_! I have nothing personal to tell you, except + that when the last mail went out I was in bed with a sharp + attack of fever, which left me without strength, flesh, or + appetite,--a regular blazing eastern fever, the sort of + thing which burns so fast, that if it don't stop quickly, it + burns you well down into the socket, and leaves you there + without strength to splutter or flicker, and you go out + without the satisfaction of a last flare-up at expiring. I + am thankful to say I am well again now, and picking up + strength fast. + + They are increasing our corps of Guides to 1,000 men, so + that I shall have enough on my hands, especially as our + Commandant leaves almost everything to me. Sir H. Lawrence + writes from Simla that I am to be appointed an Assistant + Commissioner under the new Board of Administration. I was + the only one of the late Assistants to the Resident who was + not included at first in the new _regime_. + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _Sept. 3d, 1849_. + + On my arrival here I found your note of 18th June. You may + imagine how wild I was with pleasure at seeing your + handwriting again, as I had been deeply anxious since the + arrival of my father's and George's letters of the 4th June. + These brought me the first tidings of our darling's death. + Happily I saw no newspaper by that mail, and the black edges + first startled me from the belief that you were all well and + happy. The blow was a bitter one indeed, and its utter + suddenness was appalling. Indeed, the prevailing impression + on my mind for days was simple unbelief of the reality of + that sweet child's actual death. I have been so long + _alone_,--home has been for so long a time more a pleasant + dream than a reality,--I have been for so many a weary day, + as it were, dead to you all, and the sense of separation + has grown so completely into one's being, that I find it + difficult to separate that which it is possible to see again + from that which is impossible. Thus it seems to me + incredible that any greater barrier can sever me from this + darling child than that ever-present one which divides me + from all of you. Can you understand this? I know it to be a + delusion, and yet I cannot shake it off. Yet 'tis a good + delusion in one way. It deadens the sense of grief which the + full realization of her death would overwhelm me with. + + I have been unfortunate again, and had a second sharp attack + of fever since my arrival. I am about again, but not able to + work. Sir H. Lawrence is very unwell; I fear that his + constitution is utterly broken down, and that he will either + have to go away from India for two years or more, or that + another hot season will kill him. He is ten years older in + every respect than he was during our Cashmere trip in 1846. + This is a hard, wearing, dry climate, which, though + preferable to Hindostan, is destructive to the weak and + sickly. It is quite sad to feel how, little by little, one's + strength and muscle and energy fade, and how one can + perceive age creeping in upon one so early. + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _Sept. 24th, 1849_. + + You know that I have left the Guides (alas!) and have been + transformed into a complete civilian, doomed to pass the + rest of my career in the administrative and executive duties + of the Government of this last acquisition of the English in + India. To tell the truth, I had much rather have remained + with the Guides; a more independent, and very far pleasanter + life, and I think one that will in the end be more + distinguished. However, I was guided by Mr. Thomason's and + Sir H. Lawrence's advice, and must take the consequences. It + would be difficult to define or explain the exact nature of + my new calling, but in brief, you will comprehend that in + their respective districts the Deputy Assistant + Commissioners perform the whole of the judicial, fiscal, and + magisterial duties which devolve upon the Government of a + country in Europe, with the addition of collecting from the + cultivators and landholders the rent of all lands under + cultivation and pasture, and the duties which in Europe + devolve on an owner of landed property. Police, jails, + quarter-sessions, committals to prison, jury, judge, excise, + stamps, taxes, roads, bridges, ferries, woods and forests, + and finally rent! think what these imply, and you will form + some idea of the employment of an official in the Punjaub + under the "Board of Administration." I have not yet dipped + very deep into this turbid stream of ever-recurring work, + since the great amount of arrears consequent on the break-up + of one Government, and the establishment of another, + including the paying-up and discharge of vast civil and + military establishments, have rendered it necessary to + employ any available head and pair of hands for some months + at head-quarters. The army has fallen to my share, and I + have to examine into the claims of innumerable fine old + hangers-on of the Lahore State to grants or pensions, to + record their rights, and report on them for the decision of + Government. Then there are upwards of 2,000 old women, wives + and mothers of soldiers killed in war, whom I have to see + and pay the pittance decreed by their masters. Lord + Dalhousie, and his secretaries and officials, are stern and + hard taskmasters, and are not unworthily represented by the + new Board, the only merciful member of which (Sir H. + Lawrence) is left in a minority, and is, moreover, too ill + to do much. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, PATANKOTE, _Jan. 21st, 1850_. + + I at length got away from Lahore on the 7th. I had been + ordered merely to seek change of air, but Sir H. Lawrence + was starting on a long tour of inspection, and offered me + the option of accompanying him, and doing a little work by + the way, which I very much preferred; so here we are, after + visiting the sacred city of Umritsur, and the scenes of my + last year's adventures in Butala, Deenanuggur, and Shahpoor, + all between the Ravee and Beas; and are now on our way to + the mountain stations of Kangra, &c. We then go to the + westward again, and I hope to see + + Our coursers graze at ease, + Beyond the blue Borysthenes, + + as I have dubbed the Indus, ere we again return to civil + life, which does not suit my temperament or taste half as + well as this more nomad life. I am able to ride again, + though not quite with the same firmness, in the saddle as of + yore. I have no doubt, however, that ere we do see the + "Borysthenes," I shall be as "game" for a gallop of one + hundred miles on end, as I was last year at this season. + + * * * * * + + UMRITSUR, _March 4th, 1850_. + + I am at last in a fair way of being stationary for a time at + Umritsur, the sacred city of the Sikhs, and a creation + entirely of their genius. Lahore, as of course you know, + was the old Mussulman capital, and was not built by the + Sikhs, though used by them as the seat of government and + head-quarters of the army. Umritsur is larger than Lahore by + a third or more of people, and half as much again of space. + It is five miles in circumference, very strongly fortified, + and covered by the fortress of Govindghur on the west, and + by a large fortified garden on the north. I am Assistant + Commissioner under the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the + district, Mr. Saunders, a civilian, a very nice sort of + fellow, with an exceedingly pretty and nice wife. Mr. + Montgomery is our Commissioner. I like all I have seen of + him very much indeed. He is a very able man, and at the head + of his service in many respects. Lahore is only about + thirty-five miles hence,--quite within visiting distance in + India. + + You must not talk of getting "acclimatized." There is no way + of becoming so but by avoiding the climate as much as + possible. I have had a bad time of it since I left Peshawur, + three and a half months almost entirely on my back, which + reduced me terribly. Then just as I was getting well, the + other day I had a fit of jaundice, which has only just left + me; altogether, in health and in prospects I have come "down + in my luck" to a considerable extent; not that, _per se_, I + ought, as a subaltern of not quite five years' service, to + grumble at my present position, if I was now starting in the + line for the first time; but I can't forget that I came into + the Punjaub two years and a half ago, and have had no little + of the "burden and heat of the day" to bear, when to do so + required utter disregard of comfort and personal safety and + of rest. It is now two years since I was made an Assistant + to the Resident, and within a few months of that time I took + absolute charge of a tract of country (in a state of war, + too) comprising three modern districts, in one of which I am + now playing third fiddle. Surely annexation was a "heavy + blow and a great discouragement" to me, at least. In the + military line, too, I have been equally unlucky, from the + fact of my services having been with detachments instead of + with the main army. I held my ground (and cleared it of the + enemy, too) for weeks, with only 120 men at my back, and + when every officer, from General Wheeler downwards, + entreated me to withdraw and give it up; I fed 5,000 men and + horses for six months by personal and unremitting exertion; + collected the revenues of the disturbed districts, and paid + 15,000_l._ over and above, into the treasury, from the + proceeds of property taken from the rebels. Besides this, I + worked for General Wheeler so satisfactorily, that he has + declared publicly that he could have done nothing without + me. So much were the Sikhs enraged[13] at my proceedings, + that party after party were sent to "_polish_" me off, and + at one time I couldn't stir about the country without having + bullets sent at my head from every bush and wall. However, I + need not go on with the catalogue, I have been egotistical + enough as it is. The "reward" for these services was losing + my civil appointment, and being reduced to half pay or + little more for three months, and the distinction of being + the only subaltern mentioned in despatches for whom nothing + has been done either "in praesenti" or "in prospectu." "Had + your name been Hay or Ramsay," said General Wheeler to me + the other day, "no honors, no appointments, no distinctions + would have been considered too great to mark the services + you have rendered to Government." Well, we shall live to see + more wars, or I am sadly mistaken, and _then_--I leave you + to finish the sentence. + + Speaking of the system of the Indian army:-- + + _March 18th, 1850._ + + At the age at which officers become colonels and majors, not + one in fifty is able to stand the wear and tear of Indian + service. They become still more worn in mind than in body. + All elasticity is gone; all energy and enterprise worn out; + they become, after a fortnight's campaign, a burden to + themselves, an annoyance to those under them, and a terror + to every one but the enemy! The officer who commanded the + cavalry brigade which so disgraced the service at + Chillianwalla, was not able to mount a horse without the + assistance of two men. A brigadier of infantry, under whom I + served during the three most critical days of the late war, + could not see his regiment when I led his horse by the + bridle until its nose touched the bayonets; and even then he + said faintly, "Pray which way are the men facing, Mr. + Hodson?" This is no exaggeration, I assure you. Can you + wonder that our troops have to recover by desperate + fighting, and with heavy loss, the advantages thrown away by + the want of heads and eyes to lead them? + + A seniority service, like that of the Company, is all very + well for poor men; better still for fools, for they must + rise equally with wise men; but for maintaining the + discipline and efficiency of the army in time of peace, and + hurling it on the enemy in war, there never was a system + which carried so many evils on its front and face. + + I speak strongly, you will say, for I feel acutely; though I + am so young a soldier, yet the whole of my brief career has + been spent in camps, and a year such as the last, spent in + almost constant strife, and a great part of it on detached + and independent command, teaches one lessons which thirty + years of peaceful life, of parades and cantonments, would + never impart. + + There are men of iron, like Napier and Radetzky, aged men, + whom nothing affects; but they are just in sufficient + numbers to prove the rule by establishing exceptions. Depend + upon it, that for the rough work of war, especially in + India, your leaders must be young to be effective. + + If you _could_ but see my beautiful rough and ready boys, + with their dirt colored clothes and swarthy faces, lying in + wait for a Sikh, I think it would amuse you not a little. I + must try and send you a picture of them. Alas! I am no + longer a "Guide," but only a big-wig, administering justice, + deciding disputes, imprisoning thieves, and assisting to + hang highwaymen, like any other poor old, fat, respectable, + humdrum justice of the peace in Old England. + + * * * * * + + UMRITSUR, _April 5th, 1850_. + + I quite agree with all you say about Arnold. His loss was a + national misfortune. Had he lived, he would have produced an + impression on men's minds whose effects would have been felt + for ages. As it is, the influence which he did produce has + been most lasting and striking in its effects. It is felt + even in India; I cannot say more than _that_. + + You should come and live in India for five years if you + wished to feel (supposing you ever doubted it) the benefit + of our "established" forms of Christianity. Even the outward + signs and tokens of its profession--cathedrals, churches, + colleges, tombs, hospitals, almshouses--have, I am now more + than ever convinced, an influence on men's minds and + principles and actions which none but those who have been + removed from their influence for years can feel or + appreciate thoroughly. The more I think of this, the more + strongly I feel the effect of mere external sights and + sounds on the inner and better man. Our Gothic buildings, + our religious-looking churches, have, I am sure, a more + restraining and pacifying influence than is generally + believed by those who are habituated to them, and have never + felt the want of them. A few cathedrals and + venerable-looking edifices would do wonders in our colonies. + Here we have nothing physical to remind us of any creed but + Islamism and Hindooism. The comparative purity of the + Moslem's creed is shown admirably in the superiority in + taste and form of their places of prayer. Christianity alone + is thrust out of sight! A barrack-room, a ball-room, a + dining-room, perhaps a court of justice, serve the purpose + for which the "wisdom and piety of our ancestors" + constructed such noble and stately temples; feeling, justly, + that the human mind in its weakness required to be called to + the exercise of devotion by the senses as well as by reason + and will; that separation from the ordinary scenes of + every-day life, its cares, its toils, its amusements, is + necessary to train the feelings and thoughts to that state + in which religious impressions are conveyed. I have not seen + a church for three years and more, nor heard the service of + the Church read, save at intervals, in a room in which, + perhaps, the night before, I had been crushed by a great + dinner party, or worn out by the bustle and turmoil of + suitors. The building in which one toils becomes intimately + associated with the toil itself. That in which one prays + should at least have some attribute to remind one of prayer. + Human nature shrinks for long from the thought of being + buried in any but consecrated ground; the certainty of lying + dead some day or other on a field of battle, or by a + roadside, has, I have remarked, the most strange effect on + the soldier's mind. Depend upon it the same feeling holds + good with regard to consecrated places of worship. You may + think this fanciful, but I am sure you would feel it more + strongly than I do, were you to live for a time in a country + where everything _but religion_ has its living and existent + memorials and evidences. + + But to return to reality: I have just spent three days in + Sir Charles Napier's camp, it being my duty to accompany him + through such parts of the civil district as he may have + occasion to visit. He was most kind and cordial, vastly + amusing and interesting, and gave me even a higher opinion + of him than before. To be sure his language and mode of + expressing himself savor more of the last than of this + century,--of the camp than of the court; but barring these + eccentricities, he is a wonderful man; his heart is as + thoroughly in his work, and he takes as high a tone in all + that concerns it, as Arnold did in his; that is to say, the + highest the subject is capable of. I only trust he will + remain with us as long as his health lasts, and endeavor to + rouse the army from the state of slack discipline into which + it has fallen. On my parting with him he said, "Now, + remember, Hodson, if there is any way in which I can be of + use to you, pray don't scruple to write to me." I didn't + show him his brother's[14] letter,--that he might judge for + himself first, and know me "per se," or rather "per me;" I + will, however, if ever I see him again. + +FOOTNOTES: + +[13] Such an impression had my brother's daring and activity produced +upon the minds of the Sikhs, that several years afterwards it was +found that the Sikh mothers still used his name as a threat of terror +to their children, reminding one of the border ballad,-- + + Hark ye, hark ye, do not fret ye, + The black Douglas shall not get ye. + + +[14] Sir W. Napier. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + + TOUR IN CASHMERE AND THIBET WITH SIR HENRY + LAWRENCE.--PROMOTION AND TRANSFER TO CIS-SUTLEJ PROVINCES. + + + CAMP, EN ROUTE TO CASHMERE, _June 10th, 1850_. + + Your letter from Paris reached me just as I was preparing to + start from Umritsur to join Sir Henry Lawrence, and + accompany him to Cashmere. I fought against the necessity of + leave as long as possible, but I was getting worse and worse + daily, and so much weakened from the effects of heat and + hard work acting on a frame already reduced by sickness, + that I was compelled to be off ere worse came. We yesterday + arrived at the summit of the first high ridge southward of + the snowy range, and have now only some sixty miles to + traverse before entering the valley. To me, travelling is + life, and in a country where one has no home, no local + attractions, and no special sympathies, it is the greatest + comfort in the world. I get terribly _ennuye_ if I am in one + place for three months at a time; yet I think I should be + just as tame as ever in England, quite domestic again. + + * * * * * + + CASHMERE, _July 8th, 1850_. + + You would enjoy this lovely valley extremely. I did not know + it was so beautiful, having only seen it before in its + winter dress. Nothing can exceed the luxuriant beauty of the + vegetation, the plane-trees and walnuts especially, except + the squalor, dirt, and poverty of the wretched Cashmerians. + The King is avaricious, and is old. The disease grows on + him, and he wont look beyond his money-bags. There is a + capitation tax on every individual practising any labor, + trade, profession, or employment, collected _daily_. Fancy + the Londoners having to go and pay a fourpenny and a + sixpenny bit each, per diem, for the pleasure of living in + the town. Then the tax on all shawls, goods, and fabrics, is + about seventy-five per cent., including custom duty; and + this the one solitary staple of the valley. The chief crops + are rice, and of this, what with one half taken at a slap as + "revenue," or rent, and sundry other pulls for dues, taxes, + and offerings, so little remains to the farmer, that in + practice he pays _all_, or within a few bushels of all, his + produce to the King, and secures in return _his food_, and + that not of the best. Thus the farmer class, or "Zemindars," + are reduced pretty well to the state of day-laborers; yet + the people are all well clothed, and fuel is to be had for + the asking. What a garden it might be made. Not an acre to + which the finest water might not be conveyed without expense + worth naming, and a climate where all produce comes to + perfection, from wheat and barley to grapes and silk. We go + northwards on the 20th, first to Ladakh and Thibet, thence + to Iskardo, and then across the Indus to Gilghit, a _terra + incognita_ to which, I believe, only one European now living + has penetrated. Sir Henry Lawrence is not well, and + certainly not up to this trip, but he has made up his mind + to go. I do not gain strength as fast as I could wish, but I + fancy when once thoroughly unstrung, it takes a long time to + recover the wonted tone. + + We shall have another frontier war in the cold weather + evidently, and I fancy a more prolonged and complete affair + than the last. The cause of the only loss sustained in the + last scrimmage was the panic of the Sepoys. They are as + children in the hands of these Affghans and hill tribes. Our + new Punjaub levies fought "like bricks," but the Hindostanee + is not a hardy enough animal, physically or morally, to + contend with the sturdier races west of the Sutlej, or the + active and fighting "Pathans." The very _name_ sticks in + John Sepoy's throat. I must try and see the next contest, + but I do not quite see my way to it at present. + + * * * * * + + _To his Sister._ + + CAMP, NEAR LADAKH, _August 4th, 1850_. + + Who would have thought of my writing to you from Thibet. I + am sitting in a little tent about eight feet long, which + just takes a narrow cot, a table, and chair of camp + dimensions, and my _sac-de-nuit_, gun, &c., and a tin box + containing books, papers, and the materials for this present + epistle. Under the same tree (a veritable chestnut) is Sir + Henry Lawrence's tent, a ditto of mine, in which he is + comfortably sleeping, as I ought to be; outside are my + pets,--that is, a string of mules who accompany me in all my + travels, and have also in the mountains the honor of + carrying me as well as my baggage. The kitchen is under a + neighboring tree; and round a fire are squatting our gallant + guards, a party of Maharaja Gholab Singh's household + brigade. Some of his people accompany us, and what with + followers, a Moonshee or two for business, and their + followers, I dare say we are a party of two or three hundred + souls, of all colors and creeds,--Christians, Mussulmans, + Hindoos, Buddhists, Sikhs, and varieties of each. The creeds + of the party are as varied as their colors; and that's + saying a good deal, when you contrast my white face and + yellow hair with Sir Henry's nut-brown, the pale white + parchmenty-color of the Kashmeree, the honest brunette tinge + of the tall Sikh, the clear olive-brown of the Rajpoot, down + through all shades of dinginess to the deep black of the + low-caste Hindoo. I am one of the whitest men in India, I + fancy, as, instead of burning in the sun, I get blanched + like endive or celery. How you would stare at my long beard, + moustache, and whiskers. However, to return from such + personalities to facts. The Indus is brawling along five + hundred feet below us, as if in a hurry to get "out of + that;" and above, one's neck aches with trying to see to the + top of the vast craggy mountains which confine the stream in + its rocky channel. So wild, so heaven-forsaken a scene I + never beheld; living nature there is none. In a week's + journey, I have seen three marmots, two wag-tails, and three + jackdaws; and we have averaged twenty miles a day. + + We met a lady the other day, in the most romantic way + possible, in the midst of the very wildest of glens, and + almost as wild weather. She is a young and very pretty + creature, gifted with the most indomitable energy and + endurance (except as regards her husband, whom she _can't_ + endure, and therefore travels alone). But conceive, that for + the last three months she has been making her way on + pony-back across a country which few _men_ would like to + traverse, over the most formidable passes, the deepest and + rapidest rivers, and wildest deserts in Asia. For twenty + days she was in the extreme wilds of Thibet, without ever + seeing a human habitation; making such long day's journeys + as often to be without food or bedding, traversing passes + from sixteen to eighteen thousand feet above the sea, where + you can hardly breathe without pain; enduring pain, + sickness, and every other mortal ill, yet persevering still! + Poor creature, she is dying, I fear. It is evident that she + is in a deep consumption, created by a terrible fall she had + down a precipice, at the commencement of her journey. Well, + one day we met her between this place and Cashmere. She was + sixteen or twenty miles from her tents, and the rain and + darkness were coming on apace; the thermometer down below + fifty degrees. So we persuaded her to stop at our + encampment. I gave her my tent and cot, acted lady's maid, + supplied her with warm stockings and shoes, water, towels, + brushes, &c., and made her comfortable, and then we sat down + to dinner; and a pleasanter evening I never spent. She was + as gay as a lark, and poured out stores of information and + anecdotes, and recounted her adventures in the "spiritedest" + manner. After an early breakfast the next morning, I put her + on her pony, and she went on her way, and we saw her no + more. I hope she will live to reach the end of her journey, + and not die in some wild mountain-side unattended and alone. + +Another letter of same date:-- + + CAMP, KULSEE IN LADAKH, _August 4th, 1850_. + + ... Until you cross the mountain chain which separates + Cashmere from Tibet (or Thibet), all is green and beautiful. + It is impossible to imagine a finer combination of vast + peaks and masses of mountain, with green sloping lawns, + luxuriant foliage, and fine clustering woods, than is + displayed on the sides of the great chain which we usually + call the Himalaya, but which is better described as the + ridge which separates the waters of the Jhelum, Chenab, + Ravee, and Beas from those of the Indus. When once, however, + you have crossed this vast barrier, the scene changes as if + by magic, and you have nothing but huge convulsive-looking + masses of rock, tremendous mountains, glaciers, snow, and + valleys which are more vast watercourses than anything else. + On the more open and less elevated spots along these various + feeders of the Indus, one comes to little patches of + cultivation, rising from the banks of the rivers in tiers of + carefully prepared terraces, and irrigated by channels + carried along the sides of the hill from a point higher up + the stream. Here, in scattered villages ten and twenty miles + apart, live the ugliest race on earth, I should imagine, + whom we call Thibetians, but who style themselves "Bhots" or + "Bhods," and unite the characteristic features, or rather + want of them, of both Goorkhas and Chinese. I went yesterday + to see a monastery of their Llamas, the most curious sight, + as well as _site_, I ever beheld. Perched on the summit of a + mass of sandstone-grit, conglomerate pudding-stone, worn by + the melting snows (for there is no rain in Tibet) into + miraculous cones, steeples, and pinnacles rising abruptly + from the valley to the height of 600 feet, are a collection + of queer little huts, connected together by bridges, + passages, and staircases. In these dwell the worthies who + have betaken themselves to the life of religious mendicants + and priests. They seem to correspond exactly with the + travelling friars of olden times. Half stay at home to + perform chants and services in their convent chapel, and + half go a-begging about the country. They are not a distinct + race like the Brahmins of India, but each Bhot peasant + devotes one of two or three sons to the church, and he is + thenceforward devoted to a life of celibacy, of shaven + crown, of crimson apparel, of mendicancy, of idleness, and + of comfort. They all acknowledge spiritual allegiance to the + great Llama at Llassa (some two months' journey from + Ladakh), by whom the abbot of each convent is appointed on a + vacancy occurring, and to whom all their proceedings are + reported. Nunneries also exist on precisely the same + footing. I saw a few of the nuns, and their hideous + appearance fully justified their adoption of celibacy and + seclusion. From their connection with almost every family, + as I have said, they are universally looked up to and + supported as a class by the people. Even Hindoos reverence + them; and their power is not only feared, but I fancy + tolerably freely exercised. Their chapel (a flat-roofed + square building supported on pillars) is furnished with + parallel rows of low benches to receive the squatting + fathers. Their services consist of chants and recitative, + accompanied by the _dis_cord of musical(?) instruments and + drums, while perpetual lamps burn on the altars before their + idols, and a sickly perfume fills the air. Round the room + are rude shelves containing numberless volumes of religious + books; not bound, but in separate leaves secured between two + painted boards. I will try and send you one, if I can + corrupt the mind of some worthy Llama with profane silver. + They are genuine _block books_, strange to say, apparently + carved on wood, and then stamped on a Chinese paper. The + figures of their images, and their costume and head-dress + (_i. e._, of the images), are Chinese entirely, not at all + resembling the Bhot dress, or scarcely so, and though + fashioned by Thibetian hands, you might fancy yourself + gazing on the figures in the Chinese Exhibition at + Hyde-Park Corner. Their language is a sealed book to me, of + course, and though they all read and write well, yet they + were unable to explain the meaning of the words they were + repeating. The exterior appearance and sites of their + conventual buildings reminded me very strongly of the + drawings I saw in a copy of Curzon's "Monasteries of the + Levant," which fell in my way for five minutes one day. I + need hardly say that, in a country composed of mountains + ranging from 14,000 feet upwards, the scenery is magnificent + in the extreme, though very barren and savage. Apricots and + wheat are ripening in the valley whence I now write (on the + right bank of the Indus, some fifty miles below the town of + Ladakh), and snow is glistening on the summits above me; the + roads have been very easy indeed, and enabled us to make + long day's marches, from sixteen to twenty-five miles. This + is more than you could do in two days in the ranges south of + the Himalaya, with due regard for your own bones, and the + cattle or porters which carry your traps and tents. I am + very seedy, and twenty miles is more than I can ride with + comfort (that I should live to say it). I have not as yet + derived much, if any, benefit from change of climate. + + From Ladakh we go to Iskardo, some twelve marches lower down + the Indus, where it has been joined by the water of Yarkund; + and thence to Gilghit, a valley running up from that of the + Indus, still lower down, and bordering on Budakhstan. We + (Sir Henry Lawrence and I) then return to Cashmere; I expect + it will be two more months' journey. We have already been + out a fortnight, and it is very fatiguing. I am not sure + that I was wise in undertaking it, but he (Lawrence) is a + greater invalid than I am, and two or three men fought shy + of the task of accompanying him. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, ISKARDO (IN LITTLE THIBET,) _August, 25th, 1850_. + + Only think of my sitting down peaceably to write to you from + this outside world. Had I lived a hundred years ago, I + should have been deemed a great traveller, and considered to + have explored unknown countries, and unknown they are, only + the principal danger of visiting them is past, seeing that + they have been subdued by a power (Gholab Singh) with whom + we have "relations." Yet if I were to cross the mountains + which stare me in the face a few miles off, I should be + carried off and sold for a slave. It were vain to try to + compress the scenes of a two months' journey into a sheet of + note-paper. We have travelled very rapidly. Few men go the + pace Sir Henry Lawrence does. So we have covered a great + extent of country in the past month; and seeing that the + valleys are the only inhabited parts of the country, the + rest being huge masses of mountains, one really sees in + these rapid flights all that is to be seen of the abodes of + man. We have collected a good deal of information too, + which, if I had time to arrange it, might be of value. We + were eleven long days' journey from Cashmere to Ladakh, + besides halts on the way at Ladakh itself, or, as the people + call it, Leh. We remained a week, and saw all the + "foreigners" who came there to sell furs and silk. It is + called the "Great Emporium" of trade between Yarkund and + Kashgar and Llassa, and Hindostan. Fine words look well on + paper, but to my unsophisticated mind the "leading + merchants" seemed _peddlers_, and the "Emporium" to be a + brace of hucksters' shops. However, 'tis curious, that's a + fact, to see (and talk to) a set of men who have got their + goods from the yellow-haired Russians at the + Nishni-Novogorod fair, and brought them across Asia to sell + at Ladakh. It is forty days' journey, of almost a continuous + desert, for these caravans from Yarkund to Leh; and there is + no small danger to life and limb by the way. The current + coin is lumps of Chinese sycee silver of two pounds' weight + each. I bought a Persian horse for the journey, and paid for + it in solid silver four pounds weight: 166 rupees, or about + 16_l._ I shall sell it for double the money when the journey + is over. Leh is a small town, of not more than 400 houses, + on a projecting promontory of rock stretching out into the + valley formed by one of the small feeders of the Indus. For + the people, they are Bodhs, and wear tails, and have flat + features like the Chinese, and black garments. The women, + unlike other Asiatics whom I have seen, go about the streets + openly, as in civilized countries; but they are an ugly + race, and withal dirty to an absolutely unparalleled extent. + They wear no head-dress, but plait their masses of black + hair into sundry tails half way down their backs. Covering + the division of the hair from the forehead back and down the + shoulders, is a narrow leathern strap, universally adorned + with rough turquoises and bits of gold or silver. The old + Ranee whom we called upon had on this strap (in her case a + broader one, about three fingers wide) 156 large turquoises, + worth some hundreds of pounds. Over their ears they wear + flaps of fur which project forward with precisely the effect + of blinkers on a horse. + + The climate is delightful; it never rains; the sky is blue + to a fault, and snow only falls sparingly in winter, though + the climate is cold, being 10,000 feet (they say) above the + sea. In boiling water the thermometer was only 188 deg.. I never + felt a more exhilarating air. That one week quite set me up, + and I have been better ever since. The Llamas or monks, with + their red cardinal's hats and crimson robes, look very + imposing and monastic, quite a travesty of the regular + clergy, and they blow just such trumpets as Fame does on + monuments in country churches. Jolly friars they are, and + fat to a man. From Leh we crossed the mountain ridge which + separates the two streams of the Indus, and descended the + northern (or right) stream to this place, the capital of + Bultistan or Little Thibet. It is a genuine humbug. In the + middle of a fine valley, some 6,000 feet above the sea, + surrounded by sudden rising perpendicular mountains 6,000 + feet higher, stands an isolated rock washed by the Indus, + some two miles by three quarters: a little Gibraltar. The + valley may be ten miles by three, partially cultivated, and + inhabited by some 200 scattered houses. There's Iskardo. + There _was_ a fort on the rock, but that is gone, and all, + as usual in the East, bespeaks havoc; only nature is grand + here. The people are Mussulmans, and not Bodhs, and are more + human-looking, but not so well clad. It is warmer by far, + much more so than it ought to be. The thermometer was at 92 deg. + in our tents to-day, a thing for which I cannot possibly + account, since there is snow now on all sides of us. We go + hence across the Steppe of Deo Sole towards Cashmere for + four days' journey, and then strike westward to cross the + Indus into Gilghit, whence we return to Cashmere by the end + of September. We have been making very fast marches, varying + from sixteen to thirty-two miles a day,--hard work in a + country with such roads, and where you must take things with + you. I enjoy it very much, however, and after a year's + sickness, the feeling of returning health is refreshing. I + shall return to work again by the 1st of December; but I + propose paying a flying visit to Mr. Thomason in October, if + possible; but the distances are so vast, and the means of + locomotion so absent, that these things are difficult to + achieve. I suppose I have seen more of the hill country now + than ninety-nine men out of a hundred in India. Indeed, not + above four Europeans have been here before. But travelling + suits my restless spirit. Sir Henry and I get on famously + together. + +On October 7th, 1850, he writes from Simla to his father:-- + + I have had a long and fatiguing march from Cashmere across + the mountains and the valleys of the "five rivers," nearly + four hundred miles, which I accomplished in fifteen days. I + left Sir Henry Lawrence in Cashmere. I have since heard from + him, urging me to use all the influence I can muster up here + to procure a brevet majority in _posse_ (_i. e._ on + attaining my regimental captaincy), and a _local_ majority + in _esse_ for "my services in the late war;" and adding, + that if I did not find civil employment to suit me, he + would, when I had given it a fair trial, try and get me the + command of one of the regiments in the Punjaub. I am going + to consult Mr. Thomason on the subject, and will let you + know the result. I hate the least suspicion of toadyism, and + dislike asking favors, or I should have been better off ere + now; but on Sir Henry Lawrence's suggestion, I will + certainly use any opportunity which may offer. I thought, + however, you would be gratified with the opinion which must + have dictated so perfectly spontaneous an offer. I confess + that I very much prefer the military line myself, although I + like civil work much, and it is the road to competence. + Nevertheless, military rank and distinctions have more charm + for me than rupees; and I would rather _cut_ my way to a + name and poverty with the sword, than _write_ it to wealth + with the pen. + + There is something to me peculiarly interesting in the + _forming_ and _training_ soldiers, and in acquiring that + extraordinary influence over their minds, both by personal + volition and the aid of discipline, which leads them on + through danger, even to death, at your bidding. I felt the + enthusiasm of this power successfully exerted with the + Guides during the late war; and having felt it, am naturally + inclined to take advantage of it on future occasions. + + * * * * * + + _To his Sister._ + + SIMLA, _Oct 21st, 1850_. + + It is rather too late to tell you "all about Cashmere," as + you desire; but I _can_ say that I saw some beauties this + time who were really so to no common extent; and that I was + much more pleased with the valley than on my first visit, + which was a winter one. If you see what wonderfully + out-of-the-way places we got into, I think you will marvel + that I managed to write at all. We traversed upwards of + fifteen hundred miles of wild mountainous countries, + innocent of roads, and often, for days together, of + inhabitants, and carrying our houses on our backs. The + change to the utter comfort and civilization of this house + was something "stunning;" and I have not yet become quite + reconciled to dressing three times a day, black hat, and + patent leather boots. I need hardly say, however, that I + have very much enjoyed my visit and my "big talks" with Mr. + Thomason. He is very gray, and looks older than when I saw + him in 1847, but otherwise he is just the same, working + magnificently, and doing wonders for his province. Already + the Northwest Provinces are a century in advance of the + Bengal Proper ones. As a Governor he has not his equal; and + in honesty, high-mindedness, and indefatigable devotion to + the public good, he is _facile princeps_ of the whole Indian + service. Nor is there a household in India to match his, + indeed, it is about the only "big-wig" house to which people + go with pleasure rather than as a duty. I saw Sir Charles + Napier, too, and dined with him last week. He is very kind + and pleasant, and I am very sorry on public grounds that he + is going away. + + * * * * * + + KUSSOWLEE, _Nov. 4th, 1850_. + + I had a most pleasant home-like visit to Mr. Thomason, and + was most affectionately entertained. He will have told you + of the power of civility I met with at Simla from the + "big-wigs," and that even Lord Dalhousie waxed + complimentary, and said that "Lumsden and Hodson were about + the best men he had," (that I write it that shouldn't!) and + that he promised to do his best to get me a brevet majority + as soon as I became, in the course of time, a regimental + captain. And Sir Charles Napier (the best abused man of his + day) was anxious to get for me the Staff appointment of + Brigade-Major to the Punjaub Irregular Force,--_i. e._, of + the six newly raised cavalry and infantry regiments for + frontier service. He did not succeed, for the berth had been + previously filled up unknown to him; but he _tried to do_ + so, and that's a compliment from such a man. I hope I need + not say that this good deed of his was as spontaneous as a + mushroom's birth. + + * * * * * + + _To his Father._ + + KUSSOWLEE, _Nov. 6th_. + + I am to be here next year, I find, by tidings just received, + which will be a splendid thing for my constitution. My + connection with Umritsur is dissolved by my having been + appointed to act as personal assistant to the Commissioner + of the Cis-Sutlej States, which is, I believe, a piece of + promotion. The great advantages are, first, the capital + opportunity it affords of experience in every kind of civil + work, and of being under a very able man,--Mr. Edmonstone; + and secondly, that the Commissioner's head-quarters are + "peripatetic" in the cold weather, and in the hills during + the remainder of the year. But I confess that I hanker after + the "Guides" as much as ever, and would catch at a good + opportunity of returning to them with honor. I fear I have + been remiss in explanations on this subject. The matter lies + in this wise,--I left the Corps and took to civil employment + at the advice of Sir Henry Lawrence, Mr. Thomason, and + others, though against my own feelings on the subject. The + man or men who succeeded me are senior to me in army rank. + When one of them resigned six months ago, I was strongly + disposed and urged to try and succeed to the vacancy. There + was a hitch, however, from the cause I have mentioned, and + Lumsden was anxious that his lieutenants should not be + disgusted by supersession. I might have had the appointment, + but withdrew to avoid annoying Lumsden. _Now_, both Sir + Henry Lawrence and Mr. Thomason are very sorry that I ever + left the Corps, and that they advised the step. Things have + taken a different turn since then, and it is confessedly the + best thing a young soldier can aspire to. I know that my + present line is one which leads to more pecuniary + advantages; but the other is the finer field, and is far + more independent. I shall work away, however, cheerfully in + the civil line until I see a good opening in the other; and + _then_, I fear you will hardly persuade me that sitting at a + desk with the thermometer at 98 deg. is better than + soldiering,--_i. e._, than _commanding_ soldiers made and + taught by yourself! I will give you the earliest warning of + the change. + + * * * * * + + UMRITSUR, _Nov. 24th, 1850_. + + I returned here on the 16th, and have been up to the neck in + work ever since, having the whole work, civil, criminal, + police, &c. &c., on my shoulders, Saunders, the Deputy + Commissioner, my superior, being engaged dancing attendance + on the Governor-General, who is here on his annual tour of + inspection; and Macleod, my co-assistant, dead. Directly the + Governor-General has gone onwards I shall be relieved here, + and join my new appointment with Mr. Edmonstone. + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _Jan. 2d, 1851_. + + I broke up from Umritsur early in December, and came into + Lahore to join my new chief. He did not arrive till the + 18th, so I had a comparative holiday. I have got into + harness, however, again now, and am up to the elbows in work + and papers. The work is much more pleasant than that I had + at Umritsur, and more free from mere routine. + + * * * * * + + LAHORE, _Feb. 21st_. + + This is an interesting anniversary to many of us, and an + overwhelming one to this country,--that of the day on which + "the bright star of the Punjaub" set forever. It has been + curiously marked by the announcement, that the net balance + of receipts over expenditure for the past year, for the + newly acquired provinces, has reached upwards of a million + sterling. Lord Dalhousie's star is in the ascendant. His + financial measures are apparently all good, when tried by + the only standard admissible in the nineteenth + century,--their success. + + * * * * * + + KUSSOWLEE, _March 22d, 1851_. + + I broke down again most completely as soon as the hot + weather began, but my flight to this beautiful climate has + wonderfully refreshed me. Talk of Indian luxuries! There are + but two, cold water and cool air! I get on very comfortably + with my new "Chief." He is a first-rate man, and has a most + uncommon appetite for work, of which there is plenty for + both of us. We cover a good stretch of country--comprising + five British districts and nine sovereign states; and as the + whole has been in grievous disorder for many years, and a + peculiarly difficult population to deal with, you may + imagine that the work is not slight. My principal duty is + hearing appeals from orders and decisions by the district + officers in these five districts. It is of course not "per + se," but as the Commissioner's personal assistant, that I do + this. I prepare a short abstract, with my opinion on each + case, and he issues his orders accordingly. I was at work a + whole day lately over one case, which, after all, involved + only a claim to about a quarter of an acre of land! You will + give me credit for ingenuity in discovering that the result + of some half dozen quires of written evidence was to prove + that _neither_ of the contending parties had any right at + all! If that's not "justice to Ireland," I don't know what + is! I have been staying with Captain Douglas, and I hope I + shall see a great deal of him. There is not a better man or + more genuine soldier going. This may appear faint praise, + but rightly understood, and conscientiously and boldly + worked out, I doubt whether any other profession calls forth + the higher qualities of our nature more strongly than does + that of a soldier in times of war and tumults. Certain it is + that it requires the highest order of man to be a good + general, and in the lower ranks, (in this country + especially,) even with all the frightful drawbacks and + evils, I doubt whether the Saxon race is ever so preeminent, + or its good points so strongly developed, as in the + "European" soldier serving in India, or on service anywhere. + + * * * * * + + KUSSOWLEE, _April 7th, 1851_. + + I have the nicest house here on a level spot on the very + summit of the mountain ridge, from which a most splendid + view is obtainable for six months in the year. In the + immediate foreground rises a round-backed ridge, on which + stands the former work of my hands, the "Lawrence Asylum;" + while to the westward, and down, down far off in the + interminable south, the wide glistening plains of the + Punjaub, streaked with the faint ribbon-like lines of the + Sutlej and its tributaries, and the wider sea-like expanse + of Hindostan, stretch away in unbroken evenness beyond the + limits of vision, and almost beyond those of faith and + imagination. On the other side you look over a mass of + mountains up to the topmost peaks of Himalaya. So narrow is + the ridge, that it seems as though you could toss a pebble + from one window into the Sutlej, and from the other into the + valley below Simla. I like the place very much. I have seven + or eight hours' work every day, and the rest is spent (as + this one) in the society of the 60th Rifles, the very nicest + and most gentlemanly regiment I ever met with. + + * * * * * + + KUSSOWLEE, _May 4th, 1851_. + + Your budget of letters reached me on the 2d. It is very + pleasant to receive these warm greetings, and it refreshes + me when bothered, or overworked, or feverish, or disgusted. + I look forward to a visit to England and _home_ with a + pleasure which nothing but six years of exile can give. + + The Governor-General has at last advanced me to the higher + grade of "Assistants" to Commissioners. The immediate + advantage is an increase of pay,--the real benefit, that it + brings me nearer the main step of a Deputy Commissioner in + charge of a district. It is satisfactory, not the less so + that it was extorted from him by the unanimity of my + official superiors in pressing the point upon him, Mr. + Edmonstone having commenced attacking him in my favor before + I had been under him four months. I am not in love with the + kind of employment,--I long with no common earnestness for + the more military duties of my old friends the "Guides;" but + I am not therefore insensible to the advantages of doing + well in this line of work. Ambition alone would dictate + this, for my success in this civil business (which is + considered the highest and most arduous branch of the public + service) almost insures my getting on in any other + hereafter. + + * * * * * + + _To Rev. E. Harland._ + + KUSSOWLEE, _June 11th, 1851_. + + I fancy the change is as great in myself as in either. The + old visions of boyhood have given place to the vehement + aspirations of a military career and the interests of a + larger ambition. I thirst now not for the calm pleasures of + a country life, the charms of society, or a career of ease + and comfort, but for the maddening excitement of war, the + keen contest of wits involved in dealing with wilder men, + and the exercise of power over the many by force of the will + of the individual. Nor am I, I hope, insensible to the vast + field for good and for usefulness which these vast provinces + offer to our energies, and to the high importance of the + trust committed to our charge. + + * * * * * + + _To his Father._ + + KUSSOWLEE, _Oct 20th, 1851_. + + I am much stronger now, and improving rapidly. By the end of + next summer I hope to be as strong as I ever hope to be + again. That I shall ever again be able to row from Cambridge + to Ely in two hours and ten minutes, to run a mile in five + minutes, or to walk from Skye (or Kyle Hatren Ferry) to + Inverness in thirty hours, is not to be expected, or perhaps + desired. But I have every hope that in the event of another + war I may be able to endure fatigue and exposure as freely + as in 1848. One is oftener called upon to ride than to walk + long distances in India. In 1848, I could ride one hundred + miles in ten hours, fully accoutred, and I don't care how + soon (saving your presence!) the necessity arises again! I + have no doubt that matrimony will do me a power of good, and + that I shall be not only better, but happier and more + care-less than hitherto. + + I have been deeply grieved and affected by the death, two + days ago, of Colonel Bradshaw, of the 60th Rifles. He will + be a sad loss, not only to his regiment, but to the army and + the country. He was the _beau ideal_ of an English soldier + and gentleman, and would have earned himself a name as a + General had he been spared. A finer and nobler spirit there + was not in the army. I feel it as a deep personal loss, for + he won my esteem and regard in no common degree. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + + MARRIAGE.--COMMAND OF THE GUIDES.--FRONTIER + WARFARE.--MURDAN. + + +On the 5th of January, 1852, Lieut. Hodson was married, at the +Cathedral, Calcutta, to Susan, daughter of Capt. C. Henry, R. N., and +widow of John Mitford, Esq., of Exbury, Hants. By the first week in +March he had resumed his duties at Kussowlee as Assistant +Commissioner. On the breaking out of the war with Burmah he expected +to rejoin his regiment, (the First Bengal European Fusileers,) which +had been ordered for service there, but in August he writes from +Kussowlee:-- + + My regiment is on its way down the Ganges to Calcutta, to + take part in the war, but the Burmese have proved so very + unformidable an enemy this time, that only half the intended + force is to be sent on from Calcutta; the rest being held in + reserve. Under these circumstances, and in the expectation + that the war will very speedily be brought to a close, the + Governor-General has determined not to allow officers on + civil employment to join their regiments in the usual + manner. I am thus spared what would have been a very + fatiguing and expensive trip, with very little hope of + seeing any fighting. + +It was not long, however, before an opportunity of seeing active +service presented itself, and in a way, of all others, most to his +taste. His heart had all along been with his old corps, "the Guides," +as his letters show. He had taken an active share in raising and +training them originally, and, as second in command during the Punjaub +campaign of 1848-9, had contributed in no small degree to gain for the +Corps that reputation which it has recently so nobly sustained before +Delhi. + +The command was now vacant, and was offered to him; but I must let him +speak for himself:-- + + KUSSOWLEE, _Sept. 23d, 1852_. + + Lumsden, my old Commandant in the Guides, goes to England + next month, and the Governor-General has given me the + command which I have coveted so long. It is immense good + fortune in every way, both as regards income and + distinction. It is accounted the most honorable and arduous + command on the frontier, and fills the public eye, as the + papers say, more than any other. + + This at the end of seven years' service is a great thing, + especially on such a frontier as Peshawur, at the mouth of + the Kyber Pass. You will agree with me in rejoicing at the + opportunities for distinction thus offered to me. + + Mr. Thomason writes thus: "I congratulate you very sincerely + on the fine prospect that is open to you, and trust that + you will have many opportunities of showing what the Guides + can do under your leadership. I have never ceased to + reproach myself for advising you to leave the Corps, but now + that you have the command, you will be all the better for + the dose of civilianism that has been intermediately + administered to you." + + * * * * * + + KUSSOWLEE, _Oct. 7th, 1852_. + + Here I am, still, but hoping to take wing for Peshawur in a + few days. It is only 500 miles; and, as there are no + railways, and only nominal roads, and five vast rivers to + cross, you may suppose that the journey is not one of a few + hours' lounge. + + I am most gratified by the appointment to the command of the + Guides, and more so by the way in which it was given me, and + the manner of my selection from amidst a crowd of aspirants. + It is no small thing for a subaltern to be raised to the + command of a battalion of infantry and a squadron and a half + of cavalry, with four English officers under him! I am + supposed to be the luckiest man of my time. I have already + had an offer from the Military Secretary to the Board of + Administration to exchange appointments with him, although I + should gain, and he would lose 200_l._ a year by the "swop;" + but I would not listen to him; I prefer the saddle to the + desk, the frontier to a respectable, wheel-going, + dinner-giving, dressy life at the capital; and--ambition to + money! + +But though his "instincts were so entirely military," (to use his own +words,) this did not prevent his discharging his civil duties in a +manner that called forth the highest eulogium from his superiors, as +the subjoined letter from Mr. Edmonstone, now Secretary to Government +at Calcutta, will testify:-- + + "KUSSOWLEE, _Oct. 12th, 1852_. + + "MY DEAR HODSON,--I am a bad hand at talking, and could not + say what I wished, but I would not have you go away without + thanking you heartily for the support and assistance which + you have always given me in all matters, whether big or + little, since you joined me, now twenty months and more ago. + I have in my civil and criminal reports for the past year + recorded my sense of your services, and your official + merits, but our connection has been peculiar, and your + position has been one which few would have filled either so + efficiently or so agreeably to all parties. You have + afforded me the greatest aid in the most irksome part of my + duty, and have always with the utmost readiness undertaken + anything, no matter what, that I asked you to dispose of, + and I owe you more on this account than a mere official + acknowledgment can repay adequately. I hope that though your + present appointment will give you more congenial duties and + better pay, you will never have occasion to look back to the + time you have passed here with regret; and I hope too that + all your anticipations of pleasure and pride, in commanding + the Corps which you had a chief hand in forming, may be + realized. + + "Believe me to be, with much regard, + "Yours very sincerely, + "G. F. EDMONSTONE." + + * * * * * + + CAMP IN HUZARA, _Dec. 16th, 1852_. + + I took command of the Guides on the 1st November, and + twenty-four hours afterwards marched "on service" to this + country, which is on the eastern or left bank of the Indus, + above the parallel of Attok. We are now in an elevated + valley, surrounded by snowy mountains, and mighty cold it + is, too, at night. We have come about 125 miles from + Peshawur, and having marched up the hill, are patiently + expecting the order to march down again. We have everything + necessary for a pretty little mountain campaign but an + enemy. This is usually a _sine qua non_ in warfare, but not + so now. Then we have to take a fort, only it has ceased to + exist months ago; and to reinstate an Indian ally in + territories from which he was expelled by some neighbors, + only he wont be reinstated at any price. + + My regiment consists of five English officers, including a + surgeon, Dr. Lyell, a very clever man. Then I have 300 + horse, including native officers, and 550 foot, or 850 men + in all, divided into three troops and six companies,[15] the + latter armed as riflemen. My power is somewhat despotic, as + I have authority to enlist or dismiss from the service, flog + or imprison, degrade or promote any one, from the native + officers downwards, always remembering that an abuse of + power might lose me the whole. This sort of chiefdom is + necessary with a wild sort of gentry of various races and + speeches, gathered from the snows of the Hindoo Koosh and + the Himalaya, to the plains of Scinde and Hindostan, all of + whom are more quick at blows than at words, and more + careless of human life than you could possibly understand in + England by any description. I am likely to have civil charge + as well as military command of the Euzofzai district, + comprising that portion of the great Peshawur valley which + lies between the Cabul River and the Indus. So you see I am + not likely to eat the bread of idleness at least. I will + tell you more of my peculiar duties when I have more + experience of their scope and bent.... I am, I should say, + the most fortunate man in the service, considering my + standing. The other candidates were all field-officers of + some standing. + + Our good friend and guest, Captain Powys, of the 60th, who + has spent the first six months of our married life under our + roof, is on the way to England. He will see you very soon, + and give you a better account of us than you could hope for + from any one else. + +Notwithstanding all appearance to the contrary at its opening, the +campaign lasted seven weeks, and supplied plenty of fighting. It was +afterwards characterized by my brother as the hardest piece of service +he had yet seen. One engagement lasted from sunrise to sunset. He had +thus an opportunity of displaying his usual gallantry and coolness, +and showing how well he could handle his "Guides" in mountain warfare. +They suffered much from cold, as the ground was covered with snow for +a part of the time, and from want of supplies. + +Colonel (now Sir R.) Napier, speaking afterwards of this expedition, +said:-- + +"Your brother's unfailing fun and spirits, which seemed only raised by +what we had to go through, kept us all alive and merry, so that we +looked back upon it afterwards as a party of pleasure, and thought we +had never enjoyed anything more." + +In reply to congratulations on his appointment, my brother wrote +from-- + + PESHAWUR, _March 13th, 1853_. + + I have certainly been very fortunate indeed, and only hope + that I may be enabled to acquit myself of the trust well and + honorably, both in the field and in the more political + portion of my duties. It was a good thing that I had the + opportunity of leading the regiment into action so soon + after getting the command, and that the brunt of the whole + should have fallen upon us, as it placed the older men and + myself once more on our old footing of confidence in one + another, and introduced me to the younger hands as their + leader when they needed one. Susie says she told you all + about it; I need therefore only add that it was the hardest + piece of service, while it lasted, I have yet seen with the + Guides, both as regards the actual fighting, the + difficulties of the ground, (a rugged mountain, 7,000 feet + high, and densely wooded,) and the exposure. You will see + little or no mention of it publicly, it being the policy of + Government to make everything appear as quiet as possible on + this frontier, and to blazon the war on the eastern side of + the empire (some 2,000 miles away) as much as they can. I + am, as you justly imagined, to be employed both civilly and + in a military capacity,--at least, it is under discussion. + I was asked to take charge of the wild district of + "Euzofzai," (forming a large portion of the Peshawur + province,) where the Guides will ordinarily be stationed. I + refused to do so unless I had the exclusive civil charge in + all departments, magisterial, financial, and judicial, + instead of in the former only, as proposed, and I fancy they + will give in to my reasons. I shall then be military chief, + and civil governor, too, as far as that part of the valley + is concerned, and shall have enough on my hands, as you may + suppose. In the mean time, I shall have the superintendence + of the building of a fort to contain us all,--not such a + fortress as Coblentz, or those on the Belgian frontier, but + a mud structure, which answers all the purposes we require + at a very, very small cost. + + * * * * * + + PESHAWUR, _April 30th, 1853_. + + I am sorry to say my wife is ordered to the hills, and we + shall again be separated for five or six months. My own + destination for the hot season is uncertain, but I expect to + be either here, or on the banks of the Indus. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, NEAR PESHAWUR, _June 4th, 1853_. + + ... I hope to get away from work and heat in August or + September for a month, if all things remain quiet. But for + this sad separation, there would be much charm for me in + this gypsy life. To avoid the great heats of the next three + months in tents, we are building huts for ourselves of + thatch, and mine is assuming the dignity of mud walls. We + are encamped on a lovely spot, on the banks of the swift + and bright river, at the foot of the hills, on the watch for + incursions or forays, and to guard the richly cultivated + plain of the Peshawur valley from depredations from the + hills. We are ready, of course, to boot and saddle at all + hours; our rifles and carabines are loaded, and our swords + keen and bright; and woe to the luckless chief who, trusting + to his horses, descends upon the plain too near our pickets! + Meanwhile, I am civil as well as military chief, and the + natural taste of the Euzofzai Pathans for broken heads, + murder, and violence, as well as their litigiousness about + their lands, keeps me very hard at work from day to day. + Perhaps the life may be more suited to a careless bachelor, + than to a husband with such a wife as mine; but even still + it has its charms for an active mind and body. A daybreak + parade or inspection, a gallop across the plain to some + outpost, a plunge in the river, and then an early breakfast, + occupy your time until 9 A. M. Then come a couple of corpses + whose owners (late) had their heads broken overnight, and + consequent investigations and examinations; next a batch of + villagers to say their crops are destroyed by a storm, and + no rents forthcoming. Then a scream of woe from a plundered + farm on the frontier, and next a grain-dealer, to say his + camels have been carried off to the hills. "Is not this a + dainty dish to set before--your brother." Then each of my + nine hundred men considers me bound to listen to any amount + of stories he may please to invent or remember of his own + private griefs and troubles; and last, not least, there are + four young gentlemen who have each his fancy, and who often + give more trouble in transacting business than assistance in + doing it. However, I have no right to complain, for I am + about, yes, quite, the most fortunate man in the service; + and have I not the right to call myself the happiest also, + with such a wife and such a home? + + * * * * * + + CAMP, NEAR PESHAWUR, _August 6th, 1853_. + + I hear that the new system for India is to throw open + Addiscombe and Haileybury to public competition; that this + public competition will be fair and open, and free from + jobbery and patronage, I suppose no sane person in the 19th + century, acquainted with public morals and public bodies, + would believe for an instant. The change may, however, + facilitate admission into the service to well-crammed boys. + There are, I doubt not, many clever and able men who would + in a year put any boy with tolerable abilities into a state + of intellectual coma, which would enable him to write out + examination papers by the dozen, and pass a triumphant + examination in paper-military affairs. I am not called upon + to state how much of it would avail in the hour of strife + and danger. India is, _par excellence_, the country for poor + men who have hard constitutions and strong stomachs. I fear + you will add, when you have read thus far, that it is not + favorable to charity, or to the goodness which, under the + pious wish to think no evil, gives every one credit for + everything, and believes that words mean what they appear to + express, and that language conveys some idea of the thoughts + of the speaker!... It is very trying that I cannot be with + Susie at Murree; but with a people such as these it is not + safe to be absent, lest the volcano should break out afresh. + Since I began this sheet a dust-storm has covered everything + on my table completely with sand. My pen is clogged, and my + inkstand choked, and my eyes full of dust! What am I to do? + Oh, the pleasures of the tented field in August in the + valley of Peshawur! It has been very hot indeed, lately. We + have barely in our huts had the thermometer under 100 deg., and + a very steamy, stewy heat it is, into the bargain. + + * * * * * + + MURREE, _Sept. 14th, 1853_. + + I am enjoying a little holiday from arms and cutchery up in + the cool here with Susie. Murree is not more than 140 miles + from Peshawur. You say that you do not know "what I mean by + hills in my part of India." This is owing to the badness of + the maps. The fact is, that the whole of the upper part of + the country watered by the five rivers is mountainous. The + Himalaya extends from the eastern frontiers of India to + Affghanistan, where it joins the "Hindoo Koosh," or + Caucasus. If you draw a line from Peshawur, through Rawul + Pindee, to Simla or Subathoo, or any place marked on the + maps thereabouts, you may assume that all to the north of + that line is mountain country. Another chain runs from + Peshawur, down the right bank of the Indus to the sea. At + Attok the mountains close in upon the river, or more + correctly speaking, the river emerges from the mountains, + and the higher ranges end there. The Peshawur valley is a + wide open plain, lying on the banks of the Cabul River, + about sixty miles long by forty broad, encircled by + mountains, some of them covered with snow for eight or nine + months of the year. Euzofzai is the northeastern portion of + this valley, embraced between the Cabul River and the Indus. + Half of Euzofzai (the "abode of the children of Joseph") is + mountain, but we only hold the level or plain part of it. + Nevertheless, a large part of my little province is very + hilly. In the northeast corner of Euzofzai, hanging over the + Indus, is a vast lump of a hill, called "Mahabun" (or the + "great forest"), thickly peopled on its slopes, and giving + shelter to some 12,000 armed men, the bitterest bigots which + even Islam can produce. The hill is about 7,800 feet above + the level of the sea. This has been identified by the wise + men with the Aornos of Arrian, and Alexander is supposed to + have crossed the Indus at its foot. Whether he did so or not + I am not "at liberty to mention," but it is certain that + Nadir Shah, in one of his incursions into India, marched his + host to the top of it, and encamped there. This gives color + to the story that the Macedonian did the same. As in all + ages, there are dominating points which are seized on by men + of genius when engaged in the great game of war. The great + principles of war seem to change as little as the natural + features of the country. Well, you will see how a mountain + range running "slantingdicularly" across the Upper Punjaub + contains many nice mountain tops suited to Anglo-Saxon + adventurers. If you can find Rawul Pindee on the maps, you + may put your finger on Murree, about twenty-five miles, as + the crow flies, to the northeast. You should get a map of + the Punjaub, Cashmere, and Iskardo, published by Arrowsmith + in 1847. George sent me two of them. They are the best + published maps I have seen. As to the Euzofzai fever, that + is, I am happy to say, now over. It was terrible while it + lasted. Between the 1st March and the 15th June, 1853, 8,352 + persons died out of a population of 53,500. It was very + similar to typhus, but had some symptoms of yellow fever. It + was confined to natives. It appeared to be contagious or + infectious, but I am so entirely skeptical as to the + existence of either contagion or infection in these Indian + complaints, that I cannot bring myself to believe that the + appearances were real. + + Poor Colonel Mackison, the Commissioner at Peshawur, (the + chief civil and political officer for the frontier), was + stabbed, a few days ago, by a fanatic, while sitting in his + veranda reading. The fellow was from Swat, and said he had + heard that we were going to invade his country, and that he + would try to stop it, and go to heaven as a martyr for the + faith. Poor Mackison is still alive, but in a very + precarious state, I fear. I hope this may induce Government + to take strong measures with the hill-tribes. + +He had soon to mourn the loss of a still more valued friend:-- + + _Oct. 15th, 1853_. + + You will have been much shocked at hearing of poor dear Mr. + Thomason's death. + + It is an irreparable loss to his family and friends, but it + will be even more felt in his public capacity. He had not + been ill, but died from sheer debility and exhaustion, + produced by overwork and application in the trying season + just over. Had he gone to the hills, all would have been + right. I cannot but think that he sacrificed himself as an + example to others. You may imagine how much I have felt the + loss of my earliest and best friend in India, to whom I was + accustomed to detail all my proceedings, and whom I was wont + to consult in every difficulty and doubt. + +On the 2d November he wrote from Rawul Pindee to announce the birth of +a daughter. He had been obliged previously to return to his duties; +but, by riding hard all night, had been able to be with his wife at +the time, and, after greeting the little stranger, had immediately to +hasten back to his Guides on the frontier. + +The Government, with a view to secure the Kohat Pass, were now +preparing an expedition against the refractory tribe of the Borees, +one of the bravest and wildest of the Affghan race, in order to prove +that their hills and valleys were accessible to our troops. + +Accordingly, a force consisting of 400 men of her Majesty's 22d, 450 +Goorkhas, 450 Guides, and the mountain train, marched at 4 A.M. on the +morning of the 29th November, under the command of Brigadier Boileau, +to attack the villages in the Boree valley. + +I must supply the loss of my brothers own account by a letter from an +officer with the expedition:-- + + "Our party, after crossing the hills between Kundao and the + main Affreedee range at two points, reunited in the valley + at 10.30 A.M., and with the villages of the Borees before us + at the foot of some precipitous crags. These it at once + became apparent must be carried before the villages could be + attacked and destroyed. The service devolved on two + detachments of the Goorkhas and Guides, commanded by + Lieutenants Hodson and Turner, and the style in which these + gallant fellows did their work, and drove the enemy from + crag to rock and rock to crag, and finally kept them at bay + from 11 A. M. to 3 P. M., was the admiration of the whole + force. We could plainly see the onslaught, especially a + fierce struggle that lasted a whole hour, for the possession + of a breastwork, which appeared inaccessible from below, but + was ultimately carried by the Guides, in the face of the + determined opposition of the Affreedees, who fought for + every inch of ground. + + "Depend upon it, this crowning of the Boree heights was one + of the finest pieces of light infantry performance on + record. It was, moreover, one which Avitabile, with 10,000 + Sikhs, was unable to accomplish. During these operations on + the hill, the villages were burnt, and it was only the want + of powder which prevented the succession of towers which + flanked them being blown into the air. The object of the + expedition having been thus fully achieved, the skirmishers + were recalled at about three, and then the difficulties of + the detachment commenced; for, as is well known, the + Affghans are familiar with the art of following, though they + will rarely meet an enemy. The withdrawal of the Guides and + Goorkhas from the heights was most exciting, and none but + the best officers and the best men could have achieved this + duty with such complete success. Lieutenant Hodson's tactics + were of the most brilliant description, and the whole force + having been once more reunited in the plain, they marched + out of the valley by the Turoonee Pass, which, though + farthest from the British camp, was the shortest to the + outer plains. The force did not return to camp till between + ten and eleven at night, having been out nearly eighteen + hours, many of the men without food, and almost all without + water, the small supply which had been carried out having + soon been exhausted, and none being procurable at Boree. + + "Not an officer of the detachment was touched, and only + eight men killed and twenty-four wounded. When the force + first entered the valley, there were not more than 200 + Borees in arms to resist; but before they returned, the + number had increased to some 3,000,--tens and twenties + pouring in all the morning from all the villages and hamlets + within many miles, intelligence of the attack being conveyed + to them by the firing." + +My brother's services on this occasion were thus acknowledged by the +Brigadier commanding, Colonel Boileau, her Majesty's 22d Regiment, in +a despatch dated Nov. 29th, 1853:-- + + "To the admirable conduct of Lieutenant Hodson in + reconnoitring, in the skilful disposition of his men, and + the daring gallantry with which he led his fine Corps in + every advance, most of our success is due; for the safety of + the whole force while in the valley of the Tillah depended + on his holding his position, and I had justly every + confidence in his vigilance and valor. + + + (Signed) + "J. B. BOILEAU, + + "_Brigadier Commanding the Force + at Boree_." + + + "To Lieutenant W. S. R. Hodson, I beg you will express my + particular thanks for the great service he rendered the + force under your command, by his ever gallant conduct, which + has fully sustained the reputation he has so justly acquired + for courage, coolness, and determination. + + (Signed) + "W. M. GOMM, + + "_Commander-in-Chief_." + + +Before Christmas, to his great delight, he was joined in camp by his +wife and child. The following letters bring out still more prominently +the tender loving side of his character, both as a father and a son:-- + + _To his Father._ + + CAMP, MURDAN, EUZOFZAI, _Jan. 2d, 1854_. + + I have been sadly long in answering your last most welcome + letter, but I have been so terribly driven from pillar to + post, that I have always been unable to sit down at the + proper time. My long holiday with dear Susie, and + journeyings to and fro to see her at Murree, and our short + campaign against the Affreedees in November, threw me into a + sea of arrears which was terrible to contemplate, and still + worse to escape from. I am now working all day and half the + night, and cannot as yet make much impression on them. + + I wish you could see your little grand-daughter being nursed + by a rough-looking Affghan soldier or bearded Sikh, and + beginning life so early as a dweller in tents. She was + christened by Mr. Clarke, one of the Church Missionaries who + happened to be in Peshawur. The chaplain, who ought to have + been there, was amusing himself somewhere, and we could not + catch a spare parson for a fortnight. + + You evidently do not appreciate the state of things in these + provinces. There are but two churches in the Punjaub; and + there will be an electric telegraph to Peshawur before a + church is commenced there, though the station has been one + for four years. In the first season, a large Roman Catholic + Chapel was built there, and an Italian priest from the + Propaganda busy in his vocation. I offered Mr. C. all the + aid in my power, though I told him candidly that I thought + he had not much chance of success here. A large sum has been + raised at Peshawur for the Mission, but unfortunately they + have gone wild with theories about the lost tribes and + fulfilment of prophecies respecting the Jews, which has + given a somewhat visionary character to their plans. Mr. C. + wanted me to think that these Euzofzai Pathans were + Ben-i-Israel, and asked me whether I had heard them call + themselves so; and he was aghast when I said they were as + likely to talk of Ben d'Israeli. All I can say is, that if + they be "lost tribes," I only wish they would find out a + home somewhere else among their cousins, and give me less + trouble.... My second in command was stabbed in the back by + a fanatic the other day while on parade, and has had a + wonderful escape for his life. + + You would so delight in your little grand-daughter. She is a + lovely good little darling; as happy as possible, and + wonderfully quick and intelligent for her months. I would + give worlds to be able to run home and see you, and show you + my child, but I fear much that, unless I find a "nugget," it + is vain to hope for so much pleasure just now. Meantime, I + have every blessing a man can hope for, and not the least + is that of your fond and much prized affection. + +A few months later, again apologizing for long silence, he says:-- + + _May 1st._ + + In addition to the very onerous command of 876 wild men and + 300 wild horses, and the charge of the civil administration + of a district almost as lawless as Tipperary, I have had to + build, and superintend the building of, a fort to give cover + to the said men and horses, including also within its walls + three houses for English officers, a police station, and a + native collector's office. He who builds in India builds not + in the comfortable acceptation of the term which obtains at + home. He sends not for his Barry or his Basevi; calls not + for a design and specifications, and then beholds his house, + and pays his bill; but he builds as Noah may have built the + Ark. + + Down to the minutest detail of carpentry, smithery, and + masonry, and of "muddery," too, for that matter, he must + know what he is about, and show others what to do, or + good-bye to his hopes for a house. + + Altogether, I am often fourteen hours a day at hard work, + and obliged to listen for a still longer period. + + Our poor little darling had a very severe attack of fever + the other day, but is now well again, and getting strong. I + never see her without wishing that she was in her + grandfather's arms. You would so delight in her little baby + tricks and ways. She is the very delight of our lives, and + we look forward with intense interest to her beginning to + talk and crawl about. Both she and her dear mother will have + to leave for the hills very soon, I am sorry to say. We try + to put off the evil day, but I dare not expose either of my + treasures to the heat of Euzofzai or Peshawur for the next + three months.... The young lady already begins to show a + singularity of taste,--refusing to go to the arms of any + native women, and decidedly preferring the male population, + some of whom are distinguished by her special favor. Her own + orderly, save the mark, never tires of looking at her + "beautiful white fingers," nor she of twisting them into his + black beard,--an insult to an Oriental, which he bears with + an equanimity equal to his fondness for her. The cunning + fellows have begun to make use of her too, and when they + want anything, ask the favor in the name of Lilli Baba (they + cannot manage "Olivia" at all). They know the spell is + potent. + +The following letters from his wife's pen give a lively picture of +"domestic" life in the wilderness, and of the wilderness itself:-- + + "_January, 1854._ + + "Picture to yourself an immense plain, flat as a billiard + table, but not as green, with here and there a dotting of + camel thorn about eighteen inches high, by way of + vegetation. This far as the eye can reach on the east, west, + and south of us, but on the north the lasting snows of the + mighty Himalaya glitter and sparkle like a rosy diadem above + the lower range, which is close to our camp. What would you + say to life in such a wilderness? or how would you stare to + see the officers sit down to table with sword and pistol? + The baby never goes for an airing without a guard of armed + horsemen; what a sensation such a cortege would create in + Hyde Park!" + + * * * * * + + "_April 15th._ + + "You ask for some detail of our life out here, and the + history of one day will be a picture of every one, with + little variation. + + "At the first bugle, soon after daylight, W. gets up and + goes to parade, and from thence to superintend the + proceedings at the fort. + + "By nine o'clock we are both ready for breakfast, after + which W. disappears into his business tent, where he + receives regimental reports, examines recruits, whether men + or horses, superintends stores and equipments, hears + complaints, and settles disputes, &c. &c. The regimental + business first dispatched, then comes 'kutcherry,' or civil + court matters, receiving petitions, adjusting claims, with a + still longer &c. You may have some small idea of the amount + of this work, when I tell you that during the month of March + he disposed of twenty-one serious criminal cases, such as + murder, and 'wounding with intent,' and nearly 300 charges + of felony, larceny, &c. At two o'clock he comes in for a + look at his bairn, and a glass of wine. Soon after five a + cup of tea, and then we order the horses, and in the saddle + till nearly eight, when I go with him again to the fort, the + garden, and the roads, diverging occasionally to fix the + site of a new village, a well, or a watercourse. + + "You can understand something of the delight of galloping + over the almost boundless plain in the cool, fresh air, (for + the mornings and evenings are still lovely,) with the ground + now enamelled with sweet-scented flowers, and the + magnificent mountains nearest us assuming every possible hue + which light and shadow can bestow. On our return to camp, W. + hears more reports till dinner, which is sometimes shared + by the other officers, or chance guests. + + "When we are alone, as soon as dinner is over, the letters + which have arrived in the evening are examined, classified, + and descanted on, sometimes answered; and I receive my + instructions for next day's work in copying papers, + answering letters, &c. And now do you not think that prayers + and bed are the fitting and well-earned ending to the labors + of the day? + + "When you remember, too, that, in building the fort, roads, + and bridges, W. has to make his bricks and burn them, to + search for his timber and fell it, you will not deny that + his hands are full enough; but in addition, he has to search + for workmen, and when brought here, to procure them food and + means of cooking it. Some are Mussulmans and eat meat, which + must be killed and cooked by their own people. Some are + Hindoos, who only feed on grain and vegetables, but every + single man must have his own chula or fireplace, with an + inclosure for him and his utensils, and if by chance any + foot but his own overstep his little mud wall, he will + neither eat nor work till another sun has arisen. Then some + smoke, while others hold it in abhorrence; some only drink + water, others must have spirits; so that it is no easy + matter to arrange the conflicting wants of some 1,100 + laborers. I shall be very thankful when this Murdan Kote is + finished, for it will relieve my poor husband of half his + labor and anxiety. + + "By way of variety, we have native sports on great + holidays,--such as throwing the spear at a mark, or + 'Nazabaze,' which is, fixing a stake of twelve or eighteen + inches into the ground, which must be taken up on the + spear's point while passing it at full gallop, or putting + an orange on the top of a bamboo a yard high, and cutting + it through with a sword at full speed. W. is very clever at + this, rarely failing, but the spears are too long for any + but a lithe native to wield without risking a broken arm. + The scene is most picturesque;--the flying horsemen in their + flowing many-colored garments, and the grouping of the + lookers-on, make me more than ever regret not having a ready + pencil-power to put them on paper. + + "The weather has been particularly unfavorable to the + progress of the fort, so that we are still in our temporary + hut and tents. Of course we feel the heat much more, so + domiciled. W. is grievously overworked, still his health is + wonderfully good, and his spirits as wild as if he were a + boy again. He is never so well pleased as when he has the + baby in his arms." + + * * * * * + + ATTOK, _June 9th, 1854_. + + ... We are so far on the way to Murree, and here, I grieve + to say, we part for the next three months. I hope to rejoin + them for a month in September, and accompany them back to + our new home, for by that time I trust that my fortified + cantonment will be ready, and our house too. This said fort + has been a burden and a stumbling-block to me for months, + and added grievously to my work, as I am sole architect. It + is built regularly, but of earthworks and mud, and as it + covers an area of twelve acres, you may believe that it has + been no slight task to superintend its construction. It is a + sad necessity, and the curse of Indian life, this repeatedly + recurring separation, but anything is better than to see the + dear ones suffer. I am fortunately very well, and as yet + untouched by the unusual virulence with which the hot + weather has commenced this year. + + * * * * * + + _To his Father._ + + MURREE, _July 17th, 1854_. + + I was summoned from Euzofzai to these hills, on the 26th + June, by the tidings of the dangerous illness of our sweet + baby. I found her in a sinking state, and though she was + spared to us for another fortnight of deep anxiety and great + wretchedness, there was, from the time I arrived, scarcely a + hope of her recovery. Slowly and by imperceptible degrees + her little life wasted away until, early on the morning of + the 10th, she breathed her soul away, so gently that those + watching her intently were conscious of no change. The deep + agony of this bereavement I have no words to describe. We + had watched her growth, and prided ourselves on her + development with such absorbing interest and joy; and she + had so won our hearts by her extreme sweetness and most + unusual intelligence, that she had become the very centre + and light of our home life, and in losing her we seem to + have lost everything. Her poor mother is sadly bowed down by + this great grief, and has suffered terribly both in health + and spirits. + + I have got permission to remain with her a few days, but I + must return to my duty before the end of the month. + + We had the best and kindest of medical advice, and + everything, I believe, which skill could do was tried, but + in vain. She was lent to us to be our joy and comfort for a + time, and was taken from us again, and the blank she has + left behind is great indeed. + + I dare not take Susie down with me, much as she wishes it, + at this season, and in her state of health. I must therefore + leave her here till October. It is very sad work to part + again under these circumstances, but in this wretched + country there is no help for us. Your kind and affectionate + expressions about our little darling, and your keen + appreciation of the "unfailing source of comfort and + refreshment she was to my wearied spirit," came to me just + as I had ceased to hope for the precious babe's life. + + ... It has been a very, very bitter blow to us. She had + wound her little being round our hearts to an extent which + we neither of us knew until we woke from the brief dream of + beauty, and found ourselves childless. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, MURDAN, _Sept. 17th, 1854_. + + I am alone now, having none of my officers here save the + doctor. But the border is quiet, and except a great deal of + crime and villany, I have not any great difficulties to + contend with. My new fort to hold the regiment and protect + the frontier is nearly finished, and my new house therein + will be habitable before my wife comes down from Murree. So + after two years and a quarter of camp and hutting, I shall + enjoy the luxury of a room and the dignity of a house. + + * * * * * + + FORT, MURDAN, _Oct. 31st, 1854_. + + I can give better accounts of our own state than for many a + long day. Dear Susie is much better than for a year past, + and gaining strength daily, and I am as well as possible. We + are now in our new house in this fort, which has caused me + so much labor and anxiety; and I assure you, a most + comfortable dwelling we find it. Our houses (I mean the + European officers') project from the general front of the + works at the angles of the bastions, and are quite private, + and away from the noisy soldiers; and we have, for India, a + very pretty view of the hills and plains around us. Above + all, the place seems a very healthy one. To your eye, fresh + from England, it would appear desolate from its solitude and + oppressive from the vastness of the scale of scene. A wide + plain, without a break or a tree, thirty miles long, by + fifteen to twenty miles wide, forms our immediate foreground + on one side, and an endless mass of mountains on the other. + + We have just heard by telegraph of the engagement at Alma, + but only a brief electric shock of a message, without + details. We are in an age of wonders. Ten months ago, there + was not a telegraph in Hindostan, yet the news which reached + Bombay on the 27th of this month, was printed at Lahore, + 1,200 miles from the coast, that same afternoon. + + * * * * * + + MURDAN, _Nov. 16th, 1854_. + + As yet, we have only felt the surging of the storm which + convulses Eastern Europe. The only palpable sign of the + effects of Russian intrigue which we have had, has been the + commencement of negotiation with the Dost Mahomed Khan, of + Cabul, who, under the pressure from without, has been fain + to seek for alliance and aid from us. Nothing is yet known + of his demands, or the intentions of Government, but one + thing is certain, that the commencement of negotiations + with us, is the beginning of evil days for Affghanistan. + + In India, we must either keep altogether aloof or absorb. + All our history shows that sooner or later connection with + us is political death. The sunshine is not more fatal to a + dew-drop than our friendship or alliance to an Asiatic + Kingdom. + + +FOOTNOTE: + +[15] No two troops or companies were of the same race, in order to +prevent the possibility of combination. One company was composed of +Sikhs, another of Affreedees, others of Pathans, Goorkhas, Punjaubee +Mahomedans, &c., with native officers, in each case, of a different +race from the men. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + + REVERSES.--UNJUST TREATMENT.--LOSS OF COMMAND.--RETURN TO + REGIMENTAL DUTIES. + + +Up to this time my brother's career in India had been one of almost +uninterrupted prosperity. He had attained a position unprecedented for +a man of his standing in the service, and enjoyed a reputation for +daring, enterprise, and ability, only equalled by the estimation in +which he was held by all who knew him, for high principle and sterling +worth. He was, as he described himself, the most fortunate and the +happiest man in India. But now the tide of fortune turned. + +A storm had for some time been gathering, the indications of which he +had either overlooked or despised, till it burst with its full force +upon him, and seemed for the moment to carry all before it, blasting +his fair fame and sweeping away his fortunes. Many circumstances had +conspired to bring about this result, some of which will only be fully +appreciated by those who are acquainted with the internal politics of +the Punjaub at that period. His appointment to the command of the +Guides, over the heads of many of his seniors, had from the first +excited much jealousy and ill-will among the numerous aspirants to so +distinguished a post. In India, more than in any other country, a man +cannot be prosperous or fortunate without making many enemies; and +every ascent above the level of your contemporaries secures so many +additional "good haters;" nor is there any country where enmity is +more unscrupulous in the means to which it has recourse. This mattered +comparatively little to my brother, so long as Sir Henry Lawrence, to +whose firm and discriminating friendship he owed his appointment, +remained in power. He, however, had been removed from the +Administration of the Punjaub, and those who had effected his removal, +and now reigned supreme, were not likely to look with very favorable +eyes upon one who, like my brother, was known as his _protege_ and +confidant, and had not perhaps been as guarded, as in prudence he +ought to have been, in the expressions of his opinion on various +transactions. More recently still, Colonel Mackeson, the Resident at +Peshawur, his immediate superior, for whom he entertained the highest +regard and affection, which was, I believe, reciprocated, had fallen a +victim to the dagger of the assassin. This had, if possible, a still +more injurious influence on my brother's position, as the new Resident +was, both on public and private grounds, opposed to him, and made no +secret of his wish to get rid of him from the charge of the frontier. + +With a prospect of such support, my brother's enemies were not likely +to be idle. He had been warned more than once of their undermining +operations; but strong in conscious integrity, and unwilling to +suspect others of conduct which he would have scorned himself, he +"held straight on" upon his usual course, till he found himself +overwhelmed by a mass of charges affecting his conduct, both in his +military and civil capacity. + +All that malice could invent or ingenuity distort, was brought forward +to give importance to the accusations laid against him. Every trifling +irregularity or error of judgment was so magnified, that a mighty +fabric was raised on a single grain of truth; and the result was, that +towards the close of the year he was summoned before a court of +inquiry at Peshawur. + +That which seemed principally to give color to the charges against him +was, that there was undeniably confusion and irregularity in the +regimental accounts; but this confusion, far from having originated +with him, had been very materially rectified. He had succeeded to the +command in October, 1852, and within twenty-four hours started on a +campaign which lasted between seven and eight weeks, without any audit +of accounts between himself and his predecessor, who had, immediately +on making over the command, left for England; so that he found a mass +of unexplained confusion, which he had been endeavoring, during his +period of command, gradually to reduce to some order. This he had to +a certain extent accomplished when summoned unexpectedly to undergo +an investigation and meet the gravest accusations. + +I will, however, in preference to any statements of my own, which +might not unnaturally be suspected of partiality, insert here, though +it was written at a later period, a letter, giving an account of the +whole affair, from one whose opinion must carry the greatest weight +with all who know him, either personally or by reputation, Sir R. +Napier. It has somewhat of an official character, as it was addressed +to the colonel of the 1st Bengal European Fusileers, when my brother +subsequently rejoined that regiment. + +And I may here observe, with regard to anything which I may now or +hereafter say reflecting on the conduct and motives of those concerned +in this attempt to ruin my brother's prospects, that I should not have +ventured to make these remarks simply on his authority, unless I had +had them confirmed, and more than confirmed, by men of the highest +character, both civil and military, who were cognizant of all the +transactions, and did not scruple to express their indignation at what +they characterized as a most cruel and unjust persecution. + + _From_ COLONEL (_now_ SIR R.) NAPIER, _Chief Engineer, + Punjaub, to_ COLONEL WELCHMAN, _1st Bengal Fusileers_. + + "UMBALA, _March, 1856_. + + "MY DEAR COL. WELCHMAN,--I have great pleasure in meeting + your request, to state in writing my opinion regarding my + friend Lieutenant Hodson's case. Having been on intimate + terms of friendship with him since 1846, I was quite + unprepared for the reports to his disadvantage which were + circulated, and had no hesitation in pronouncing my utter + disbelief in, and repudiation of them, as being at variance + with everything I had ever known of his character. On + arriving at Peshawur in March, 1855, I found that Lieutenant + Hodson had been undergoing a course of inquiry before a + Special Military Court, and on reading a copy of the + proceedings, I perceived at once that the whole case lay in + the correctness of his regimental accounts; that his being + summoned before a Court, after suspension from civil and + military duty, and after an open invitation (under + regimental authority) to all complainants in his regiment, + was a most unusual ordeal, such as no man could be subjected + to without the 'greatest disadvantage; and notwithstanding + this, the proceedings' did not contain a single substantial + case against him, provided he could establish the validity + of his regimental accounts; and that he could do this I felt + more than confident. The result of Major Taylor's laborious + and patient investigation of Lieutenant Hodson's regimental + accounts has fully justified, but has not at all added to, + the confidence that I have throughout maintained in the + honor and uprightness of his conduct. It has, however, shown + (what I believed, but had not the same means of judging of) + how much labor Lieutenant Hodson bestowed in putting the + affairs of his regiment in order. Having seen a great deal + of the manner in which the Guide Corps has been employed, I + can well understand how difficult it has been to maintain + anything like regularity of office; and how impossible it + may be for those who remain quietly in stations with + efficient establishments, to understand or make allowance + for the difficulties and irregularities entailed by rapid + movements on service, and want of proper office means in + adjusting accounts for which no organized system had been + established. The manner in which Lieutenant Hodson has + elucidated his accounts since he had access to the necessary + sources of information, appears to be highly creditable. I + have twice had the good fortune to have been associated with + him on military service, when his high qualities commanded + admiration. I heartily rejoice, therefore, both as a friend + and as a member of the service, 'at his vindication from + most grievous and unjust imputations.' And while I + congratulate the regiment on his return to it, I regret that + one of the best swords should be withdrawn from the frontier + service.--I remain, yours very sincerely, + + "R. NAPIER." + +On the receipt of Major Reynell Taylor's report, to which reference is +here made, Mr. Montgomery, (then one of the Commissioners for the +Punjaub, now the Chief Commissioner in Oude,) one of the men who, +under God, have saved India, wrote as follows:-- + + "To me the whole report seemed more satisfactory than any + one I had ever read; and considering Major Taylor's high + character, patience, and discernment, and the lengthened + period he took to investigate every detail, most triumphant. + This I have expressed to all with whom I have conversed on + the subject." + +All this, however, is an anticipation of the due order of events. I +must go back again to the Court of Inquiry, in order to show more +clearly the injustice to which Lieutenant Hodson was exposed. The +proceedings of the Court terminated on the 15th January, 1855. Till +they were submitted to the Governor-General, no decision could be +given, nor any report published, though every publicity had been given +to the accusations made. Up to the last week in July, the papers had +not been forwarded from Lahore to be laid before him. Meanwhile, not +merely had my brother been suspended from civil and military duty +during the inquiry, but without waiting for the result, he had been +superseded in his command, on the ground that his continuing in +Euzofzai, where his corps was stationed, was inconsistent with the +public interest. This will appear scarcely credible, but worse remains +behind. + +Ten months after the conclusion of the inquiry, in consequence of +repeated applications from my brother for a minute investigation of +his accounts, Major Taylor, as has been mentioned, was appointed to +examine them, and on the 13th February, 1856, made his report. The +document itself is too long and technical for publication, but the +written opinions I have already quoted, of Sir R. Napier and Mr. +Montgomery, are sufficient to show that it completely established +Lieutenant Hodson's innocence, and cleared him from the grievous +and unjust imputations cast upon him. Yet in March, 1857, he +discovered that this report had never been communicated to the +Commander-in-Chief, or Secretary to Government. It had been quietly +laid aside in some office, and no more notice taken. Lord Dalhousie +left India, having heard all that could be said against him, and +nothing in his vindication. I might give many other details +illustrative of the manner in which, even in the nineteenth century, +official enmity can succeed in crushing one who is so unfortunate as +to be its victim, and of the small chance which exists of redress, but +I will not weary my readers with them. + +I give a few extracts from my brother's letters at different times in +the course of these proceedings, to show the spirit in which he bore +this trial, bitter though it was, peculiarly grievous to one of his +sensitive feelings on all points of honor. + +In August, 1855, he wrote to me:-- + + They have not been able, with all their efforts, to fix + anything whatever upon me; all their allegations (and they + were wide enough in their range) have fallen to the ground; + and the more serious ones have been utterly disproved by the + mere production of documents and books. The most vicious + assertion was, that I had been so careless of the public + money passing through my hands, that I had not only kept no + proper accounts, but that paper had never been inked on the + subject, and consequently it would be impossible to + ascertain whether or not any deficiency existed in my + regimental treasure chest; and this after I had laid my + books on the table of the Court, and begged that they might + be examined, and after I had subsequently officially applied + for their examination by proper accountants. Well, after + seven months' delay, I was offered the opportunity of + producing them; and thus I have now at last a chance of + bringing out the real state of the case. Up to the present + time, the most critical and hostile examination, lasting a + month, has only served to prove my earliest assertion, and + my only one, that I could give an ample account of every + farthing of money intrusted to me, whenever it might please + the powers that be to inquire into it. The sum total of + money represented by my account amounts to about + 120,000_l._, passing through my hands in small fractional + sums of receipt and expenditure. + + Not only do they find that I have regular connected accounts + of everything, but that these are supported by vouchers and + receipts. It has been a severe trial, and the prolonged + anxiety and distress of the past nine months have been + nearly insupportable. + + I almost despair of making you, or any one not on the spot, + understand the ins and outs of the whole affair; and I can + only trust to the result, and to the eventual production of + all the papers, to put things in their proper light. In the + mean time I must endeavor to face the wrong, the grievous, + foul wrong, with a constant and unshaken heart, and to + endure humiliation and disgrace with as much equanimity as I + may, and with the same soldierlike fortitude with which I + ought to face danger, suffering, and death in the path of + duty. + + * * * * * + + NAOSHERA, _Nov. 4th, 1855_. + + Your two sad letters came close upon one another, but I + could not write then. The blow[16] was overwhelming; coming, + too, at a time of unprecedented suffering and trial, it was + hard to bear up against. What a year this has been! What + ages of trial and of sorrow seem to have been crowded into a + few short months. Our darling babe was taken from us on the + day my public misfortunes began, and death has robbed us of + our father before their end. The brain-pressure was almost + too much for me, coming as the tidings did at a time of + peculiar distress.... The whole, indeed, is so peculiarly + sad that one's heart seems chilled and dulled by the very + horror of the calamity.... I look with deep anxiety for your + next letters, but the mail seems exclusively occupied with + Sebastopol, and to have left letters behind. + +Again, to his sister, some months later:-- + + I trust fondly that better days are coming; but really the + weary watching and waiting for a gleam of daylight through + the clouds, and never to see it, is more harassing and + harder to bear up against than I could have supposed + possible. I have been tried to the utmost, I do think. A + greater weight of public and private calamity and sorrow + surely never fell at once on any individual. But it has to + be borne, and I try to face it manfully and patiently, and + to believe that it is for some good and wise end. + + By the way, I was much gratified and surprised at seeing, in + an article in the _Calcutta Review_ written and signed by + Sir Henry Lawrence, a most flattering testimony[17] to my + military character. Coming at such a time it is doubly + valuable. + +In another letter, he says:-- + + It is pleasant indeed to find that not a man who knows me + has any belief that there has been anything wrong. They + think I have been politically wrong in not consulting my own + interests by propitiating the powers that be, and they know + that I am the victim of official enmity in high places; but + I am proud to say, that not one of them all (and indeed I + believe I might include my worst foes and accusers in the + category) believes that I have committed any more than + errors of judgment, and that, owing to the pressure of work + which came upon me all at once, and which was more than one + man could manage at once, without leaving something to be + done at a more convenient season. + + I can honestly say, that for months before I was summoned + into Peshawur for the inquiry, I had never known what a half + hour's respite from toil and anxiety was; in fact, ever + since I first traced the lines of the fort at Murdan, in + December, 1853, I was literally weighed down by incessant + calls on my time and attention, and went to bed at night + thoroughly exhausted and worn out, to rise before daylight + to a renewed round of toil and worry. + + I remember telling John Lawrence, that, if they got rid of + me, he would require three men to do the work which I had + been doing for Government; and it has already proved + literally true. They have had to appoint three different + officers to the work I had done single-handed, and that, + too, after the worst was over! + + * * * * * + + UMBALA, _March 25th, 1856_. + + Of myself I have little to tell you; things have been much + in _statu quo_. Major Taylor's report, of which I am going + to send you a copy, is most satisfactory. There is much + which you will probably not understand in the way of + technicalities, but the general purport will be clear to + you. + + I expect to join my regiment in about three weeks. They are + marching up from Bengal to Dugshai, a hill station sixty + miles from hence, and ten from Kussowlee and Subathoo + respectively, so I shall be close to old haunts. I am very + glad we shall be in a good climate, for though I have not + given in or failed, I am thankful to say, still the last + eighteen months have told a good deal upon me, and I am not + up to heat or work. If the colonel (Welchman) can, he is + going to give me the adjutancy of the regiment, which will + be a gain in every way, not only as showing to the world + that, in spite of all which has happened, there is nothing + against my character, but as increasing my income, and + giving me the opportunity of learning a good deal of work + which will be useful to me, and of doing, I hope, a good + deal of good amongst the men. It will be the first step up + the ladder again, after tumbling to the bottom. + +Soon afterwards, Lieutenant Hodson rejoined the 1st Fusileers at +Dugshai. It may be necessary for the sake of unprofessional readers, +to explain that during the whole time that he had been Assistant +Commissioner in the Punjaub, or in command of the Guides, he had +continued to belong to this regiment, as political or staff +appointments in India do not dissolve an officer's connection with his +own regiment. + +On April 8th he writes from Dugshai:-- + + ... I have but little to tell you to cheer you on my + account. My health, which had stood the trial wonderfully, + was beginning to fail, but I shall soon be strong again in + this healthy mountain air 7,000 feet above the sea. + + This is a great thing, but it is very hard to begin again as + a regimental subaltern after nearly eleven years' hard work. + However, I am very fond of the profession, and there is much + to be done, and much learnt, and, under any other + circumstances, I should not regret being with English + soldiers again for a time. Every one believes that I shall + soon be righted, but the "soon" is a long time coming. I was + much gratified the other day by an unexpected visit from Mr. + Charles Raikes, one of the Punjaub Commissioners, who was + passing through Umbala, on his way to take a high + appointment at Agra. I had no personal knowledge of him, but + he came out of his way to call upon me, and express his + sympathy and his appreciation of (what he was pleased to + call) my high character. + + He said much that was encouraging and pleasing, which I need + not repeat. It served pleasantly, however, to show that the + tide was turning, and that in good men's minds my character + stood as high as ever. + +In addition to his other troubles, my brother was suffering all this +time from a dislocated ankle. He says in June:-- + + I have nothing to tell you of myself, save that I have + to-day, for the first time for eight weeks, put my foot to + the ground; I cannot, however, yet walk a yard without + crutches. + + * * * * * + + DUGSHAI, _Sept. 24th, 1856_. + + I strive to look the worst boldly in the face as I would an + enemy in the field, and to do my appointed work resolutely + and to the best of my ability, satisfied that there is a + reason for all; and that even irksome duties well done bring + their own reward, and that if not, still they are duties. + + But it is sometimes hard to put up with the change! I am + getting a little stronger on my ankle, but am still unable, + at the end of five months, to do more than walk about the + house. Fancy my not being able to walk 200 yards for half a + year. + + * * * * * + + DUGSHAI, _Nov. 6th_. + + I yearn to be at home again and see you all, but I am + obliged to check all such repinings and longings, and keep + down all canker cares and bitternesses, and set my teeth + hard, and will earnestly to struggle on and do my allotted + work as well and cheerfully as may be, satisfied that in the + end a brighter time will come. + +I know nothing in my brother's whole career more truly admirable, or +showing more real heroism, than his conduct at this period while +battling with adverse fates. + +Deeply as he felt the change in his position, he accommodated himself +to it in a manner that won the admiration and esteem of all. Instead +of despising his regimental duties, irksome and uninteresting, +comparatively speaking, as they were, he discharged them with a zeal +and energy, as well as cheerfulness, which called forth the following +strong expressions of commendation from the colonel of his regiment. +They are taken from a letter addressed to the Adjutant-General of the +army:-- + + "UMBALA, _Jan. 18th, 1857_. + + ... "I consider it a duty, and at the same time feel a great + pleasure, in requesting you to submit, for the consideration + of his Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, this my public + record and acknowledgment of the very essential service + Lieutenant Hodson has done the regiment at my especial + request. On the arrival of the regiment at Dugshai, I asked + Lieutenant Hodson to act as quartermaster. I pointed out to + him that, mainly owing to a rapid succession of + quartermasters when the regiment was on field-service, the + office had fallen into very great disorder;... and that he + would have to restore order out of complicated disorder, and + to organize a more efficient working system for future + guidance and observance. To my great relief and + satisfaction, Lieutenant Hodson most cheerfully undertook + the onerous duties; he was suffering at the same time severe + bodily pain, consequent on a serious accident, yet this did + not in any way damp his energy, or prevent his most + successfully carrying out the object in view.... It is + impossible to do otherwise than believe that this officer's + numerous qualifications are virtually lost to the State by + his being employed as a regimental subaltern, as he is + fitted for, and capable of doing great justice to, any staff + situation; and I am convinced, that should his Excellency + receive with approval this solicitation to confer on him + some appointment suited to the high ability, energy, and + zeal which I fear I have but imperfectly brought to notice, + it would be as highly advantageous to the service as + gratifying to myself. An officer whose superior mental + acquirements are fully acknowledged by all who know him; who + has ably performed the duties of a civil magistrate in a + disturbed district; whose knowledge of engineering has been + practically brought into play in the construction of a fort + on the Northwestern frontier; whose gallant conduct in + command of a regiment in many a smart engagement has been so + highly commended, and by such competent authorities, is one + whom I have confidence in recommending for advancement; and + in earnestly, yet most respectfully, pressing the + recommendation, I plead this officer's high qualifications + as my best apology.... + + "I have, &c. + + (Signed) + "J. WELCHMAN, + "_Lieut.-Col. Commanding 1st Bengal + Fusileers_." + + +Quite as strong was the testimony borne by Brigadier-General +Johnstone:-- + + "_To the_ ADJUTANT-GENERAL _of the Army_. + + "SIRHIND DIVISION, HEAD-QUARTERS, UMBALA, _Jan. 30th, 1857_. + + "Sir,--My mere counter-signature to Colonel Welchman's + letter in favor of Lieutenant Hodson seems so much less than + the occasion demands, that I trust his Excellency will allow + of my submitting it in a more special and marked manner. I + beg to accompany Colonel Welchman's letter with a testimony + of my own to the high character of the officer in question. + + "Rejoining his regiment as a lieutenant, from the exercise + of an important command calling daily for the display of his + energy, activity, and self-reliance, and frequently for the + manifestation of the highest qualities of the partisan + leader, or of the regular soldier, Lieutenant Hodson, with + patience, perseverance, and zeal, undertook and carried out + the laborious minor duties of the regimental staff as well + as those of a company; and, with a diligence, method, and + accuracy such as the best trained regimental officers have + never surpassed, succeeded, in a manner fully justifying the + high commendation bestowed on him by his commanding officer. + As a soldier in the field, Lieutenant Hodson has gained the + applause of officers of the highest reputation, + eye-witnesses of his ability and courage. On the testimony + of others, I refer to these, and that testimony so honorable + to his name I beg herewith to submit to his Excellency. + + "On my own observation, I am enabled to speak to Lieutenant + Hodson's character and qualities in quarters, and I do so in + terms of well-earned commendation, and at the same time in + the earnest hope that his merits and qualifications will + obtain for him such favor and preferment at the hands of his + Excellency as he may deem fit to bestow on this deserving + officer. + + "I have, &c. + + (Signed) + "M. C. JOHNSTONE, + "_Brigadier-General, &c._" + + +I must add a few more extracts from Lieutenant Hodson's letters to +myself and others, to complete this part of his history:-- + + DUGSHAI, _April 7th, 1857_. + + Your letter written this day three months reached me at + Umbala, at our mildest of "Chobhams" in the middle of + February, and deserved an earlier reply, but I have been + taken quite out of the private correspondence line lately, + by incessant calls on my time. Regimental work in camp in + India, with European regiments, no less than in quarters, is + contrived to cut up one's time into infinitesimal + quantities, and keep one waiting for every other half hour + through the day. I had more time for writing when I + commanded a frontier regiment, and governed a province! + These winter camps are very profitable, however, and not by + any means unpleasant; and as Umbala was very full, we had an + unusual amount of society for India, and some very pleasant + meetings. I was too lame to dance, but not to dine, and take + part in charades or tableaux, and so forth, and so contrived + to keep alive after the day's work was over. I got some + [Greek: kudos] and vast kindness for performing the more + strictly professional role of brigade-major to one of the + infantry brigades, and had excellent opportunities of + learning the essential, but so seldom taught or learned art, + of manoeuvring bodies of troops. My service has been so much + on the frontier and with detached corps, that I had + previously had but small opportunities for the study. I had + an interview with General Anson the other day, and I hope a + satisfactory one. He is a very pleasant mannered and + gentlemanly man, open and frank in speech, and quick to a + proverb in apprehension, taking in the pith of a matter at + a glance. As I always thought, it turned out that Major + Taylor's report had never reached the Commander-in-Chief, + and they had only the old one-sided story to go upon. I + explained the whole to him, and as he had already very + kindly read the papers relating to the matter, he quite + comprehended it, and begged me to give him a copy of + Taylor's report, when he would, if satisfied, try and see + justice done me. I trust, therefore, that at last something + will be done to clear me from all stigma in the matter. As + soon as that is done he will give me some appointment or + other, unless Government do it themselves. Sir Henry + Lawrence writes to me most kindly, and is only waiting a + favorable opportunity to help me. + + We are in a state of some anxiety, owing to the spread of a + very serious spirit of disaffection among the Sepoy army. + One regiment (the 19th of the line) has already been + disbanded, and, if all have their dues, more yet will be so + before long. It is our great danger in India, and Lord + Hardinge's prophecy, that our biggest fight in India would + be with our own army, seems not unlikely to be realized, and + that before long. Native papers, education, and progress are + against keeping 200,000 native mercenaries in hand. + + * * * * * + + _To a Friend in Calcutta._ + + DUGSHAI, _May 5th, 1857_. + + Unless I hear of something to my advantage meanwhile, I + propose starting for Calcutta about the middle of this merry + month of May, with the object of endeavoring to effect, by + personal appeal and explanations, the self-vindication which + no mere paper warfare seems likely to extort from + Government. I had waited patiently for nearly two years, + "striving to be quiet and do my own business," in the hope + that justice, however tardy, would certainly overtake me, + when an incident occurred which showed that I must adopt a + more active mode of procedure if I wished for success. On + applying for employment with the force in Persia, I met with + a refusal, on the ground of what had occurred when in + command of the Guides. This, you will allow, was calculated + to drive a man to extremities who had been under the + impression all along that his conduct, whensoever and + howsoever called in question, had been amply vindicated. + + It appeared that while everything to my disadvantage had + been carefully communicated by the Punjaub authorities to + army head-quarters, they had, with true liberality and + generosity, suppressed "in toto" the results of the + subsequent inquiry which had, in the opinion of all good + men, amply cleared my good name from the dirt lavished on + it. Even the Secretaries to Government had never heard of + this vindication, and were going on believing all manner of + things to my discredit; Lord Canning, also, being utterly + ignorant of the fact that, subsequently to Lord Dalhousie's + departure, the results of the second investigation had been + communicated to Government. + + There were clearly three courses open to me, "a la Sir + Robert Peel." + + 1st. Suicide. + + 2d. To resign the service in disgust, and join the enemy. + + 3d. To make the Governor-General eat his words, and + apologize. + + I chose the last. + + The first was too melodramatic and foreign; the second + would have been a triumph to my foes in the Punjaub; + besides, the enemy might have been beaten! + + I have determined therefore, on a trip to Calcutta. + + You will, I have no doubt, agree with me that I am perfectly + right in taking the field against the enemy, and not + allowing the Government to rest until I have carried my + point. + +In another letter of the same date:-- + + I have had another interview with General Anson at Simla, + and nothing could have been more satisfactory. He was most + polite, even cordial, and while he approved of my suggestion + of going down to Calcutta to have personal explanations with + the people there, and evidently thought it a plucky idea to + undertake a journey of 2,500 miles in such weather (May and + June), yet he said that I had better wait till I heard again + from him, for he would write himself to Lord Canning, and + try to get justice done me. + + I do trust the light is breaking through the darkness, and + that before long I may have good news to send you, in which + I am sure you will rejoice. + +It did break from a most unexpected quarter. + +This was the last letter received in England from my brother for some +months. Six days after it was written, the outbreak at Meerut +occurred, and almost immediately India was in a blaze. + +"Fortunate was it," my brother afterwards said, "that I was delayed by +General Anson till he received an answer from Lord Canning, or I +should undoubtedly have been murdered at some station on the road. The +answer never came. It must have been between Calcutta and Allygurh +when disturbances broke out, and was, with all the daks for many days, +destroyed or plundered." + +Most fortunate, too, was it, (if we may use such an expression,) that +in the hour of India's extremity, Lieutenant Hodson was within reach +of the Commander-in-Chief, and available for service. It was no longer +a time to stand on official etiquette. In that crisis, which tried the +bravest to the utmost, when a strong will and cool head and brave +heart were needed, he at once rose again to his proper place in +counsel and in action. + +But I must not anticipate what belongs to the next chapter. One fact, +however, I cannot refrain from stating here, as an appropriate +conclusion of this narrative, that within six weeks of the date of the +last letter, Lieutenant Hodson was actually commanding in the field, +before the walls of Delhi, by General Barnard's special request, the +very corps of Guides from which he had been so unjustly ousted two +years before. + +"Was there ever," he says in reference to it, "a stranger turn on the +wheel of fortune? I have much cause to be grateful, and I hope I shall +not forget the bitter lessons of adversity." + +FOOTNOTES: + +[16] The news of his father's death. + +[17] "Lieutenant Hodson, who has succeeded to the command of the +Guides, is an accomplished soldier, cool in council, daring in action, +with great natural ability improved by education. There are few abler +men in any service." + + + + +PART II. + +NARRATIVE OF THE DELHI CAMPAIGN, 1857. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + + MARCH DOWN TO DELHI. + + +On the 10th May occurred the outbreak at Meerut, closely followed by +the massacre at Delhi. + +On the 13th, orders were received at Dugshai, from the +Commander-in-Chief, for the 1st Bengal European Fusileers to march +without delay to Umbala, where all the regiments from the hill +stations were to concentrate. They set out that afternoon, and reached +Umbala, a distance of sixty miles, on the morning of the second day. +From this point Lieutenant Hodson's narrative commences. It is +compiled from the letters or bulletins which he sent day by day to his +wife, written as best they might, in any moments which he could snatch +from the overwhelming press of work, sometimes on the field, sometimes +on horseback. It is almost unnecessary to observe, that they were not +intended for the public eye, and would never have been published had +my lamented brother been alive, as he had the greatest horror of any +of his letters appearing in print. Now, unhappily, the case is +different, and I feel, in common with many of his friends, that in +justice both to himself and to the gallant band who formed the "army +before Delhi," this record of heroic fortitude and endurance ought not +to be withheld. It does not profess to be a history of the siege, or +military operations connected with it; though it is a most valuable +contribution to any history, as Lieutenant Hodson, from his position +as head of the Intelligence Department, knew better, probably, than +any other man what was going on both amongst the enemy and in our own +force; and his incidental notices will tell, better, perhaps, than the +most labored description, what our men did and what they suffered. +Full justice will probably never be done them, nor their trying +position appreciated as it ought to be; besiegers in name, though more +truly besieged; exposed to incessant attacks night and day; +continually thinned in numbers by the sword, the bullet, the +sunstroke, and cholera, and for many weeks receiving no +reinforcements; feeling sometimes as if they were forgotten by their +countrymen, and yet holding their ground against a nation in arms, +without murmuring or complaining, and with unshaken determination. All +accounts agree in speaking of the cheerful and "plucky" spirit that +prevailed, both amongst officers and men, notwithstanding fatigue, +privation, and sickness, as something quite remarkable even amongst +British soldiers. And if there was one more than another who +contributed to inspire and keep up this spirit, if there was one more +than another who merited that which a Roman would have considered the +highest praise, that he never despaired of his country, it was +Lieutenant Hodson. I have seen a letter from a distinguished officer, +in which he says:-- + + "Affairs at times looked very queer, from the frightful + expenditure of life. Hodson's face was then like sunshine + breaking through the dark clouds of despondency and gloom + that would settle down occasionally on all but a few brave + hearts, England's worthiest sons, who were determined to + conquer." + +If any should be disposed to think that my brother, in these letters, +speaks too exclusively of his own doings, they must remember, in the +first place, to whom they were addressed; and secondly, that in +describing events--_quorum pars magna fuit_--it would be almost +impossible not to speak of himself. + +He himself, even in writing to his wife, thinks it necessary to +apologize for being "egotistical." I believe, on the other hand, that +the highest interest of the following narrative will be found to +consist in its being a _personal_ narrative, a history of the man, an +unreserved outspeaking of his mind and feelings; nor am I afraid of +others thinking apology called for. Nor, however much they may +disagree from his criticisms on men and measures, will they deny that +he was well qualified, both by his opportunities of observation at the +time, and his past experience of Asiatic character, to form a judgment +and express an opinion without exposing himself to the charge of +presumption. + + UMBALA, _May 15th, 1857_. + + We got here after two nights of very harassing marching. We + started badly, the men having been drinking before they came + to parade, and they were hurried too much in going down + hill, consequently there was much straggling; but, thanks to + tattoos (ponies) and carts and elephants, sent out to meet + us, we got in to-day in tolerable completeness. Affairs are + very serious, and unless very prompt and vigorous measures + are taken, the whole army, and perhaps a large portion of + India, will be lost to us. Delhi is in the hands of the + mutineers,--no European that we can hear of being left alive + there,--men, women, and children, all who were caught, have + been butchered! Brigadier Graves, Abbott, and some others + have escaped. Willoughby, the Ordnance Commissary in charge + of the magazine and arsenal, is said to have fired it + himself to prevent the mutineers having possession of the + contents to arm themselves with,--of course sacrificing his + own life to such a duty. A lac and a half of muskets would + otherwise have been in the hands of the insurgents. The + Commander-in-Chief came in this morning. Here alarm is the + prevalent feeling, and conciliation, of men with arms in + their hands and in a state of absolute rebellion, the order + of the day. This system, if pursued, is far more dangerous + than anything the Sepoys can do to us. There is an outbreak + at Ferozepoor, but the Europeans have the fort in their + possession; if not, we should be without arms, for the + regiments here have no ammunition, and Philour, our nearest + source of supply, was nearly falling into the hands of the + Sepoys. Even now, some say it is at their mercy. Fortunately + the Maharaja of Puttiala is stanch, and so are other Sikh + chiefs hereabouts. We shall go on to Delhi in a few days. + That city is in the hands of the insurgents, and the King + proclaimed Emperor of Hindostan! I do trust that the + authorities will act with vigor, else there is no knowing + where the affair will end. Oh for Sir Charles Napier now! + + _16th._--Little is known for certain of what is going on, as + there is no communication with, or from, below. At present, + the native troops have all gone off bodily; none remain in + cantonments. We march, I believe, on Monday,--9th Lancers, + 75th Queen's, 1st Fusileers, and nine guns, taking the 5th, + 60th Native Infantry, and 4th Cavalry with us,--nice + companions! However, they can do us no harm, and they might + do great mischief if left here. There has been an outbreak + at Ferozepoor and Philour, but the magazine and bridge at + the first place are safe in the hands of her Majesty's 60th, + and the authorities at Jullundur sent off a party of + Europeans and Horse Artillery at once, who secured the fort + at Philour; otherwise we should have had no ammunition but + what the soldiers carried in their pouches. The times are + critical, but I have no fear of aught save the alarm and + indecision of our rulers. All here is sheer confusion, and + there is a tendency to treat these rebellious Sepoys with a + tenderness as misplaced as it would be pernicious. There is + actually a talk of concentrating troops, and waiting to be + joined by others before marching on Delhi; and they utterly + refuse to detach even a party on Kurnal to protect the + officers and treasury there. This is all very sad, and + sometimes makes one disposed to question whether we are not + suffering from the "dementia" which Providence sends as the + forerunner of ruin. However, our course is not yet run, and + whatever clouds may gather over us, there are good results + in store. The Punjaub is quiet. The native troops at + Mean-Meer were quietly disarmed, and do their guards with + bayonets only. This excellent arrangement is Sir John + Lawrence's doing. Nothing is known of Lucknow, or indeed of + any place below Meerut. Allygurh is supposed to have gone. + Some details of the massacre at Delhi, which I have just + heard from one of the escapees, are awful beyond belief. + Charlie Thomason is said to have escaped; Mr. Jennings, the + chaplain, and his daughter were among the victims. Mr. + Beresford, his wife, and five daughters all massacred. Poor + Colonel Ripley lived long enough to say he was killed by his + own men. De Teissier's native artillerymen joined the rebels + with their guns;--he escaped, though severely wounded. + + _17th._--We are all terribly anxious about the hill + stations, reports having reached us that the Goorkhas have + mutinied and attacked Simla. 100 men, with ammunition, have + gone off this morning to Kussowlee. Dugshai is easily + defended. Simla is most to be feared.... All this has put + out of my head for the time the good news for us. Yesterday + I was sent for by the Commander-in-Chief, and appointed + Assistant Quartermaster-General on his personal staff, to be + under the immediate orders of his Excellency, and with + command to raise 100 horse and 50 foot, for service in the + Intelligence Department, and as personal escort. All this + was done, moreover, in a most complimentary way, and it is + quite in my line. I am prepared to set to work vigorously; + but I confess my anxiety on account of the reports we hear + respecting the hill stations makes me cruelly anxious.... + General Anson, it seems, wrote about me to Talbot, but could + get no answer before the outbreak occurred, which makes this + act of his, on his own responsibility, the more + complimentary. It is very uncertain now when we move on. All + is quiet in the Punjaub, I am thankful to say, and the + rebels have had a lesson read them at Ferozepoor which will + do good. The 45th Native Infantry were nearly cut to pieces + by the 10th Light Cavalry,[18] who pursued them for twelve + miles, and cut them to pieces. This last is a great fact. + One regiment at least has stood by us, and the moral effect + will be great; nothing known yet from below. Poor Macdonald, + of the 20th Native Infantry, his wife, and their three + babes, murdered, with adjuncts not to be mentioned. John + Lawrence is acting with great vigor, and they have organized + a movable force at Jhelum, composed of her Majesty's 24th + and 27th, the Guides, Kumaon Battalion, and other + Irregulars, to move in any required direction. Montgomery + writes in great spirits and confidence from Lahore. I am + just sent for by the chief. + + KURNAL, _May 18th_.--According to orders, I left Umbala at + 8.30 P.M., and reached here at 4.30 A.M., having prepared + everything at Peeplee _en route_. I had only "Bux"[19] with + me, and did not apprehend any danger until within a few + miles of Kurnal, but nothing whatever happened; the road was + deserted, and not a soul to be seen. I am sheltered in a + house occupied by the refugees from Delhi and the civil + officers of Kurnal, about fifteen in all, with Mrs. + Wagentrieber, her husband, and sundry sergeants, &c. The + European troops will be here to-night. What would I not give + for a couple of hundred of my old Guides! I flatter myself I + could do something then. As it is, I must bide my time until + I can get a few good men together on whom I can depend. I + have been so busy all day, writing letters on my knee, + sending off electric messages, _cum multis aliis_. I can but + rejoice that I am employed again; certain, too, as I am, + that the star of Old England will shine the brighter in the + end, and we shall hold a prouder position than ever. But the + crisis is an awful one! + + _May 19th._--This morning the Commander-in-Chief ordered me + to raise and command an entire new regiment of Irregular + Horse. I do not know who or what has been at work for me, + but he seems willing enough to give me work to do, and I am + willing enough to do it. The European troops arrived this + morning (I sent a telegraphic message to say so); and the + Rajah of Jheend, with his men, last night. I have offered to + clear the road and open the communication to Meerut and + Delhi with the Rajah's Horse. If the Chief will consent, I + think I am sure of success. It is believed that nothing has + occurred at Agra. The Punjaub all quiet up to last night; as + long as that is the case we shall do. With God and our Saxon + arms to aid us, I have firm faith in the result. + + _20th._--Deep anxiety about the safety of the hill stations + continues unabated; no letters,--no certainty,--only + rumors. Were it not for this, I should enter with full zest + into the work before me, and the fresh field which I owe to + General Anson's kindness. He has at last consented to my + trying to open communication with Meerut, so I start this + afternoon to try to make my way across with a party of the + Jheend Horse; and I have, under Providence, little doubt of + success, though I would rather have a party of my dear old + Guides. There has been an outbreak at Agra, but all the + Europeans are shut up in the fort; Allygurh and Moradabad + have mutinied, but by God's help we shall get safely + through. + + _20th_, 2 P. M.--Just one line to say I am starting, and + shall not be able to write to-morrow or next day. Still no + tidings from the hills! This is a terrible additional pull + upon one's nerves at a time like this, and is a phase of war + I never calculated on. + + _May 24th._--I returned from my expedition to Meerut late + last night. It was eminently successful, and I am off + immediately to Umbala to report progress to the Chief. Much + relieved by a letter from you. + + _25th._--A hurried line only to say I am safe and well, but + dead beat. I went yesterday to Umbala by mail-cart to report + to the Commander-in-Chief. Got there at 6 P.M., and started + back again at 11 P.M. As I have only had one night in bed + out of five, I am tolerably weary. The Commander-in-Chief + arrived this morning. I will give you more particulars when + I have slept. + +From a letter written from camp before Delhi, in August, to Colonel D. +Seaton:-- + + ... "As soon as the Commander-in-Chief reached Umbala he + sent for me, and put me in charge of the Intelligence + Department, as an Assistant Quartermaster-General General + under his personal orders. I left Umbala by mail-cart that + night for Kurnal, ascertained the state of things, made + arrangements for the protection and shelter of the advanced + party, and offered to open the road to Meerut, from Kurnal. + He replied by telegraph. Seventy-two hours afterwards, I was + back in Kurnal, and telegraphed to him that I had forced my + way to Meerut,[20] and obtained all the papers he wanted + from the General there. These I gave him four hours later in + Umbala. The pace pleased him, I fancy, for he ordered me to + raise a Corps of Irregular Horse, and appointed me + Commandant." + + * * * * * + + _May 25th, Evening._--I wrote this morning a few hurried + lines to keep you from anxiety. I was too tired to do more, + the continued night-work had wearied me out, and when I got + back here at half-past six this morning I was fairly dead + beat. Poor Charlie Thomason is with me. I am happy to have + been in some measure instrumental in getting him in in + safety, by offering a heavy sum to the villagers. He had + been wandering about in the jungles, with several other + refugees, for days, without food or shelter. I am deeply + grieved for him, poor fellow! The state of panic at Meerut + was shocking; all the ladies shut up in an inclosed barrack, + and their husbands sleeping in the men's barracks for + safety, and never going beyond the sentries. + + General Hewitt is in a state of helpless imbecility. The + best and boldest spirit there was our friend Alfred Light, + doing his work manfully and well. He had had some miraculous + escapes. My commission is to raise a body of Irregular Horse + on the usual rates of pay and the regular complement of + native officers, but the number of troops to be + unlimited,--_i. e._, I am to raise as many men as I please; + 2,000, if I can get them. The worst of it is, the being in a + part of the country I do not know, and the necessity of + finding men who can be trusted. Mr. Montgomery is aiding me + wonderfully. He called upon some of my old friends among the + Sirdars to raise men for me. Shumshere Singh is raising one + troop; Tej Singh ditto; Emaumoodeen ditto; Mr. Montgomery + himself one or two ditto. All these will be ready in about + three weeks. I am to remain Assistant Quartermaster-General, + attached to the Commander-in-Chief. This allows me free + access to him at any time, and to other people in authority, + which gives me power for good. The Intelligence Department + is mine exclusively, and I have for this line Sir Henry's + old friend, the one-eyed Moulvie, Rujub Alee, so I shall get + the best news in the country. Montgomery has come out very, + very strong indeed, and behaved admirably. The native + regiments at Peshawur have been disarmed. One at Naoshera + (the 55th) was sent over to occupy Murdan in the absence of + the Guides. They have mutinied, and seized the fort, and + confined the Assistant Commissioner. General Cotton is going + against them, and the Euzofzai folks will do their best to + prevent a man escaping. As yet the Punjaub is quiet, and the + Irregulars true. The Guides are coming down here by forced + marches. + + CAMP, PANEEPUT, _27th_.--I wrote to you this morning, but as + I shall not probably be in the way of daks to-morrow, I + write a few lines to be sent after I start onwards. You will + have heard of the sad death of General Anson. He was taken + with cholera yesterday, and died without pain from collapse + this morning. He made over command to General Barnard with + his last breath. Sir Henry only arrived from Umbala just in + time. His death is politically a vast misfortune just at + this crisis, and personally I am deeply grieved, and the + natives will be highly elated. I am even now hard at work, + raising my men, or taking means to do so, and have already + had applications for officers; but I shall not settle on + officers till the men begin to collect, and this time I will + take care to have none but gentlemen, if I can help it. I am + going downwards to-night to look after the bridge[21] on + this side of Delhi, about thirty miles hence, by which the + Meerut troops will move to join us. I take the Jheend Horse; + Colonel T. Seaton is commanding the 60th Native Infantry, + and will be here to-night with them. I don't envy him his + new command, but he is a good man, and a brave soldier, and + if any man can get them over the mess, he will do it. Sir H. + Barnard is a fine gentlemanly old man, but hardly up to his + work. However, we must all put our shoulders to the wheel, + and help him over the crisis. I trust he will act with + vigor, for we have delayed far too long already. + + _29th._--There is nothing new. I travelled eighty miles + between 2 P. M. yesterday, and ten this morning, besides + heaps of business. I am tired, I confess, for the heat is + awful. The treasuries are empty, and no drafts are to be + cashed, so how we are to get money I cannot imagine. We hear + that a request has gone to Lord Canning to send for Pat + Grant as Commander-in-Chief, pending instructions. I grieve + for poor General Anson, and I ought to do so, for he was a + good friend to me. + + SUMALKA, _30th_.--My earnest representations and + remonstrances seem at last to have produced some effect, for + at 7 P. M. yesterday we got an order to move on. The + head-quarters follow us to-night from Kurnal. The "we" means + three squadrons of 9th Lancers, Money's troop of Horse + Artillery, and 1st Fusileers. Brigadier Hallifax is in + command, but so ill from heat and anxiety, that I begin to + be anxious about him, and whether he will be able to remain + with the force is doubtful. Colonel T. Seaton has gone on to + Rohtuck with the 60th Native Infantry, who, I have no doubt, + will desert to a man as soon as they get there. It is very + plucky of him and the other officers to go; and very hard of + the authorities to send them; a half-hearted measure, and + very discreditable, in my opinion, to all concerned; + affording a painful contrast to Sir John Lawrence's bold and + decided conduct in this crisis. The old Guides are to be + here on the 8th or 10th to join us. The heat here is a + caution, and writing in this melting climate anything but + easy, especially as chairs and tables are not common. This + regiment (1st Fusileers) is a credit to any army, and the + fellows are in as high spirits and heart, and as plucky and + free from croaking as possible, and really do good to the + whole force. + + KUSSOWLEE, _May 31st_.--Here we are one more stage on our + road to Delhi; we are, however, to halt a couple of days or + so at the next stage (Raee), to await the arrival of General + Barnard. Poor Brigadier Hallifax was so ill that he would + clearly have died had he remained here, so we had a medical + committee, put him into my shigram (a travelling wagon), and + sent him off to Kurnal for Umbala and the hills. I sent a + telegraphic message for Mrs. Hallifax to meet him at Umbala. + This is but the beginning of this work, I fear; and before + this business ends, we who are, thank God! still young and + strong shall alone be left in camp; all the elderly + gentlemen will sink under the fatigue and exposure. I think + of asking for Mr. Macdowell as my second in command; he is a + gentleman, and only wants opportunity to become a gallant + soldier. The whole onus of work here is on my shoulders; + every one comes to me for advice and assistance, which is + purely absurd. I shall do all the work and others get the + credit, as usual; but in these days we cannot afford to + spare ourselves. The Empire is at stake, and all we love and + reverence is in the balance. I tried to persuade them to + send General Johnstone to Meerut to supersede Hewitt. I wish + he had been there and was here; we have few as good. + + RAEE, _June 1st_.--I have just been roused up from the + first sleep I have had, for I don't know how long, (lying + under a peepul-tree, with a fine breeze like liquid fire + blowing over me,) by the news that the dak is going, so I + can only say that all is well, and that we are here, about + twenty miles from Delhi, and I hope ere night to capture + some of the rascals who stripped and ill-treated two ladies + near this the other day on their flight to the hills. + + Colonel Hope Grant has arrived to command the force until + General Barnard comes, which will be on the 4th, and the + Meerut people also. The Delhi mutineers marched out ten + miles, and attacked Brigadier Wilson on the night of the + 30th, at Ghazeenuggur, on his way to this place. He drove + them back, and captured all their guns. Some 8,000 or 10,000 + of them came out, and he had only about 1,000 men. Long + odds, this; but of course all his men were Europeans. I fear + the 14th Irregulars have joined the mutineers. If they would + only make haste and get to Delhi, we might do something. + + RAEE, _2d_.--You will have been as much shocked as I was by + the tidings of poor Brigadier Hallifax's death at Kurnal, + only a few hours after I had put him into the carriage, with + the comfortable assurance that his wife would meet him at + Umbala. He died from congestion of the brain. I have been + much affected by this, for I had a warm regard for him, and + his very helplessness the last few days seemed to strengthen + the tie. I feel deeply for his poor wife and children. + Colonel Mowat of the artillery is dead too, of cholera. The + weather is undoubtedly very trying for old and infirm men; + but we are all well here, and there is no sickness to speak + of among the troops. All will be here to-morrow. + Headquarters, 75th, Queen's, and remainder of 9th Lancers; + the heavy guns and 2d Fusileers are only a short way behind. + Colonel Hope Grant commands. The Meerut folks have had + another fight (on the 31st) with the Delhi mutineers, and + again beaten them; but this constant exposure is very trying + to Europeans. I wish we were moving nearer Delhi more + rapidly, as all now depends on our quickly disposing of this + mighty sore. I wish from my heart we had Sir Henry Lawrence + here; he is the man for the crisis. We are all in high + spirits; only eager to get at the villains who have + committed atrocities which make the blood run cold but to + think of. I trust the retribution will be short, sharp, and + decisive. + + Another batch of half-starved, half-naked Europeans, men, + women, and children (a deputy collector and his family), + were brought into camp to-day, after wandering twenty-three + days in the jungle. + + RAEE, _3d_.--Things are so quiet in the Punjaub that I begin + to hope that, if we do but make haste in disposing of Delhi, + the campaign may not be so long, after all. Everything + depends on that; we dare not, however, calculate on such + good fortune either to our arms or ourselves. The + head-quarters' people joined this morning; they seem to + stand it better than I expected. Congreve complains a good + deal, but Keith Young and Arthur Becher are well. I have not + yet seen Sir H. Barnard. I was kept up and out half the + night, and then out again at daybreak, so I am too tired and + busy to pay visits. There has been no further fight that we + know of. Charlie Thomason rejoined us this morning; he has + picked up a little since his starvation time ended, and does + not look so like a wild beast as he did. Still good news + from Agra; there are, however, reports which tend to show + disturbances in the Allyghur and Bolundshur districts. + + ALEEPORE, _5th_.--You must not be anxious on my account; I + am in as good a position as possible for a subaltern to be, + unless, indeed, I had my regiment ready for service. I am + second only to Becher in the Quarter-master-General + Department, and the Intelligence Department is entirely my + own. I feel deeply for poor Mrs. Hallifax and her large + family, and am delighted that you are able to aid them. I + have tried everywhere to get a bearer, but the natives will + not serve us now, and I could get no one even on double pay. + Only two days ago I succeeded in getting a Bheestie. If we + could but get all the seventy-four native infantry regiments + in one lump we could manage them, but they will never stand + after we get our guns to work. I rode right up to the Delhi + parade-ground this morning to reconnoitre, and the few + Sowars, whom I met, galloped away like mad at the sight of + one white face. Had I had a hundred Guides with me I would + have gone up to the very walls. + + ALEEPORE, _6th_.--All the force is assembled to-day save the + Meerut portion, and they will be up to-night; the heat is + severe, but not unhealthy. The siege guns came in this + morning, and the 2d European Bengal Fusileers, and we are + all ready to move on. About 2,000 of the rebels have come + out of Delhi, and put themselves in position to bar our + road. Even your pride would be satisfied at the cry when I + ride to the front or start on any little excursion. I think + I am more than appreciated by the head-quarters' people. I + had barely finished the word when I was sent for by the + General, and had a pretty strong proof of the estimation I + am held in. He had been urged to one particular point of + attack; and when I went into the tent, he immediately turned + to the assembled council, and said, "I have always trusted + to Hodson's intelligence, and have the greatest confidence + in his judgment. I will be guided by what he can tell me + now." So the croakers, who had been groaning, were + discomfited. This is of course for your own eye and ear + alone, but it is pleasant, as the General has only known me + since he has now joined the force.[22] + + ALEEPORE, _June 7th_.--I have little to do with the "Jheend + Rajah's troops," further than that I am empowered to demand + as many as I want, and whenever I want them. I have + twenty-five men on constant duty with me, and to-day have + asked for double that number for extra duty; beyond this, I + have not, and do not wish to have, further to do with them. + All Rohilcund is in mutiny. In fact, the district of Agra is + the only one in the Northwest Provinces now under our + control. What a terrible lesson on the evils of delay! It + will be long yet, I fear, ere this business is over. Oh for + Sir Henry Lawrence! Yet personally I have no reason to + complain. + + CAMP, DELHI, _June 8th, 1857_.--Here we are safe and sound, + after having driven the enemy out of their position in the + cantonments up to and into the walls of Delhi! I write a + line in pencil on the top of a drum to say that I am + mercifully untouched, and none the worse for a very hard + morning's work. Our loss has been considerable, the rebels + having been driven from their guns at the point of the + bayonet. Poor Colonel Chester killed at the first fire. + Alfred Light (who won the admiration of all) wounded, but + not severely. No one else of the staff party killed or + wounded; but our general returns will, I fear, tell a sad + tale. Greville slightly hurt. The enemy's guns captured, and + their dispersion and rout very complete. God has been very + good to me. May His gracious protection still be shown! + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[18] They afterwards mutinied. + +[19] His bearer. + +[20] _Letter from an Officer._ + +"When the mutiny broke out, our communications were completely cut +off. One night, on outlying picket at Meerut, this subject being +discussed, I said, 'Hodson is at Umbala, I know; and I'll bet he will +force his way through, and open communications with the +Commander-in-Chief and ourselves.' At about three that night I heard +my advanced sentries firing. I rode off to see what was the matter, +and they told me that a party of enemy's cavalry had approached their +post. When day broke, in galloped Hodson. He had left Kurnal +(seventy-six miles off) at nine the night before, with one led horse +and an escort of Sikh cavalry, and, as I had anticipated, here he was +with despatches for Wilson! How I quizzed him for approaching an armed +post at night without knowing the parole. Hodson rode straight to +Wilson, had his interview, a bath, breakfast, and two hours' sleep, +and then rode back the seventy-six miles, and had to fight his way for +about thirty miles of the distance." + +Another officer, writing to his wife at this time, says:-- + +"Hodson's gallant deeds more resemble a chapter from the life of +Bayard or Amadis de Gaul, than the doings of a subaltern of the +nineteenth century. The only feeling mixed with my admiration for him +is envy." + +[21] At Bhagput. + +[22] I am told that, one day about this time, General Barnard said at +the council table, "We must have our best man to lead that +column;--Hodson, will you take it?"--_Ed._ + + + + +CHAPTER II. + + SIEGE OF DELHI. + + + CAMP BEFORE DELHI, _June 9th_. + + I wrote you a few hurried lines on the field of battle + yesterday, to say that we had beaten the enemy, and driven + them back five miles into Delhi. How grateful rest was after + such a morning! The Guides came in to-day, and it would have + done your heart good to see the welcome they gave + me--cheering and shouting and crowding round me like frantic + creatures. They seized my bridle, dress, hands, and feet, + and literally threw themselves down before the horse with + the tears streaming down their faces. Many officers who were + present hardly knew what to make of it, and thought the + creatures were mobbing me; and so they were,--but for joy, + not for mischief[23]. All the staff were witnesses of this, + and Colonel Becher says their reception of me was quite + enough to contradict all the reports of my unpopularity[24] + with the regiment. There is terrible confusion all along the + road, and we can only get the daks carried at all by + bribery, stage by stage. + + _June 10th._--When I hastily closed my letter yesterday, I + hoped to be able to write a long one for to-day's dak, and + to have had some hours' quiet to myself; but before the post + had well started, our troops were again under arms, the + mutineers having thought proper to attack our position; + consequently I was on horseback the whole day, and thankful + to get at night a mouthful of food and a little rest. I had + command of all the troops on our right, the gallant Guides + among the rest. They followed me with a cheer for their old + commander, and behaved with their usual pluck; but I grieve + deeply to say that poor Quintin Battye was mortally wounded. + He behaved most nobly, Daly tells me, leading his men like a + hero. Poor Khan Singh Rosah, who had come down from the + Punjaub to join me only the same morning, was badly shot + through the shoulder. Indeed, I did _not_ expose myself + unnecessarily, for, having to direct the movements of three + or four regiments, I could not be in the front as much as I + wished. God has mercifully preserved me, and I humbly pray + will continue His gracious care. The warmth of the reception + again given me by the Guides was quite affecting, and has + produced a great sensation in camp, and had a good effect on + our native troops, insomuch that they are more willing to + obey their European officers when they see their own + countrymen's enthusiasm. Numbers of the men want to come and + join my new regiment,--in fact, the largest proportion of + the cavalry; but of course I cannot take them now, nor until + this business is over. I am wonderfully well, and only a + little anxious about the hill stations, though I have full + confidence in Lord William Hay's management. There is not + much sickness in camp, though many wounded, and there will + be many more, I fear, before we get into Delhi. We have + been fortunate in the weather hitherto. + + The enemy are at least four or five times our strength, and + their numbers tell when we come near them, despite their + want of discipline. They are splendid artillery-men, + however, and actually beat ours in accuracy of fire. + + Light works on magnificently, despite a severe and painful + wound in the head. I was very nearly coming to grief once + this morning, for the sabre I thought such a good one went + the first blow, and the blade flew out of the handle the + second, the handle itself breaking in two. I had to borrow a + sword from a horse artillery-man for the remainder of the + day. + + The Jheend men with me fought like excellent soldiers. The + good General came up when it was over and shook hands with + me, and then with the men nearest. Their Rajah has given the + native officer a pair of gold bangles, and doubled his pay. + This is the way to encourage soldiers, European as well as + native: reward them, if but with thanks, on the spot. + + Colonel Thomas Seaton is at Rohtuck, in command of the 60th + Native Infantry. How much longer they will refrain from + mutiny one cannot say; certainly not long; though if any man + can keep them steady, Seaton will. I hear some 300 or 400 + men are ready for me; a few have already arrived with Khan + Singh. Meantime my position is Assistant + Quartermaster-General on the Commander-in-Chief's personal + staff. I am responsible for the Intelligence Department, and + in the field, or when anything is going on, for directing + the movements of the troops in action, under the immediate + orders of the General; I have no other master, and he + listens to my suggestions most readily. Charlie Thomason is + here, working away as an engineer. Macdowell is well and + merry, and much gratified at my having asked for him. + + _June 14th._--We were roused up three times during the + night, and I have been deep in business with the General all + the morning. I was also interrupted by the mournful task of + carrying poor Battye to his grave; the brave boy died last + night, with a smile on his lip, and a Latin quotation on his + tongue, "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori." Poor fellow! + he had quite won my heart by his courage and amiable + qualities, and it is very, very sad, his early death. It was + a noble one, however, and worthy of a soldier. We have just + been excited in camp by the hasty arrival of Colonel Seaton + and the officers of the late 60th Native Infantry, which + mutinied yesterday, and, spite of all Seaton could do, they + fired on their officers, who, however, all escaped and came + into camp safe, after a ride of fifty miles. Seaton is with + me, looking terribly worn and harassed, but he says quite + well in health, though disgusted enough. Dr. Coghlan (75th + Regiment) died of cholera last night, but, thank God! there + are no other cases in camp. I am much vexed at the _Lahore + Chronicle_ "butter," and wish people would leave me alone in + the newspapers. The best "butter" I get is the deference and + respect I meet with from all whose respect I care for, and + the affectionate enthusiasm of the Guides, which increases + instead of lessening. + + _June 12th._--We were turned out early this morning by an + attack on our outposts and position generally by the rebel + army. A sharp fight ensued, which lasted some four hours. + The enemy came on very boldly, and had got close to us, + under cover of the trees and gardens, before they were seen; + however, the troops turned out sharp, and drove them back + quickly from our immediate vicinity; they were then + followed up, and got most heartily thrashed. They have never + yet been so punished as to-day. I estimate their loss in + killed alone at 400, while our loss was comparatively + trifling. The Guides behaved admirably, so did the + Fusileers, as usual. Jacob's wing was the admiration of all; + one officer (Captain Knox, 75th) was killed, and one or two + wounded, I do not know how many European soldiers; but on + the whole the affair was a very creditable one. I am safe + and sound still, and again have to thank the Almighty for my + preservation. + + Yesterday, I was ordered by the General to assist Greathed, + and one or two more engineers, in forming a project of + attack, and how we would do to take Delhi. We drew up our + scheme and gave it to the General, who highly approved, and + will, I trust, carry it out; but how times must be changed, + when four subalterns are called upon to suggest a means of + carrying out so vitally important an enterprise as this, one + on which the safety of the Empire depends! Wilberforce + Greathed is next senior engineer to Laughton. Chesney is + Major of the Engineer Brigade, and Maunsell commands the + Sappers, so they had official claims to be consulted. + + I was added, because the General complimentarily told me he + had the utmost value for my opinion, and though I am known + to counsel vigorous measures, it is equally well known I do + not urge others to do what I would not be the first to do + myself. It is a much more serious business than was at first + anticipated. Delhi is a very strong place, and the vast + resources which the possession of our arsenal has given the + mutineers, has made the matter a difficult one to deal with, + except by the boldest measures; the city should be carried + by a _coup-de-main_, and that at once, or we may be many + weeks before Delhi, instead of within it. All is safe at + Agra, and the 3d Europeans are quietly under cover. A large + party of us have just been listening to a letter from Lord + W. Hay, in which he speaks in the highest terms of the + conduct of some of the ladies at Simla, and says that the + sense and courage exhibited by one or two of them has given + a severe lesson to those who ought to know better than to + require it from the weaker sex. + + _June 13th._--We were to have taken Delhi by assault last + night, but a "mistake of orders," (?) as to the right time + of bringing the troops to the rendezvous, prevented its + execution. I am much annoyed and disappointed at our plan + not having been carried out, because I am confident it would + have been successful. The rebels were cowed, and perfectly + ignorant of any intention of so bold a stroke on our part as + an assault; the surprise would have done everything. I am + very vexed, though the General is most kind and considerate + in trying to soothe my disappointment,--too kind, indeed, or + he would not so readily have pardoned those whose fault it + is that we are still outside Delhi. + + _June 14th._--There was another smart engagement last night, + the 60th Native Infantry having thought fit to signalize + their arrival at Delhi by an attack upon our position; they + suffered for it, as usual, but also, as usual, we lost + several good men whom, God knows, we can ill spare. Mr. + Kennedy was wounded, and a Subadar and some men of the + Guides killed. I was not very much under fire, though I had + to run the gantlet now and then of a rain of shot and shells + with which the rebels belabored us. Our artillery officers + themselves say that they are outmatched by these rascals in + accuracy and rapidity of fire; and as they have unlimited + supplies of guns and ammunition from our own greatest + arsenal, they are quite beyond us in many respects. I am + just returned from a long ride to look after a party of + plunderers from the city, who had gone round our flank; I + disposed of a few. + + _June 15th._--I have had a night and day of great anxiety, + owing to fresh rumors of an outbreak at Simla. I have much + confidence in Lord W. Hay's judgment and management of the + natives, but this would not be sufficient, were the station + once attacked. The dak, however, has arrived, and quieted + our apprehensions. There was a sharp fight again this + morning, which lasted some hours; our loss was not great, + but every man is a loss. Our project for the assault is + still approved of and entertained, but put off from day to + day, till it will be too late. It is now noon, and I have + been out since daybreak, and must get breakfast. + + _June 16th._--Everybody here is infinitely disgusted at + learning the truth about the report of a riot at Simla, and + the opinion is universal that ---- ought to be removed. + Neville Chamberlain is Adjutant-General of the army, and Pat + Grant Commander-in-Chief. I do not think either of them will + approve of any "soldier" showing his prowess in fighting + helpless women and children, or of one whose only courage is + exhibited on a peaceful parade, or when an unfortunate + subaltern is to be bullied. The weather is intense to-day, + and I am uncomfortable from having caught a heavy cold, but + it will soon go off, I dare say. I mentioned that four of us + had been ordered to prepare a project of attack, and that we + had suggested and arranged a bold but perfectly feasible + _coup-de-main_; it was approved and ordered, but in + consequence of ----'s not bringing up his troops, was + forced to be abandoned; it has again been ordered, + countermanded, and finally abandoned. A council of war sat + yesterday, and resolved to wait for reinforcements!! our + scheme, however, is on record, and our names attached. + General Barnard told me yesterday he wished I was a captain, + for he would pledge himself to get me a majority for what I + had already done; he thought he "might safely promise _that_ + at least." But, alas! I am not a captain. + + _June 18th._--I was not able to write yesterday, for the + cold I mentioned as having caught in common with many others + in camp, turned into a sharp attack of bronchitis, or + inflammation on the chest, and I was really very ill for + some hours. To-day I am thankful to say I am much better, + though very weak; the inflammation has disappeared, and I + hope to be on my horse again to-morrow, in spite of all the + doctor says. Every one is very kind, the General + particularly so; he insists on having me in his own tent, as + being so much larger than my own, and he takes the most + fatherly care of me. I can see no reason strong enough to + induce me to consent to any ladies coming to camp; it is + true that a Captain ----, who with his wife escaped from + Delhi to Umbala, has dragged the unfortunate woman back here + again, though expecting her confinement, and with not a + shadow of comfort or shelter, except a tent. Even Mrs. + ----,[25] and all the others of her sex, have been sent back + to Meerut; they never ought to have been allowed to come + with us; the greatest consolation to us here is the thought + that those dearest to us are in safety, and free from the + heat and dangers and annoyances of our life here. Poor Brown + was badly wounded last night in the shoulder. I much fear + that Dr. Hay has been murdered at Bareilly; his name is + among the missing, and scarcely a hope remains. + + _June 19th._--I am up and dressed, and crawling about a + little to-day, but much weaker than I fancied, and dizzy + with quinine, and vexed at being useless at such a time. The + General nurses me as if I were his son. I woke in the night, + and found the kind old man by my bedside, covering me + carefully up from the draught. The delay and absolute want + of progress here is very disheartening. There have been + repeated attacks upon us; all of course with the same + result, (but, for that matter, we are as nearly besieged as + the rebels themselves are,) and we lose valuable lives in + every encounter, the sum total of which would swell the + catalogue to the dimensions of that of a general engagement. + Our plan of carrying the city by a _coup-de-main_ was + frustrated the first night by the fears and absolute + disobedience of orders of ----, the man who first lost + Delhi, and has now by folly prevented its being recaptured. + The General has twice since wished and even ordered it, but + has always been thwarted by some one or other; latterly by + that old woman ----, who has come here for nothing, + apparently, but as an obstacle; ---- is also a crying evil + to us. The General knows this, and wants to get rid of him, + but has not the nerve to supersede him; the whole state of + affairs here is bad to a degree; it is true we always thrash + the fellows when we can get at them, for they are + contemptible as an enemy in the open field, being formidable + in numbers only; but the immense resources placed in their + hands, by the possession of our magazine and arsenal, inside + a walled and fortified town, make it very difficult for an + army, unless provided with a proper siege equipment and + engineer park, to drive them out in orthodox fashion we + have certainly plenty of guns, but we have not men to work + them; and of the latter, thanks to ----, we have absolutely + nothing, so we do nothing but fire away long shots at the + distance of a mile, and repel the enemy's attacks; instead + of which we ought to have had our batteries close up to the + walls, and been through them, days ago. It was from the + conviction that we had no regular means of reducing the + place by the fire of our artillery, and at the distance we + now are from the walls, and that it was vain to expect our + commandant of artillery to attempt any bolder stroke than + ordinary with the few guns for which he had hands, which + induced me to press the capture of the place by assault, + blowing open the gates with powder bags, and rushing in with + the bayonet. All was arranged, and under Providence I + venture to believe success was certain, but as I say, all + was frustrated by terror and disobedience. I fear now + nothing can be done for many days, and until other troops + arrive; meanwhile the evil is spreading, and disaffection, + to use a mild term, increasing. I fear there is no room to + doubt that Dr. Hay is dead; he was actually hung, with other + civilians, in the market-place at Bareilly, after going + through a mock form of trial. All the Europeans at + Shahjehanpoor have, we hear, been murdered while they were + in church, at the same moment, as nearly as possible, that + the Bareilly tragedy was going on. + + _June 20th._--I am much better to-day, but still very weak, + yet work I must. There was a sharp fight again last evening. + The enemy came down and attacked our rear, and a sharp + conflict ensued between some 2,000 Sepoys with six guns, and + 300 Europeans with one gun. The result was as usual, but two + events occurred which were important for me. Colonel Becher + was shot through the right arm, and Captain Daly badly hit + through the shoulder. + + The consequence is, that I have in effect to see to the + whole work of the Quartermaster-General of the army; and in + addition, the General has begged me as a personal favor to + take command of the Guides until Daly has recovered. I at + first refused, but the General was most urgent, putting it + on the ground that the service was at stake, and none was so + fit, &c. &c. I do feel that we are bound to do our best just + now to put things on a proper footing, and after consulting + Seaton and Norman, I accepted the command. How ---- will + gnash his teeth to see me leading my dear old Guides again + in the field. If I can but keep it till Delhi is taken I + shall be satisfied, for I think I shall be able to do + something towards so favorable a result. Shebbeare was + appointed second in command at my request. He is an + excellent soldier. General Barnard[26] has written most + strongly in my favor, and has voluntarily pledged himself to + get me my majority as soon as ever I am a captain. I confess + I feel a little proud at being earnestly requested to take + again the command of which the machinations of my enemies + had deprived me. Our loss altogether last night was not more + than 50 killed and wounded; we took two guns;--enemy's loss + about 500. + + _June 21st._--I have been on horseback to-day for the first + time since this attack of illness, so I may be considered + finally recovered, only I still feel considerable weakness. + It is very annoying not to be quite up to the mark in these + stirring times, especially when so much work has fallen to + my lot. I am fortunate, however, in not being, like many of + our poor fellows, laid up with wounds and serious ailments. + God has been very good to me, and in nothing more so than in + preserving what is most precious to me from the horrible + danger and suffering of so many of our poor countrywomen and + children. How thankful I am now that Reginald exchanged into + an European corps. I never see any of these unhappy + refugees, as we call the poor officers whose regiments have + mutinied, wandering about the camp, without uttering a + mental thanksgiving that he is safe from that at least. I + feel more strongly every hour that I should not have been + justified in refusing the command of the Guides under + present circumstances. We are, in point of fact, reduced to + merely holding our own ground till we get more men. The + drain on our resources has been enormous, while those of the + enemy have proved so much greater, both in men, ammunition, + and strength of position, than we expected, and they have + fought us so much more perseveringly than was deemed + possible, that it has become imperatively necessary to be + stronger before striking the final blow. The plan for + carrying the city[27] by assault, which I feel convinced + would then have been successful, has now become + impracticable. The enemy are stronger, we are weaker; + besides that, they would be prepared for any _coup-de-main_ + now. General Johnstone is to be here by the 23d, we hope + with considerable reinforcements, and more will follow. I + trust that a few days then will end this business, as far as + Delhi is concerned, and so enable a part, at least, of the + force to move on towards Allygurh, and reopen the roads and + daks, and restore order for the time; but when the end will + be, who can say? + + The rising in Rohilcund will, I fear, assume formidable + proportions and give us much trouble, as I think we shall + scarcely be able to do anything there before the cold + weather. There is, in fact, every prospect of a long and + tedious campaign. May God's wisdom direct and His mercy + defend us! + + _June 22d._--The hottest day we have had yet; but while I + know that the hill stations are quiet, I can bear anything + with equanimity. The rumors down here, of all that has been + doing and feared at Simla, have been enough to unnerve any + one who does not know the truth. Lord W. Hay's judgment and + energy deserve every praise. Personally, I cannot but feel + gratified at the marked pleasure all hands, high and low, + have shown at my renewed command of the Guides. All + congratulate me as if they were personally interested; and + as to the men themselves, their vociferous, and I really + believe honest, delight is quite overpowering. The wounded + generally are doing well, poor fellows, considering the + heat, dirt, and want of any bed but the dry ground. Their + pluck is wonderful, and it is not in the field alone that + you see what an English soldier is made of. One poor fellow + who was smoking his pipe and laughing with the comrade by + his side, was asked, what was the matter with him, and he + answered in a lively voice, "Oh, not much, sir, only a + little knock on the back; I shall be up and at the rascals + again in a day or two." He had been shot in the spine, and + all his lower limbs were paralyzed. He died next day. + Colonel Welchman[28] is about again; too soon, I fear, but + there is no keeping the brave old man quiet. Poor Peter + Brown[29] is very badly wounded, but he is cheerful, and + bears up bravely. Jacob[30] has "come out" wonderfully. He + is cool, active, and bold, keeps his wits about him under + fire, and does altogether well. We are fortunate in having + him with the force. Good field-officers are very scarce + indeed; I do not wonder at people at a distance bewailing + the delay in the taking of Delhi. No one not on the spot can + appreciate the difficulties in the way, or the painful truth + that those difficulties increase upon us. The very large + reinforcements which the enemy are receiving, (the whole + Bareilly and Rohilcund force, some 5,000 men, are on their + way to join,) more than counterbalance the aid which can + reach us, so that when the last party arrives the odds will + still be immensely against us. It would not so much signify + if we could but get them into the open field, but for every + gun we can bring to bear upon them they can bring four + heavier ones against us. We drive them before us like chaff + in the field, but they can and do attack us in two or three + quarters at once, and our unfortunate soldiers are worked + off their legs. I do not say this to make matters look + gloomy, for I am as confident as ever of the result; but we + may be a long while yet, and a weary while too, before that + result is arrived at. Baird Smith will be here as Chief + Engineer in a day or two, and if we can manage to get some + batteries made suddenly, we may carry the city shortly; but + there are great obstacles. I regret more than ever that the + assault was not made on the night of the 11th, when they + were unprepared for us, and so much fewer in numbers. Now + they increase daily, and the city is so overflowing, that + the rascals are encamped outside the gates under cover of + their formidable batteries, and in the glacis; so much for + giving our arsenal into native keeping. All is well at Agra; + beyond that, we know nothing. + + _June 23d._--The rebels came out again this morning in + considerable force, with the avowed intention of attacking + us on all sides. They have been frustrated, however, save on + one point, and firing is still going on. They do little more + than annoy us, and the only great evil they cause, is the + keeping our men out for hours in this scorching heat. The + worst of all is, that we can do but little harm to them, as + they are well under cover. The rascals most forward to-day + are the Jullundur troops, who ought never to have been + allowed to join the king of the rebels here at Delhi; why + they were not pursued and cut up, is at present a mystery, + but indignation is strong in camp against those who suffered + their escape. + + General Johnstone has met with a serious accident at + Paneeput, I hear; most unfortunate indeed. + + _June 23d._--An amusing story is told _a propos_ of the + fight this morning. A rascally Pandy, thinking all was over, + put his head out of the window of one of the houses, in the + shade of which a few Europeans and Goorkhas were resting. + One of the latter jumped up, laid hold of the rebel by his + hair, and with one chop of his "kookrie" took off his head. + Atkinson should make a sketch of this for the _Illustrated + News_. Sarel, of the 9th Lancers, came in this morning, in + an incredibly short space of time, from his shooting + expedition in the interior, ten days' journey beyond Simla. + He reports all quiet there, thank God! I am sadly weak, I + find, and have been obliged to change my work from the + saddle to the pen more than once to-day. This want of + physical strength depresses me. It is a burden to me to + stand or walk, and the excessive heat makes it difficult for + me to recover from that sharp attack of illness. The doctors + urge me to go away for a little to get strength,--as if I + could leave just now, or as if I would if I could. + + _June 24th._--I have been in the saddle nearly all day, + though obliged occasionally to rest a bit when I could find + shelter. One of my halts was by the side of Alfred Light, + who has behaved magnificently under trial and difficulty. It + does me good to see the "Light of the ballroom" working away + at his guns, begrimed with dust and heat, ever cheery and + cool, though dead beat from fatigue and exposure. He is one + of a thousand, and a host in himself. + + The enemy turned us out very early, and the firing continued + without intermission till dark, and such a day; liquid fire + was no name for the fervent heat. Colonel Welchman got an + ugly wound in the arm, and Dennis was knocked down by the + sun, and numbers of the men; but nothing less than a + knock-down blow from sun, sword, or bullet, stops a British + soldier. How well they fought to-day; and to do them + justice, so did my old Guides and my new Sikhs, while the + little Goorkhas vied with any in endurance and courage; but + the mismanagement of matters is perfectly sickening. Nothing + the rebels can do will equal the evils arising from + incapacity and indecision. + + Fortunately, Neville Chamberlain has arrived, and he ought + to be worth a thousand men to us. I can but remember when + Lord Dalhousie gave me the command of the Guides, how + anxious he was for me to exchange it with him for the + Military Secretaryship at Lahore. Spite of all, I can never + regret not having yielded, for I feel that these two years + of persecution and suffering have been of service to me. I + can truly say, it is good for me to have been afflicted, and + I am conscious of being more fitted either for the Victoria + Cross or the soldier's grave! I do not think either that + Chamberlain bears me any ill-will, rather the contrary; but + did he do so, I would lose anything personally, for the sake + of having his influence predominant at head-quarters. I am + neither downhearted nor desponding when I say that with our + present chiefs I see no chance of taking Delhi. It might + have been done many days ago, (certes, it was not for want + of a distinct plan being before them or a willing leader,) + but they have not the nerve nor the heart for a bold stroke + requiring the smallest assumption of responsibility. Horses + are very scarce here, and I have the greatest difficulty in + getting my own men mounted. Mr. Montgomery is helping me + wonderfully with men, and I receive offers for service + daily, but in these mutinous times it is necessary to be + cautious. A telegraph from Agra says, "Heavy firing at + Cawnpore: result not known." + + _June 25th._--There is little doing to-day, save a vain fire + of long shots, and I fear nothing effective will be done + till the 8th and 61st arrive. I hope much from Chamberlain. + The General, though one of the kindest and best of men, has + neither health nor nerve enough for so responsible, and + really very difficult, a position as that he is now in. Our + loss in officers and men bears a sadly large proportion to + our successes. In the 1st Fusileers it is, too, melancholy: + Colonel Welchman with a very bad hit in the arm, in addition + to his sickness when he came to Delhi from Dugshai; Greville + down with fever; Wriford with dysentery; Dennis with + sunstroke; Brown with wounds. Jacob and the "boys" have all + the work to themselves, and well indeed do the boys behave, + with a courage and coolness that would not disgrace + veterans. Little Tommy Butler, Owen, Warner, all behave like + heroes, albeit with sadly diminishing numbers to lead. I am + vexed at the mistakes or falsehoods of the newspaper + reports. So far from having been wounded in the fight of the + 19th, I was not even present, but ill in bed. When Colonel + Becher came into camp wounded, I got up and struggled into + the saddle, and tried to get far enough to send up fresh + troops; but I had not got ten yards before I fell from my + horse, and was all but carried back to my tent again. + + I am more and more convinced that I was right not to persist + in my refusal to take again the command of the Guides. It + was so pressed on me, and surely the best eradication of the + reproach of removal was the being asked to reassume it in + times of difficulty and danger like these. + + That this is the general view of the case is shown by the + warm and hearty congratulations I meet with on all sides. + There is but one rule of action for a soldier in the field, + as for a man at all times: to do that which is best for the + public good; to make that your sole aim, resting assured + that the result will in the end be best for individual + interest also. I am quite indifferent not to see my name + appear in newspaper paragraphs and despatches; only content + if I can perform my duty truly and honestly, and too + thankful to the Almighty if I am daily spared for future + labors or future repose. + + The story prevalent in the hills, that 7,000 of the enemy + are pitched in the open plain, is a mere magnification of + the simple fact, that a surplus portion of the rebels have + encamped under cover of their guns, and close up under the + wall of the city, and remain there all night, but this is on + the side opposite us. We are not very well off, _quant a la + cuisine_. I never had so much trouble in getting anything + fit to eat, except when I dine with the General. Colonel + Seaton[31] lives in my tent, and is a great companion; his + joyous disposition is a perpetual rebuke to the croakers. + Don't believe what is said about our batteries doing no + harm. The same was said of Muttra, yet, when we entered, + scarcely a square yard was unploughed by our shot. One of + the native officers of the Guides (you know how ingenious + they are at disguise) got into the city as a spy, and + remained there four days. He reports great dissension and + quarrelling among themselves. Robbery and fighting and + everything that is bad, between the newly arrived rebels and + the city people. This account my own native newsletters + confirm. The 9th Native Infantry had already decamped, and + thousands would follow if they dared. This last, I doubt; + the spirit of bravado, if not of bravery, is as yet too + strong. The rascals in the last engagement came out in their + red coats and medals! + + _June 26th._--I have been so hard at work the whole day, + that I can only find time to say the enemy has made no + sortie to-day, but Pandy amuses himself with firing long + shots incessantly; all well, however. + + _27th._--We were turned out before I had hardly turned in, + by another attack of the rebels. This time a faint one, + which has been already repulsed with trifling loss on our + side. For a short time, however, the cannonade was very + heavy, and I have seldom been under a hotter fire than for + about three quarters of an hour at our most advanced + battery, covered every moment with showers, or rather + clouds, of dust, stones, and splinters; but we kept close, + and no one was hurt. There has been an outcry throughout + camp at ----'s having fled from Bhagput, the bridge which + caused me so much hard riding and hard work to get, some + time ago. A report came that a portion of the mutineers were + moving in that direction, and he fairly bolted, leaving + boats, bridge, and all! Yet he had with him all the Rajah of + Jheend's men, horse, foot, and guns, and never even saw the + twinkle of a musket. In fact, it is not at all sure that an + enemy was ever near him. By this conduct he has not only cut + us off from all communication with Meerut, but actually left + the boats to be used or destroyed by the enemy. Our + reinforcements are in sight, at least the camp of the 8th, + and I do trust no further delay will take place in our + getting possession of Delhi. The insurgents are + disheartened, and I have no doubt but that the moment we get + possession of a single gate the greater portion of them + will run out through the opposite ones. The only formidable + part of the enemy is their artillery, which is amazingly + well-served, and in prodigious abundance, as my experience + this morning abundantly proved. Harris, of the 2d European + Bengal Fusileers, was wounded this morning, but not + dangerously. All quiet at Agra, we believe, but no + particulars known. + + _June 28th._--I have just got orders to proceed to Bhagput, + some twenty-five miles off, on the Jumna, and see what the + real state of affairs is, and try to save the boats, so I + have only time to say I am much better and stronger, which + is a great comfort, for I could not have ridden the + distance, a few days ago. The rains have begun, and the air + is colder and more refreshing, though not exactly what one + could wish. Certainly the hot season in India is not the + pleasantest time in the year for campaigning, and this the + rascally mutineers were fully aware of before they began. + Colonel Greathed and the 8th came in this morning, and the + 61st will be here to-morrow. + + _June 29th._--I was thirteen hours and a half in the saddle + without intermission yesterday, and got back to camp after + midnight, very tired, but none the worse; fortunately, I had + a cloudy day and a tolerably cool breeze for my work. I + recovered the boats and found all quiet, in spite of ----'s + disgraceful flight. He had not even the sense or courage to + draw the boats over to our side of the river, consequently, + three were burnt and the whole place plundered. So much for + acting on native reports, without at least attempting to + ascertain their accuracy. The consequences are bad and + discreditable to a degree. + + I doubt whether General Barnard used the exact expression + reported regarding Tombs, but he did say, and well he might, + that he was as gallant and good a soldier as any in camp, + and so indeed he is. + + The fight of the 23d was a much more severe one than was + reported. It was not over till dark, and our loss was the + heaviest we have yet had to deplore, since we got here on + the 8th. + + Reports must not be depended on. The fact was, Major + Olpherts arrived early in the morning. I myself galloped out + to meet him, and as he passed, when the fight had just + commenced, he fired once at the enemy, and then came into + camp to rest his men after their long march. We were out the + whole day until dark, and half dead with fatigue. Colonel + Welchman suffers severely from his wound, but bears it + bravely, as does Peter Brown. + + Everything quiet to-day, no firing on either side. I do hope + this part of the business will soon be over, and that they + will only wait for the 61st and Coke's regiment, both of + which will be here to-morrow or next day. Colonel Seaton + himself recommended the disarming of his old Corps, the 35th + Native Infantry. To-day we hear it has been done. All was + safe at Cawnpore and Lucknow up to our last news. + + _July 2d._--I have been quite unable to write since the + 29th, on the night of which I was ordered off again to + Bhagput, to try to bring the boats down to camp, either to + make a bridge here or a "stop" for the enemy. The order was + given with the complimentary addenda from the General, + "because I can trust your judgment quite as much as your + energy." I expected to be back in good time on the 30th, but + the winds and waves were against me, and I could not get my + fleet of boats down the river. + + Shebbeare was with me, and we worked like a couple of + "navvies," passing the two days and one night on the banks + of the river, without shelter, and almost without food, for + we had nothing but a couple of "chupatties," each, and a + small tin of soup and a little tea, which I fortunately took + with me. Poor Shebbeare would soon lose the graceful rotund + of his figure if he were long on such short commons, but I + do not think any amount of starvation could reduce my + horizontal dimensions. + + All's well that ends well, however, and I succeeded in + getting every boat safe into camp last night. I missed the + skirmish of the 30th by being at Bhagput. The 61st have + arrived, rich in twenty officers. We are getting more + supplies now, and I have set myself up with plates and + dishes for the small charge of one rupee. Colonel Seaton's + traps and servants will be here to-day, and then we shall be + comfortable, for hitherto a very limited allowance for one + has been but small accommodation for two. For my new + regiment two complete troops are on their way from Lahore + and will be here on the 8th, and another troop from Jugraon + should be here in a week. Two more troops are preparing at + Lahore. + + Montgomery takes the most kind interest in my new Corps, and + I am rejoiced and comforted to find that he cordially + approves of my having accepted the Guides. I have as much + confidence in his judgment as in his kindness. ---- has been + shelved, and allowed to get "sick" to save him from + supersession. I do not like euphuisms. In these days men and + things should be called by their right names, that we might + know how far either should be trusted. + + Sir E. Campbell arrived here to-day by mail-cart, and will + be a valuable addition to the 60th, or he will belie his + descent from the Bourbons and Fitzgeralds. He is a man you + can always trust, which is saying something in these hard + times. + + _July 3d._--Whatever I may have sacrificed of pride and + personal feeling to a sense of duty, I shall be fully + rewarded by entering Delhi at the head of the Guides. Here + at least there is but one opinion on the subject. My poor + gallant Guides! they have suffered severely for their + fidelity to our cause, above a fourth of the whole having + been killed or wounded, including some of our best men. Koor + Singh, the little Goorkha Subadar who won the Order of Merit + in that stiff affair at Boree in '53, is gone, and others + whom we could ill afford to lose, now that so much depends + on the fidelity of the native officers,--the Guides more + than all. Surely, then, I am right, knowing and feeling that + my influence with them is so great, to sink every personal + consideration before the one great end of public safety, + which implies that of ourselves and those dear to us. If we + fail here at Delhi, not a soul in the Punjaub or Upper + Provinces would be safe for a day. + + _July 5th._--It was impossible for me to write by + yesterday's dak, for the rebels got into our rear during the + night of the 3d, and attacked Alipoor, the first stage from + hence on the Kurnal road. I was out reconnoitring, and saw + them moving out some five miles on our right. I reported + their position at 7 P. M. on the 3d, but not until 3 A. M. + of the 4th were any measures taken, by which time, of + course, they had attained their end, and were in full march + back to Delhi. At daybreak yesterday I pointed out their + exact whereabouts to Coke, (who commanded the party sent to + attack them,) and I did not get back to camp till 8 P. M.; a + hard day's work, especially as I had no breakfast, nor + indeed food of any kind, and hunger makes the heat tell. + + We beat 5,000 of the rebels in the morning, and were twice + attacked by upwards of 3,000 in the course of the day. I + took the Guides in pursuit (as soon as our guns had driven + the enemy from their position), and drove them into a + village. Unfortunately we did not do half as well as we + ought, for though Coke is a good commandant of a regiment, + and a good man for the frontiers, he is no general, and did + not manage well, or we should have cut up numbers of the + enemy and taken their guns. + + Our loss was about thirty or forty Europeans, and three of + my native officers temporarily disabled. Both men and horses + were terribly knocked up towards the end of the day, and + could hardly crawl back to camp, and no wonder. I was + mercifully preserved, though I am sorry to say my gallant + "Feroza" was badly wounded twice with sabre cuts, and part + of his bridle cut through, and a piece of my glove shaved + off, so it was rather close work. My men, who were most + engaged of all, escaped with the loss of one killed and six + wounded, and six horses put _hors de combat_. I am + dissatisfied with the day's work, inasmuch as more might + have been done, and what was done is only satisfactory as a + proof of the ease with which Anglo-Saxons can thrash + Asiatics at any odds. Yesterday they were at least from ten + to fifteen to one against us. To-day General Barnard has + been attacked with cholera, I grieve to say; and Colonel + Welchman is very ill indeed. The doctors dread erysipelas, + which at his age would be serious; beyond this, the wounded + are generally doing well. + + _July 6th._--Poor General Barnard died last night, and was + buried this morning. He sank rapidly, for anxiety, worry, + over-exertion, and heat had prepared his system, and it was + impossible for him to bear up against the virulence of + cholera. Personally, I am much grieved, for no kinder or + more considerate or more gentlemanly man ever lived. I am so + sorry for his son, a fine brave fellow, whose attention to + his father won the love of us all. It was quite beautiful to + see them together. + + I have just seen a copy of a very strong minute anent the + Bhagput affair, which shows the General was not disposed to + pass it over lightly. The civil authorities, however, are + determined to support ----, though in camp there is but one + opinion of his conduct. The present state of things is + terrible, enough to fret one to death,--no head, no brains, + no decision. Neville Chamberlain, though of decided + excellence as a man of action, is, I begin to fear, but a + poor man of business. Prompt decision in council is what we + want; there is no lack of vigorous action. There are plenty + to obey; but we want some one to command. We have seen + nothing of the enemy outside the walls since the 4th. I am + worked off my legs all the same, and the day is not half + long enough for what I have to do. To make matters worse, + too, poor Macdowell is down with fever: a sad loss just now + to "Hodson's Horse," as they call my growing corps. I am + sadly off for clothes, as we of course are only too glad to + help the poor refugees who come into camp with none. + + _July 8th._--We left camp at 2 A. M. with a considerable + force, and marched to a bridge some ten miles off, which we + blew up to prevent the enemy annoying us, and then marched + back again. I tried hard to induce Chamberlain, who + commanded, to march back by another road, which I had + reconnoitred, and which would have brought us close along + the rear and flank of the enemy, but he would not do so, + though admitting that I was right. We have had eleven hours + in the saddle and in the sun, merely for this trifling gain. + My face is like "General Gascoigne's," and my hands + perfectly skinless. I must get some dogskin gloves, for it + is as much as I can do to hold a sword, much less a pen. + There has been no fighting since the 4th, and my + news-writers from the city speak of much disheartenment, and + symptoms of a break-up; but I doubt this latter being more + than a report, while the enemy are so well provided both + with "_materiel_" and "_personnel_." + + I have just returned from a long chase after a party of the + enemy's horse, safe and unhurt, but drenched to the skin by + a cataract of rain. There has been some hard fighting + to-day. The 8th Irregulars from Bareilly came into our camp, + thanks to the defection of a party of the 9th Irregular + Cavalry, who were on picket duty. The rascals consequently + were enabled to get into our very lines, and cut down one + officer at his guns. There was a tremendous row and + confusion for a short time, but we soon put it to rights. I + had warned the authorities repeatedly, that the Irregulars + were not to be trusted, but they were too fainthearted or + "merciful" (Heaven forgive me for using such a word about + such villains) to disarm them, and both the regiments, about + which I reported, have since gone wrong. + + _July 10th._--We are nearly flooded out of camp by the rain, + and everything is wet and wretched but ourselves. I have no + respite from work, however, and have only time to say that + the ladies in the hills could not employ themselves better + or in a greater work of charity than in making flannel + shirts for the soldiers, for our stores are either in the + enemy's hands or not come-at-able. The soldiers bear up like + men, but the constant state of wet is no small addition to + what they have to endure from heat, hard work, and hard + fighting. I know by experience what a comfort a dry flannel + shirt is. + + There is a sad joke against me in camp, and I cannot help + joining in the laugh against myself, though enraged at + having been the victim of such a sell. Fancy my riding up to + a party of horse, and asking who they were, being told they + were our own men, 9th Irregulars, and then marching parallel + to them for three miles, and not three quarters of a mile + apart, when, had I known who they were, I could have + destroyed every man.[32] Mr. Saunders arrived in camp + to-day, looking as fat and well as possible, though he and + his pretty wife had a narrow escape and hard day's riding + from Moradabad. + + _July 11th._--Pen-work again all day, as the enemy seem to + prefer keeping under cover from the rain. + + Mr. ----'s story is so far true, that I did earnestly urge + the construction of a bridge with the boats I brought down + from Bhagput, but without success. There are difficulties, I + admit, and great ones, but I humbly think they might be + overcome now, as they certainly could three weeks ago, when + our plan of assault was suggested, and adopted by General + Barnard. There is a sad outcry in camp against Chamberlain + for having used his influence to prevent the disarming of + what remains of the 9th Irregulars. Numbers of them had + deserted, and one native officer, and those who were on + picket duty, actually admitted a party of the enemy into + our camp; and yet, forsooth, because they were Chamberlain's + regiment once on a time, the order to disarm them, which the + General had actually issued, was cancelled. I confess I + expected better things than this weakness, when our very + lives depend on firmness and decision. Light has just come + in off duty, so begrimed with smoke and powder as scarcely + to be distinguished even by his own men. He is admitted to + be one of the best of our officers, and certainly one of the + hardest working. Tombs always distinguishes himself. + + _July 12th._--300 of my new regiment have just arrived. 100 + more left Lahore on the 7th, and 100 will be here very soon + from the Sutlej. Mr. Montgomery has done me most essential + service, as I could never by myself (with another regiment + to command, and so much pen-work to do) have got so many men + together; and everything he does is so complete. He sends + figured statements giving all details regarding men and + horses, (these last are very difficult to get,) which will + save me much time and labor hereafter. He has been really + most kind, and has, moreover, during this troublous time, + evinced an energy, decision, and vigor for which I believe + the world hardly gave him credit. For officers, I hope to + have permanently, Macdowell, Shebbeare, (now acting as my 2d + in command of the Guides, and a most excellent officer,) and + Hugh Gough of the 3d Cavalry. Saunders made ----'s removal a + "sine qua non" before he would take charge of the district. + He came to me to recommend a good officer to command the + Jheend troops. I named that merry grig, George Hall, who is, + I believe, available, and a really good soldier. I have got + a very nice lad "pro tem." in the Guides, young Craigie, + who promises very well indeed. I have seven officers + attached to the Guides, but two are wounded, and Chalmers is + very ill. Young Ellis of the 1st Fusileers is down with + cholera, poor boy; and Colonel Welchman dangerously ill and + in great agony. I grieve deeply for the brave old man, for I + fear we shall lose him. + + _July 13th._--We have had news from Agra to-day up to the + 7th. The Neemuch rebels and others approached Agra from the + south. The 3d Europeans and D'Oyley's Battery went out to + meet them with the Kotah Contingent. The Contingent turned + against us as soon as they came in sight of the enemy. A + fight ensued, in which the mutineers got well beaten, + despite the treachery and great disparity of numbers; two of + their guns were taken. On our side we lost one gun, the + tumbrels having been blown up and the horses killed. All our + men's ammunition was expended, and they had to retire in + good order into the fort. D'Oyley was killed and two + officers wounded. Thirty casualties in all. The mutineers + then rushed into cantonments, which they burnt and pillaged; + then broke open the great jail and released the prisoners. + They did not venture near the fort, but marched off towards + Muttra, and will, I suppose, come here. The delay here is + sickening; if it continues much longer, we shall be too + weak-handed to attempt to take the place until fresh + regiments arrive. + + I inspected my three new troops this morning; very + fine-looking fellows, most of them. I am getting quite a + little army under me, what with the Guides and my own men. + Would to Heaven they would give us something more to do than + this desultory warfare, which destroys our best men, and + brings us no whit nearer Delhi, and removes the end of the + campaign to an indefinite period. + + _July 14th._--Only time[33] to say I am again mercifully + preserved, safe and unhurt, after one of the sharpest + encounters we have yet had. Shebbeare got wounded early in + the fight, so I led the Guide Infantry myself in the + skirmish of the villages and suburbs. I charged the guns + with some eight horsemen, a party of the Guide Infantry and + 1st Fusileers. We got within thirty yards, but the enemy's + grape was too much for our small party. Three of my + officers, Shebbeare, Hawes, and De Brett, slightly wounded, + and several men; but though well to the front, my party + suffered proportionably least. + + Of the Fusileers, who were with us, some sixty men were + wounded; Daniell's arm broken by a shot, Jacob's horse shot + dead under him, Chamberlain shot through the arm, little + Roberts wounded, and several more. + + Everybody wonders I was not hit; none more than myself. God + has been very merciful to me. Colonel Welchman better; Brown + also. More particulars hereafter. + + _July 15th._--I could only write a few words last night on + my return from the fight, worn out as I was with a severe + day's work. It is pretty much the same now, and while I + write I am obliged to have two men to keep the candle alight + with their hands, for the breeze gets up at night, and we + have all the "Kanats" of the tents down to enable us to + breathe; and having no shades to the candlesticks, it is + rather difficult to write even that I am safe. + + _July 16th._--I have just bade good-bye to Colonel Welchman. + The poor old man is better, but sadly pulled down and aged. + The doctors now think his arm may be saved, that it may + remain on, but it will never be of the slightest use to him + again, the elbow-joint is so much injured. He and Captain + Brown start to-morrow night, with a convoy of sick and + wounded men and officers, for Umbala and the hills. Of + these, the 1st Fusileers form a sad proportion. With one or + two exceptions, nothing could be better or more gallant than + the conduct of this regiment. Jacob, Greville, Wriford, all + admirable in the field, and the younger officers beyond all + praise; Butler, F. Brown, Owen, and Warner, markedly so. In + all the worst of the awful heat, dust, fatigue, work, and + privation,--and all have been beyond description,--our + plucky fellows have not only kept up their own spirits, but + been an example and pattern to the camp. If any one was down + in his luck, he had only to go to the Fusileers' mess and be + jolly. + + The story in the papers about the boot was essentially + correct for once, though how they should have got hold of it + I do not know, for I never mentioned it even to you, since + it certainly could not be called a wound, though a very + narrow escape from one. A rascally Pandy made a thrust at my + horse, which I parried, when he seized his "tulwar" in both + hands, bringing it down like a sledge-hammer; it caught on + the iron of my antigropelos legging, which it broke into the + skin, cut through the stirrup-leather, and took a slice off + my boot and stocking; and yet, wonderful to say, the sword + did not penetrate the skin. Both my horse and myself were + staggered by the force of the blow, but I recovered myself + quickly, and I don't think that Pandy will ever raise his + "tulwar" again. I should not have entered into all these + details about self but for those tiresome papers having made + so much of it. The fight on that day (the 14th) was the old + story. An attack in force on the right of our position; the + enemy were allowed to blaze away, expending powder, and + doing us no harm, until 4 P. M., when a column was sent down + to turn them out of the gardens and villages they had + occupied, and drive them back to the city. I had just + returned from a long day's work with the cavalry, miles away + in the rear, and had come back as far as Light's advanced + battery. I was chatting with him for a few minutes _en + passant_, when I saw the column pass down. I joined it, and + sent for a few horsemen to accompany me, and when we got + under fire, I found the Guide Infantry, under Shebbeare, had + been sent to join in the attack. I accompanied them, and + while the Fusileers and Coke's men were driving the mass of + the enemy helter-skelter through the gardens to our right, I + went, with the Guides, Goorkhas, and part of the Fusileers, + along the Grand Trunk Road leading right into the gates of + Delhi. We were exposed to a heavy fire of grape from the + walls, and musketry from behind trees and rocks; but pushing + on, we drove them right up to the very walls, killing + uncounted numbers, and then were ordered to retire. This was + done too quickly by the artillery, and some confusion + ensued, the troops hurrying back too fast. The consequence + was, the enemy rallied, bringing up infantry, then a large + body of cavalry, and behind them again two guns to bear on + us. There were very few of our men, but I managed to get + eight horsemen to the front. Shebbeare, though wounded, + aided me in rallying some Guide Infantry, and Greville and + Jacob (whose horse had just been shot) coming up, brought a + few scattered Fusileers forward. I called on the men to + fire, assuring them that the body of cavalry coming down + would never stand. I got a few men to open fire; my gallant + Guides stood their ground like men; Shebbeare, Jacob, + Greville, and little Butler, came to the front, and the mass + of the enemy's cavalry, just as I said, stopped, reeled, + turned, and fled in confusion; the guns behind them were for + the moment deserted, and I tried hard to get up a charge to + capture them; we were within thirty paces; twenty-five + resolute men would have been enough; but the soldiers were + blown, and could not push on in the face of such odds, + unsupported as we were, for the whole of the rest of the + troops had retired. My eight horsemen stood their ground, + and the little knot of officers used every exertion to aid + us, when suddenly two rascals rushed forward with lighted + port-fires in their hands, fired the guns, loaded with + grape, in our faces, and when the smoke cleared away, we + found, to our infinite disgust and chagrin, that they had + limbered up the guns and were off at a gallop. We had then + to effect our retreat to rejoin the column, under a heavy + fire of grape and musketry, and many men and officers were + hit in doing it. I managed to get the Guides to retire + quietly, fighting as they went, and fairly checking the + enemy, on which I galloped back and brought up two guns, + when we soon stopped all opposition, and drove the last + living rebel into his Pandemonium. My Guides stood firm, + and, as well as my new men, behaved admirably; not so all + who were engaged, and it was in consequence of that poor + Chamberlain got wounded; for seeing a hesitation among the + troops he led, who did not like the look of a wall lined + with Pandies, and stopped short instead of going up to it, + he leaped his horse clean over the wall into the midst of + them, and dared the men to follow, which they did, but he + got a ball in the shoulder. There is not a braver heart or + cooler head in camp; his fault is too great hardihood and + exposure in the field and a sometimes too injudicious + indifference to his own life, or that of his men. We are in + a nice fix here; General Reed is so ill he is ordered away + at once; Chamberlain is on his back for six weeks at least; + Norman, however, is safe and doing admirably; were he to be + hit, the "head-quarters" would break down altogether. There + will be no assault on Delhi yet; our rulers will now less + than ever decide on a bold course; and truth to tell, the + numbers of the enemy have so rapidly increased, and ours + have been so little replenished in proportion, and our + losses, for a small army, have been so severe, that it + becomes a question, whether now we have numbers sufficient + to risk an assault. Would to Heaven it had been tried when I + first pressed it. How many brave hearts have been sacrificed + in consequence. Coke's men suffered severely on the 14th + from getting too close, yet not close enough, to the city + walls. + + _July 17th._--But little private writing for me to-day, as I + have only just come back from Brigadier Hope Grant's tent, + whither I went on business, and I have been fully occupied + with news-writers _cum multis aliis_. I begin to think of + giving up this Quartermaster-General's work, now that times + are so changed. I began with poor General Anson, "under his + Excellency's personal orders;" I continued this work under + General Barnard at his request, and now for these last days + under General Reed; but he too is incapacitated by sickness, + age, and anxiety, and goes off to the hills to-night. + Colonel Curzon left for Simla yesterday. Colonel Congreve + also goes, so the head-quarters of the army are finally + breaking up. The Adjutant-General (Chamberlain) is badly + wounded, the Quartermaster-General (Colonel Becher) ditto, + though he does work a little in-doors, if one may use such + an expression of a tent, but he ought not to do even that + much, so badly hurt as he is. Colonel Young, Norman, and + myself are therefore the only representatives of the + head-quarter staff, except the doctors and commissaries. The + head-quarters of the army are now at Calcutta, General Pat + Grant's arrival having been announced, and this army has + dropped into merely a field force, commanded by Brigadier + Wilson as senior, with the rank of Brigadier-General. I can + hardly reconcile myself to throw up the Intelligence + Department now that I have had the trouble of getting it + into working order; but for my own sake I must do so, for it + is a terrible drag on me, and ties me down too much. I am + wonderfully well, thank God! and able to get through as much + work as any man; but commanding two regiments, and being + eyes and ears of the army too, is really too much! Shebbeare + and Macdowell are appointed to my regiment in general + orders--the former as second in command, but to continue for + the present with the Guides; the latter as adjutant, but to + act as second in command also, for the present. I hope to + have another officer or two in a few days, as more now + devolves on poor Mac than his fragile frame can well stand. + I wish his bodily strength was equal to his will and + courage. It is hot, oh, how hot! and we can have nothing but + a hand punkah occasionally; if our servants were to make + off, we should indeed be in a pretty predicament, but + hitherto they have been faithful and unmurmuring. + + _July 19th._--I was quite unable to write yesterday, as I + went out long before daylight; so with the exception of a + few minutes at 8 A. M. I was in the saddle until dark! We + had a smart engagement in the afternoon. I was sent for to + take the Guide cavalry down into the suburbs to support some + guns, and assist in driving the enemy back into the city. We + were commanded by a fine old gentleman, who might sit for a + portrait of Falstaff, so fat and jolly is he: Colonel Jones, + of the 60th Rifles. We got down to our point, close to the + walls of Delhi, easily enough, the rascally enemy being + ready enough to turn and fly for shelter; but to return was + the difficulty; the instant we began to draw off, they + followed us, their immense numbers giving them a great power + of annoyance at very slight cost to themselves. The brave + old colonel was going to retire "all of a heap," infantry, + guns, and all in a helpless mass, and we should have + suffered cruel loss in those narrow roads, with walls and + buildings on both sides. I rode up to him and pointed this + out, and in reply received _carte blanche_ to act as I saw + best. This was soon done, with the assistance of Henry + Vicars (Adjutant 61st) and Coghill, (Adjutant 2d Bengal + European Fusileers,) both cool soldiers under fire, though + so young, and we got off in good order and with trifling + loss, drawing the men back slowly and in regular order, + covered by Dixon's and Money's guns. My own men, whose duty + was the difficult one of enduring a very hot fire without + acting, behaved admirably, and I had the satisfaction of + losing only one killed and two wounded, besides a few + horses, who generally come off second best where bullets are + flying about. My poor "Feroza" was hit by one, but not + dangerously, and I was again most mercifully preserved + unharmed. I was out again early this morning reconnoitring, + and have only just returned in time to write even so much, + too much of myself as usual for my own feeling, but you will + have it so[34]. + + _July 20th._--I had a very fatiguing, because sunshiny, ride + yesterday, and a troublesome species of _reconnaissance_, to + prevent the enemy getting into our rear. Their name is + indeed "legion" compared with us. I should say, from all I + can ascertain by the news-letters, that there cannot be less + than 36,000[35] fighting men in Delhi, while we are barely a + fifth of that number, including cavalry and all! Our + position, however, is much strengthened, and we now beat + them with half the trouble we had at first, their appetite + for fighting being considerably lessened by having been so + repeatedly driven back; but alas! we only drive them back, + while we do not advance an inch. The odds have, moreover, + fearfully increased against us by their continued + accessions, and I confess I now see less and less hope of + success in an assault; when I first urged it, the enemy had + not more than 7,000 Sepoys in the city, while we had 2,000 + infantry alone. Now, as I said before, the case is very + different; for even were we to undertake an assault with a + reasonable prospect of success, if they should, in despair, + determine to defend the city inch by inch, or street by + street, we should not have men enough to secure our hold + upon it. In that case, the city people (all of whom are + armed) would join in the fray, and, considering what the + consequences of failure would be, and further, that to do + this much we should be obliged to use up every man + available, leaving no one, or next to none, to protect our + camp, sick, and wounded, from any attempt of the enemy, or + of our questionable friends, the country people, it becomes + a matter of serious and painful consideration. A want of + success, moreover, would now be productive of infinite + mischief. From hence to Allahabad, the fort of Agra and the + Residency of Lucknow are the only spots where the British + flag still flies. We are more to be considered now as an + isolated band, fighting for our very name and existence in + the midst of an enemy's country, than as an avenging army + about to punish a rebel force. Sir H. Lawrence is holding + out at Lucknow, but Cawnpore has fallen into the hands of + the rebels. Sir Hugh Wheeler, after three weeks' contest, + with, we hear, only 150 Europeans, in an evil hour + capitulated, on condition of being provided with boats and a + free passage to Allahabad; as soon as they were on board the + boats, the whole were massacred! What became of the women + and children we know not; it is hoped they might have been + sent away earlier and escaped; otherwise it is horrible to + think of what may have been their fate. Troops are + collecting fast at Allahabad, and I hope moving on towards + Cawnpore; some think we shall be forced to await their + arrival at or near Delhi, before we can do anything + effective. I trust earnestly that the city will not hold out + so long. The people within it are immensely disheartened, + and dissensions are rife among them. A split between the + Hindoos and fanatic Mahommedans is almost inevitable, and, + above all, money is getting scarce. Meantime, this "waiting + race" is very wearying to heart and body. + + ... I have determined on giving up the Assistant + Quartermaster-Generalship. It gives me more work than I + really can manage in such weather, in addition to the + command of two regiments. Macdowell promises admirably, and + I trust there is every hope of our having a nice body of + officers with "Hodson's Horse." Nothing further from Agra, + beyond the assurance that all was well there. + + _July 21st._--Just returned from a long _reconnaissance_, + and the post going out, so I have time but for little. Do + not believe what the idle gossips say, of my "doing the work + of two or three men." I strive to do my duty, but I cannot + consider I do more. I do not run wanton risks, but I cannot + stand by and see what ought to be done, without risking + something to do it. Had I not attempted what I did on the + 14th, even with the insufficient means at my command, we + should have been exposed to a disastrous loss of life, and + to the discredit of a reverse. That we cannot afford. It is + not only the possession of India which is at stake, not only + our name and fame as Englishmen, but the safety, life, and + honor of those nearest and dearest to us; were we to fail + here, the horrible scenes of Meerut, Delhi, Rohilcund, + Jhansee, and others, would be repeated in the Punjaub and + hill stations. Who, then, as husband, brother, father, son, + would hesitate to face any danger, any risk, which tended to + secure victory? I saw that our men were retiring (by order) + in great confusion, that five minutes more and the whole + party would be destroyed, and the fate of the column sealed, + for the enemy's cavalry and guns were opening on us at + speed. It was a natural impulse to rush forward, and nobly + was I aided by Jacob and Greville, and my handful of gallant + Guides; the tide was turned by the suddenness of the act; + the enemy were driven back, and our men had time to breathe. + This was not much to do, but it was a great deal to gain. + + _July 22d._--Again but a few lines, for I have been + regularly hunted all day. I told you that Sir H. Wheeler had + capitulated, and been treacherously destroyed with his + party; we have since heard that a force from Allahabad had + reached Cawnpore under Colonel Neill of the Madras + Fusileers, that Sir H. Lawrence has been succored, and that, + in point of fact, our power up to Agra had been + reestablished. God grant this be true. Agra is safe, and all + well; the troops which attacked it are afraid to come on + here, and have halted at Muttra. The force in Delhi is much + disheartened, and fights with gradually decaying energy. + Already we have beaten them back in twenty-three fights, + besides a few such affairs on my own private account, and + though with considerable loss to us, yet with comparative + ease, when you consider their overwhelming numbers. We had + an engagement on the evening of the 20th, in which Colonel + Seaton commanded our column, the 1st Fusileers, 61st Foot, + and Guides as usual. I had command of the Guide infantry, + and led the advance as well as covered the retreat; and + though we pushed close up to Delhi, we never had a shot + fired from the walls until we had set out on our return to + camp some way. They then came howling after us like jackals, + but the Guides were mindful of their old leader's voice, and + steadily kept them in check during the whole distance, so + completely, that not a European soldier was under fire, and + I only lost four men slightly wounded, while the enemy + returned in utter discomfiture. Poor Light has been very + ill, and Thompson has a bullet through his leg. Bishop also + is wounded; he retains the same calm composure of manner + under the hottest fire and hardest work, as he habitually + exhibited on the Mall. These are excellent officers, but + Tombs and Light are really splendid. I hope Chamberlain's + arm will be saved; he is a noble fellow, but of course has + his weaknesses. + + _July 24th._--I was quite unable to write yesterday. Pandy + chose an unusually inconvenient hour for his attack, and + kept us out until the afternoon, and then I was busied in + attending to our poor friend Colonel Seaton, who, I grieve + to say, was badly wounded, a musket-ball having entered his + left breast and come out at his back, providentially passing + outside the ribs instead of through his body; his lungs are, + however, slightly injured, either by a broken rib or the + concussion, and until it is ascertained to what extent this + has gone, he is considered in danger. I do not myself think + there is danger, as no unfavorable symptom has yet appeared, + except a slight spitting of blood; but he is so patient and + quiet that all is in his favor. I am deeply sorry for him, + dear fellow! and fervently pray that he may be spared to us. + There was little actual fighting; the rascals ran, the + instant they came in contact with our men; the only firing + being behind banks and garden-walls. Colonel Drought, late + 60th Native Infantry, was wounded; Captain Money of the + Artillery got a bad knock on the knee-joint, and Law of the + 10th Native Infantry killed; two killed and five wounded in + the 1st Fusileers, who, as usual, bore the brunt. After many + discussions pro and con, it has been arranged that I retain + the Intelligence Department and give up the Guides. My own + men require great attention, as they are now in considerable + numbers; so the General has begged me to relinquish the + Guides instead of the Assistant Quartermaster-Generalship; + the command of two regiments being an anomaly. I am very + ready to do this, though I regret the separation from the + men, and should have liked to have led my old corps into + Delhi; but it is best as it is. You at least will rejoice + that it greatly diminishes the risk to life and limb, which, + I confess, lately has been excessive in my case. The General + was very complimentary on my doings while commanding the + Guides, and "trusted to receive equally invaluable services + from my new regiment." I have little doubt of this, if I am + spared. I find General Barnard reported no less than four + times on my doings in the highest terms; and the last public + letter he ever wrote was a special despatch to Government in + my favor. It was, in fact, the only letter of the kind he + ever wrote, for death intervened just as he was setting to + work to bring those who had done well to the notice of + Government. + + They tell me I shall get pay for the Assistant + Quarter-master-General's Department,[36] as well as my + command allowance. For the Guides, of course I shall get + nothing; but, I must say, I work, not like a "nigger," + considering their work usually amounts to _nil_, but like a + slave, in the Intelligence Department. I have been deeply + shocked to hear that poor Christian, his young wife, and + babes were among the murdered in Oudh. Also Colonel + Goldney.... All is well at Agra; there are about 6,000 + individuals in the fort, with provisions for six months; + they are probably relieved by now, for we hear that six + English regiments were at Cawnpore on the 11th instant. This + cheers up the men, and makes them think that Government has + some thought for the gallant fellows here and elsewhere. I + sent by Martin, of the 75th, a parcel for Mrs. Hallifax, + containing, with other things, the old pistol her poor + husband gave me. I should have liked to have kept it as a + memorial of him, but as she wished for it, of course I + resign it; the other arms, except the revolver, which Dr. + Stewart says he lost, were packed up and sent to Umbala with + other things. + + _July 25th._--Well, yes, I did offer to go down the Doab + towards Agra and Cawnpore, to open the communication, and + ascertain exactly where the reinforcements were, and assist + them with cavalry in coming up towards Delhi. It would have + been of real use, and not so dangerous as this eternal + potting work here. I proposed to take 600 of my Horse, 250 + infantry of the Guides, and four guns; could I not have made + my way with these? I humbly opine I could. I do not mean to + say it was not a bold stroke, but in Indian warfare I have + always found "toujours l'audace" not a bad motto. I can + never forget how much we have at stake, that we have a + continent in arms against us; and I do think (and certainly + shall always act so) that every man should do not only his + duty but his utmost in a crisis like the present. + + _July 26th._--A parcel with flannel shirts, &c., arrived + last night. Those for the men I sent off to the hospital at + once, to the doctors' great delight. Macdowell declares that + the cap, his "jumpers," and the "baccy" Lord W. Hay was to + send, must be in the box, and demands them imperiously. He + is doing admirably, and promises to be a first-rate officer + of light horse. He rides well, which is one good thing, and + is brave as a lion's whelp, which is another. I only fear + whether he has physical strength for such work in such + weather. The whole country is a steaming bog. I keep my + health wonderfully, thank God! in spite of heat, hard work, + and exposure; and the men bear up like Britons. We all feel + that Government ought to allow every officer and man before + Delhi to count every month spent here as a year of service + in India. There is much that is disappointing and disgusting + to a man who feels that more might have been done, but I + comfort myself with the thought, that history (if Russell, + not Macaulay, writes it) will do justice to the constancy + and fortitude of the handful of Englishmen who have for so + many weeks--months, I may say--of desperate weather, amid + the greatest toil and hardship, resisted and finally + defeated the worst and most strenuous exertions of an entire + army and a whole nation in arms,--an army trained by + ourselves, and supplied with all but exhaustless munitions + of war, laid up by ourselves for the maintenance of our + Empire. I venture to aver that no other nation in the world + would have remained here, or have avoided defeat had they + attempted to do so. The delay as yet has been both morally + and politically bad in many ways, and the results are + already beginning to be manifest, but in the end it will + increase our prestige and the moral effects of our power. A + nation which could conquer a country like the Punjaub so + recently with an Hindostanee army, and then turn the + energies of the conquered Sikhs to subdue the very army by + which they were tamed; which could fight out a position like + Peshawur for years in the very teeth of the Affghan tribes; + and then, when suddenly deprived of the regiments which + effected this, could unhesitatingly employ those very tribes + to disarm and quell those regiments when in mutiny,--a + nation which could do this is destined indeed to rule the + world; and the races of Asia must succumb. This is a proud + feeling, and nerves one's arm in many a time of difficulty + and danger, as much almost as the conviction that we must + conquer, or worse than death awaits us. The intelligence of + Sir H. Wheeler's destruction came to us from too true a + source to be doubted,--it was in dear Sir Henry Lawrence's + own handwriting; and has been confirmed, alas, too surely. + All we do not know is whether the women and children were + massacred with the men, or whether they escaped, or were + reserved for a worse fate. + + One of my news-letters reports that eighteen women are in + prison under the care (?) of Nana Sahib (Bajee Rao + Peishwar's adopted son), who attacked Cawnpore. You must + remember at the artillery review a very "swell" looking + native gentleman, accompanied by another educated native, + who spoke French and other European languages, and was + talking a good deal to Alfred Light. Well, this was the + identical Nana Sahib who has done all this, and who must + even at that very time have been meditating the treachery, + if not the murders. + + There is not a word of truth in the report of "the King of + Delhi coming out for a final struggle." Rumor has been + saying so for weeks, with no foundation; the truth is, the + King is a mere puppet, a "ruse." He is old, and well-nigh + impotent, and is only used as authority for all the acts of + rebellion and barbarity enacted by his sons. The rascals + talk (in the city) of coming round on our rear, and + attacking us in the field. I only wish they would, for in + the open plain we should hunt them down like jackals. They + escape us now by flying back into the city, or under cover + of the heavy batteries from its walls. When (if ever) they + do come out, the General has proposed to put the whole of + the Irregular Cavalry under my command, and I trust to give + a tolerable account of the enemy, and show that "Hodson's + Horse" are capable of something, even already. + + Colonel Seaton is doing admirably, I am thankful to say. He + is patient and gentle in suffering as a woman, and this + helps his recovery wonderfully. + + _July 27th._--Since the 23d, hardly a shot has been fired + here. The news-letters from the city mention meetings in the + market-place, and talkings at the corners of the streets, + with big words of what they intend to do; but they (the + people) are actually cowed and dispirited, while their + rulers issue orders which are never obeyed. + + I fear our movements wait upon theirs. We have no one in + power with a head to devise or a heart to dare any + enterprise which might result in the capture of Delhi; and + alas! one cannot but admit that it would require both a wise + head and a very great heart to run the risk with so reduced + a force as we have here now. 2,200 Europeans[37] and 1,500 + Native Infantry are all that we now can muster. We have + reliable news from below, that, on or about the 14th, + General Havelock, with the first portion of the European + force, met and attacked the villain Nana, near Futteypore + (between Allahabad and Cawnpore), and beat him thoroughly, + capturing his camp, twelve guns, and seven lac of rupees. + The China troops had arrived: Lord Elgin having consented + to the employment of the whole. + + Sir P. Grant is coming up with these troops, "on dit," so + that in six weeks from the date of the Meerut massacre, + 11,000 European troops will have landed in India; what a + providential arrival, and what a lesson to Asiatics that + they can never contend with England. + + This news has put the whole camp, even the croakers, of whom + there are not a few, in high spirits. I only hope it is not + too good to be true. + + As a set-off against this, news has arrived that Tudor + Tucker, his wife, and Sam Fisher, are among the victims of + this horrible insurrection, also, poor James Thomason; and + of his brother-in-law's, Dr. Hay's, execution, there can be + no longer a doubt. How many hecatombs of Sepoys would it + require to atone for their deaths alone. When shall we see + the last; when know the full extent of these horrible + atrocities? The accounts make one's blood run fire. Our dear + Douglas Seaton has arrived in England, much restored by the + voyage, but not, I fear, sufficiently recovered to return, + as soon as he would hear of the outbreak. A sad blow for + him, poor fellow, for had he been here to command the + regiment, he would probably have been a full Colonel and C. + B. at the end. I am seriously uneasy at receiving no letters + from England, though mail after mail must have arrived, and + some people get their letters! therefore why not I mine? We + get none even from Agra, and of course not below it, except + by "Kossid," and they but little scraps, written half in + Greek characters, to mislead or deceive, if the unfortunate + bearer is stopped. They conceal them very ingeniously + between the leather of their shoes, or tied up in their + hair. I inclose one that came in even a more singular + letter-bag than either, rolled up in a piece of wax and + packed into a hollow tooth. + + ---- tells me that ---- was furious at my having the Guides, + but was compelled to acquiesce in it "as it was undoubtedly + the best thing for the public service." How he must have + winced when he was forced to confess that. + + _July 28th._--I have no news. The Pandies have not attacked + us since the 23d, and are much dispirited. In reply to your + and Mrs. ----'s wish to come to Delhi as nurses, I must say + honestly that there is no necessity for such a sacrifice. + Our position here is very different from that in the Crimea + and at Scutari. There the men died from want of care and of + the ordinary necessaries of life. Here there is no absolute + want of anything, except a genial climate and well-built + hospitals, neither of which you could supply. The men are + attended to immediately they are sick or wounded; and within + an hour, sometimes half that time, of his being wounded, a + soldier is in his bed, with everything actually necessary, + and the greatest medical attention. Unless any unforeseen + emergency should arise, I would strongly dissuade any lady + from coming to camp. + + I have always urged the authorities to send away, as fast as + possible, those who have arrived as refugees. We have a vast + camp, or rather position, five miles in circumference, and + we are constantly obliged to take every man into the field. + The guard for our sick is trifling enough, and our + difficulties would be increased were there women also to be + thought of; and God forbid that any more lives should be + risked in this dreadful servile war. There is also another + consideration of much weight against the tender sympathy + which prompts the offer. How is a delicate woman's + constitution to bear up against the evils of a tented field + in the rains, or render efficient service in such a climate + as this is now? They would all very speedily become patients + in the very hospitals which they came to serve and would so + willingly support. The flannel garments are invaluable, and + this is all that can be done for us by female hands at + present. + + _July 29th._--I have been so occupied with business all day + that I have only time to say we have had no more fighting, + and the whole atmosphere is still, but hot, oh, so hot! + General Wilson is unwell, and will probably break down, like + the rest. These sexagenarians are unfit for work in July. I + expect Napier will be with the advancing troops. I sincerely + hope so. He is the man to do something, if they will but let + him. + + _July 31st._--I intended writing more fully to make up for + my late short-comings, but the Pandies permit it not. They + made an attempt on our position this morning; nothing more, + however, than a distant cannonade. A large party have moved + round in our rear, and this has kept me in the saddle all + day. I have just returned, after some hours of the heaviest + rain I was ever out in, drenched to the skin, of course, and + somewhat tired, so judge what a comfort a dry flannel shirt + must be. There was no actual fighting, so with the exception + of keeping us out so long, and a great expenditure of powder + and shot, no harm was done. + + _August 1st._--The continued heavy rain promises to give me + more time for pen-work to-day, if no more takes place on + this side of Pandy-monium. The box has arrived safely with + the new "jumpers," &c. Lord William's additions are + invaluable. We have fresh accounts from below that every + European woman and child have been ruthlessly murdered at + Cawnpore. The details are too revolting to put on paper, + and make one's blood boil. Mothers with infants in their + arms murdered with fiendish cruelty, and worse than all, two + young girls just arrived from England are said to have been + only saved to meet a worse fate in some Mussulman's zenana. + There will be a day of reckoning for these things, and a + fierce one, or I have been a soldier in vain. You say there + is a great difference between doing one's duty and running + unnecessary risks, and you say truly; the only question is, + what is one's duty. Now, I might, as I have more than once, + see things going wrong at a time and place when I might be + merely a spectator, and not "on duty," or ordered to be + there, and I might feel that by exposing myself to danger + for a time I might rectify matters, and I might therefore + think it right to incur that danger; and yet if I were to + get hit, it would be said "he had no business there;" nor + should I, as far as the rules of the service go, though in + my own mind I should have been satisfied that I was right. + These are times when every man should do his best, his + utmost, and not say, "No; though I see I can do good there, + yet, as I have not been ordered and am not on duty, I will + not do it." This is not my idea of a soldier's duty, and + hitherto the results have proved me right. Poor Eaton + Travers, of Coke's regiment, was killed this morning. He had + just come from England _via_ Bombay, with a young wife, whom + he left at Lahore. Poor young thing, a sad beginning and end + for her. We send off convoys of the sick and wounded to + Umbala, where we hear they are well tended and are doing + well. Even here everything possible is done for them; Dr. + Brougham is an excellent man, and first-rate surgeon, quite + the man of the camp in his line, clever, indefatigable, and + humane. + + _2d._--The rebels attacked us about 5 P. M. yesterday, and + kept us at it till seven or eight this morning. Our people + kept steadily at their posts and behind intrenchments, and + drove them back with steady volleys every time they came + near. The result was, that they were punished severely, + while our loss was a very trifling one, not more than half a + dozen Europeans killed and wounded; it is next to impossible + ever to ascertain accurately what the enemy's loss is. + + Colonel Seaton is doing well; in three weeks' time I hope he + will be about again. Before this surely our rulers will + consent to take Delhi. Sickness is on the increase, and we + have been nearly losing another General. General Wilson was + very ill for a few days, but is now better. He is older, + however, by ten years than he was. The responsibility and + anxiety of what is certainly a very difficult position, have + been too much for him, and he has got into the way of being + nervous and alarmed, and overanxious even about trifles, + which shakes one's dependence on his judgment. These men are + personally as brave as lions, but they have not big hearts + or heads enough for circumstances of serious responsibility. + This word is the bugbear which hampers all our proceedings. + Would we could have had Sir Henry Lawrence as our leader; we + should have been in Delhi weeks ago. I hope Colonel Napier + is coming up with the force. He has head, and heart, and + nerve, and the moral courage to act as if he had; we hear + that the crisis is passing; all below Cawnpore is safe, and + all above Kurnal to Peshawur; while Lord W. Hay keeps the + more important hill stations steady. When all is over, our + power will be stronger than ever, principally because we + shall have got rid of our great sore, a native army. + + _3d._--4 P. M. and I have only just got out of the saddle, + and found on my arrival in camp the heaviest news that has + yet reached us. Report says that Sir Henry is dead! The news + wants confirmation, and God grant that it may be untrue. I + should lose one of my best friends, and the country (in Lord + Dalhousie's words on poor Mackeson) "one whose loss would + dim a victory." I cannot write more to-day; the news has + quite unnerved me. + + _4th._--Two letters have just arrived from General Havelock + at Cawnpore. They were written at an interval of ten days, + and mentioned his having had three successful fights, on the + 12th, 15th, and 16th of July, and the reoccupation of + Cawnpore. The first of these letters mentions a report that + Sir Henry had died on the 4th July, of wounds received on + the 2d; but the second letter, written ten days later, does + not even allude to a circumstance of such importance, and + the Sikh who brought it, and who left Havelock near Lucknow, + on his way to its relief, maintains that it is not true, and + that Sir Henry Lawrence was alive when he left, as letters + were constantly passing from Havelock's camp to the "Burra + Sahib." God grant, for his country's sake and for mine, that + it be not true. To the country his death would be worse than + the loss of a province; to me it would be the loss of my + truest and most valued friend. I hope, yet fear to hope, + that it may be a false report; yet what soldier would wish a + more noble, a more brilliant end to such a career? Havelock + has captured all the enemy's guns, and inflicted severe + punishment. The destruction of Sir Hugh Wheeler and his + party is fully confirmed, and Havelock was too late to save + the unfortunate women and children, who were massacred in + their prison, before his arrival, by their guards. Such + fiends as these our arms have never met with in any part of + the world. May our vengeance be as speedy as it will + unquestionably be sure! + + We (Hodson's Horse) are getting on very comfortably, and are + going to start a mess on our own account, so as to be ready + to march without difficulty when required. + + _5th._--To-day the accounts received from a native + Commissariat Agent, arrived at Meerut from Lucknow, are + positive as to Sir H. Lawrence being alive a fortnight after + he was said to have died. This, if reliable, is good indeed. + The letter I annex[38] from Colonel Tytler gives good news, + and the man who brought the letter, says there were fourteen + steamers and flats at Cawnpore when he left. The troops had + taken Bithoor, the Nana's place, and at first it was + uninjured, but the bodies of some English women were found + inside the Nana's house, on which the European soldiers, + excited to irresistible fury, destroyed every human being in + the place, and then demolished the building, not leaving one + stone upon another. The Nana himself, with his family, took + refuge in a boat on the river, and the native accounts add + that he sunk it, and all were drowned. This I strongly + doubt; such Spartan heroism could scarcely exist in the mind + of one who could violate and massacre helpless women and + children. Indeed, I hope it is not true; for it is one of my + aims to have the catching of the said Nana myself. The + hanging him would be a positive pleasure to me. I trust the + day of retribution is not far distant. + + _6th._--Small chance of much writing to-day, for just as I + have got into camp, after some hours' attendance on the + pleasure of the Pandies, who came out in force and + threatened an attack, I find that I have to start on a long + reconnoitring expedition, from which I cannot return till + late at night. This is unfortunate, as I have much pen-work + on hand, my necessary official writing being very onerous. I + was obliged to write as long a letter as I could to Lord W. + Hay, if but to thank him, in my own and others' name, for + the comforts he so thoughtfully sent us. + + I have a very complimentary letter from G. Barnes, the + Commissioner, as well as some others, enough to turn one's + head with vanity; but I have had bitter experience of its + rottenness, and take the flattery at its full value, namely, + "nil." I fear, from fresh reports arrived, that Havelock + will not come and help us after all. They say he has the + strictest orders to relieve Lucknow only, and that however + much he may desire to march on to Delhi, it is out of his + power to do so. It is true we do not want him. Delhi surely + must be taken as soon as ever the reinforcements get down + here from the Punjaub. Our rulers must then see the + necessity for action. + + _7th._--I returned at three o'clock this morning from a + forty miles' ride over the worst and wettest country I was + ever in, and I am thoroughly exhausted, though everybody is + wanting something, and I must attend to business first, and + then to rest. + + _8th._--I could write nothing but official papers all the + sedentary part of yesterday. I did not get in till 9 P. M. + The news from below mentions good dear old Dr. Lyell as + among the killed at Patna. Brave, noble fellow, his gallant + spirit has led him to the front once too often. He had + always as much of the warrior as of the surgeon in him. The + report has again gained ground of dear Sir Henry's death, + but my heart refuses credence to so great a misfortune. I do + trust that when the 52d arrive, we may be allowed to do + something better than this pot-shot work. Nicholson has come + on ahead, and is a host in himself, if he does not go and + get knocked over as Chamberlain did. The camp is all alive + at the notion of something decisive taking place soon, but I + cannot rally from the fear of dear Sir Henry's fate. How + many of my friends are gone. My heart is divided between + grief for those precious victims, and deep gratitude to God + for my own safety and that of those dearest to me. May He in + His mercy preserve me for further exertion and an ultimate + reunion, and if not, His will be done. I have a letter from + an unfortunate woman, a Mrs. Leeson, who was saved from the + slaughter at Delhi, on May 11th, by an Affghan lad, after + she had been wounded, and her child slaughtered in her arms. + She is still concealed in the Affghan's house. I heard that + there was a woman there, and managed to effect a + communication with her, through one of the Guides, and to + send her money, &c., and so I think the poor creature may be + preserved till we enter Delhi, if we fail in getting her + free before. I fear she is the only European, or rather the + only Christian (for she herself is hardly European), left + alive from the massacre. Her husband was the son of Major + Leeson, and a clerk in a Government office in Delhi. I have + sent one of our few prisoners up to Forsyth at Umbala, whom + we ironically call the "Maid of Delhi," though her age and + character are questionable, and her ugliness undoubted. She + actually came out on horseback, and fought against us like a + fiend. The General at first released her, but knowing how + mischievous she would be among those superstitious + Mahommedans, I persuaded him to let her be recaptured, and + made over for safe custody. It is a moot point whether any + assault will be made as soon as the 52d arrive. I can only + go on hoping, but I confess I am not very sanguine about + anything being done now. + + Our General, since his illness, has got a still weaker dread + of responsibility, and ceased to be nearly as vigorous even + as heretofore. Would indeed that we had had Sir H. Lawrence + here; that he may have been, and still be spared to us, is + my prayer! The consequences of longer delay will be more and + more disastrous to the health of the troops. Captain Daly + has not formally reassumed command of the Guides, though he + virtually does all the sedentary work. By an arrangement + which I cannot but think unwise, and which deprives the + corps of two thirds of its value, they have separated the + regiment into two, putting the cavalry into the Cavalry + Brigade under Hope Grant, and the infantry at the other end + of the camp under Shebbeare, and Major Reid of the Goorkhas, + who commands all the posts and pickets on our right. + + The Guides should not be separated, and should be kept as + much apart as may be from other corps. No regiment in the + world have done or will do better than they, with a little + prudence, and under an officer whom they like and can trust. + My own regiment is also in the Cavalry Brigade, and is very + hard-worked. It is bad for a young and unformed corps, but + there is such a scarcity of cavalry here, that I cannot even + remonstrate, and I get no small amount of [Greek: kudos] for + having so large a number of men fit to be put on duty within + two months of receiving the order to raise a regiment. I + shall have two more troops in with the 52d, and Nicholson + has given me fifty Affghans, just joined him from Peshawur, + which, added to thirty coming with Alee Reza Khan from + Lahore, will complete an Affghan troop as a counterpoise to + my Punjaubees.[39] + + We expect the movable column on the 12th or 13th, weather + permitting, and some other troops a day or two after. Sir P. + Grant is supposed to be at Cawnpore, but we have no tidings + later than Colonel Tytler's letter. There is no actual + fighting going on here, nothing except the usual cannonade. + The rebels bring out guns on all sides, and fire away day + and night, but bring no troops forward, and as we act + strictly on the defensive, we merely reply to their guns + with ours. The whole affair is reduced to a combat of + artillery, our leader's favorite arm, excellent when + combined with the other two, but if he expects to get into + Delhi with that alone, I guess he will find himself + mistaken. The news of disaffection in the city is daily + confirmed. On the 7th a powder manufactory exploded, and + they suspended the minister, Hakeem Ahsanoolah, and searched + his house; there they found a letter which had been sent + him, concocted by Moulvie Rujub Alee, which confirmed their + suspicions, so they plundered and burnt his house, while he + himself was only saved by taking refuge in the palace with + the King, his master, who it seems is kept close prisoner + there, his sons giving all orders, and ruling with a rod of + iron. They say, however, that the King has got leave to send + his wives and women out of the Ajmere gate to the Kootub. I + trust it may be so, for we do not war with women, and should + be sadly puzzled to know what to do with them as prisoners. + + _August 11th._--The bridge over the Jumna resists all + efforts for its destruction. Our engineers have tried their + worst, and failed. I have tried all that money could do, to + the extent of 6,000 rupees, but equally in vain. So there it + remains for the benefit of the enemy, whose principal + reinforcements come from that side of the city. Two + messengers of my own, arrived from Lucknow, leave little + hope of dear Sir Henry's life having been spared. I grieve + as for a brother.... + + Talking of jealousies, one day, under a heavy fire, Captain + ---- came up to me, and begged me to forget and forgive what + had passed, and only to remember that we were soldiers + fighting together in a common cause. As I was the injured + party, I could afford to do this. The time and place, as + well as his manner, appealed to my better feelings, so I + held out my hand at once. Now-a-days, we must stand by and + help each other, forget all injuries, and rise superior to + them, or, God help us! we should be in terrible plight. + + _August 12th._--This morning a force under Colonel Showers + moved down before daybreak towards the city, or rather the + gardens outside the city gates, and gave the enemy, who had + been ensconced behind the garden walls for a couple of days, + and given our pickets annoyance, a good thrashing, taking + four of their guns, and inflicting a heavy loss. All were + back in camp by 7 P. M., so it was a very comfortable + little affair. Our fellows did admirably. Captain Greville + captured one gun with a handful of men, getting slightly + wounded in the act. Showers himself, Coke, and young Owen, + were also wounded, and poor young Sheriff of the 2d mortally + so; the loss among the men was small in proportion to the + success. The return to camp was a scene worth witnessing, + the soldiers bringing home in triumph the guns they had + captured, a soldier, with musket and bayonet fixed, riding + each horse, and brave young Owen astride one gun, and dozens + clinging to and pushing it, or rather them, along with might + and main, and cheering like mad things. I was in the thick + of it by accident, for I was looking on as well as I could + through the gloom, when Coke asked me to find Brigadier + Showers and say he was wounded, and that the guns were + taken. I found Showers himself wounded, and then had to find + a field-officer to take command, after which, I assisted + generally in drawing off the men--the withdrawal or + retirement being the most difficult matter always, and + requiring as much steadiness as an attack. + + _August 13th._--I wish I could get some pay, but money is + terribly scarce and living dear; my favorite beverage, tea, + particularly so. I have therefore sent to Umbala for some. + + Ghoolab Singh's death is unfortunate at this juncture, but I + fancy we have too much to do just now to interfere with the + succession; we ought not to do so according to treaty, and + if Jowahir Singh tries to recover the country from his + cousin, Runbeer Singh, the King's son, why that is his + affair, not ours--though we should never be contented to let + them fight it out and settle it themselves. Poor Light has + been brought very low by dysentery, and can hardly crawl + about, but about he persists in going, brave fellow as he + is. What a contrast to ----, who has got away, sick or + pretending to be so, to the hills,--anything to escape work. + Greville is, I am thankful to say, not badly wounded, and as + plucky as ever. All well at Agra; no news from below. + + _August 14th._--On returning from a rather disheartening + _reconnaissance_ to-day, I found letters which soothed and + comforted my weary spirit, just as a sudden gleam of + sunlight brightens a gloomy landscape, and brings all + surrounding objects into light and distinctness. + + I am no croaker, but I confess sometimes it requires all + one's trust in the God of battles, and all the comforting + and sustaining words of those nearest and dearest to us, to + bear up boldly and bravely through these weary days. A + letter from good Douglas Seaton was among them. He little + thought that so soon after his departure we should all be + moving downwards, and that I should receive his letter in + his brother's tent in "Camp before Delhi;" his own dearly + loved regiment[40] "next door" to us. How wonderfully + uncertain everything is in India. I am interrupted by orders + to start to-night for Rohtuck, and must go and make + arrangements. + +FOOTNOTES: + +[23] One of the officers who witnessed this scene told me that the +exclamation of the men on meeting him was, "Burra Lerai-wallah," or +Great in battle.--_Ed._ + +[24] This had been one of the unfounded charges against him two years +before. + +[25] A Persian lady. + +[26] _From_ MAJOR-GENERAL SIR H. BARNARD, _Commanding Field Force, to +the_ ADJUTANT-GENERAL _of the Army_. + + "CAMP, DELHI, _June 16th, 1857_. + + "SIR,--While inclosing for the information of the + Commander-in-Chief the reports of the late attack made by + the enemy on the force under my command, I would wish to + bring to his notice the assistance I have received in every + way from the services of Lieut. W. S. Hodson, 1st Bengal + European Fusileers. + + "Since the arrival of his regiment at Umbala, up to the + present date, his untiring energy and perpetual anxiety to + assist me in any way in which his services might be found + useful, have distinguished him throughout, and are now my + reasons for bringing this officer thus specially to the + notice of the Commander-in-Chief. + + (Signed) + "H. M. BARNARD, + "_Major-General_." + + +[27] _Extract of a Private Letter from_ CAMP _to_ LORD W. HAY. + +"Hodson volunteered to lead the assault on the night of the 11th, but +the plan unfortunately was not adopted; a small building in front of +the gate, which he had fixed on as the rendezvous, is called 'Hodson's +Mosque.' It would probably have been his _tomb_, for few of the +devoted band would have escaped, though the city would have been +ours." + +A private letter from Camp of the 10th June, says, "Hodson, of the 1st +Fusileers, and old Showers are admitted to be the best officers in the +field." + +[28] 1st European Bengal Fusileers. + +[29] 1st European Bengal Fusileers. + +[30] 1st European Bengal Fusileers. + +[31] Sir Thomas Seaton, K. C. B. + +[32] "They went into the city, and reported that they had defeated the +great Lall Bahadoor (Red Warrior) and a large party of his horse, and +were rewarded accordingly."--_Letter from Camp._ [ED.] + +[33] _Extract from Letter of_ COLONEL (_now_ SIR T.) SEATON, _from +Camp, at this time_:-- + +"Hodson's courage and conduct are the admiration of all, and how he +gets through the immense amount of work and fatigue he does is +marvellous. + +"He has the soundest heart and clearest head of any man in camp." + +[34] "On the return of the detachment from the fight of the 18th, +Colonel Jones, who commanded, went to the General and begged to thank +Captain Hodson for his most gallant and efficient assistance, adding +his hope for no better aid whenever he had to lead for the +future."--_Extract from a Letter from Camp._ + +[35] It was ultimately ascertained that there were 70,000 or 75,000. + +[36] It was, however, _refused_ by the Government, though asked for in +the strongest terms of praise by Colonel A. Becher, Quartermaster-General, +and recommended by the General!--_Ed._ + +[37] European force before Delhi, August 1:-- + + Infantry, 2,000 + Cavalry, 500 + Artillery, 550 + ----- + 3,050 + + On actual daily duty, 2,007. + + +[38] "CAWNPORE, _July 26th_. + + "General Havelock has crossed the river to relieve Lucknow, + which will be effected four days hence. + + "We shall probably march to Delhi to-morrow, with 4,000 or + 5,000 Europeans, and a heavy artillery, in number, _not_ + weight. + + "The China force is in Calcutta, 5,000 men. More troops + expected immediately. We shall soon be with you.--Yours + truly, + + "B. A. TYTLER, + "_Lieut.-Col., Quartermaster-General,_ + "_Movable Column_." + + +[39] The uniform of "Hodson's Horse" was a dust-colored tunic, with a +scarlet sash worn over the shoulder, and scarlet turban, which gained +them the name of "the Flamingoes." + +[40] 1st European Bengal Fusileers. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + + SIEGE OF DELHI, CONTINUED.--ROHTUCK + EXPEDITION.--ASSAULT.--DELHI TAKEN.--CAPTURE OF + KING.--CAPTURE AND EXECUTION OF SHAHZADAHS. + + + BOHUR, NEAR ROHTUCK, _August 17th_. + + I have been unable to write since we left Delhi, as we have + been incessantly marching, and had no means of communicating + with any one. Even now I am doubtful whether this will reach + camp. We left Delhi during the night of the 14th-15th, and + marched to Khurkundah, a large village, in which I had heard + that a great number of the rascally Irregulars had taken + refuge. We surprised and attacked the village. A number of + the enemy got into a house, and fought like devils; but we + mastered them and slew the whole. Yesterday we marched on + here, intending to reconnoitre and harass "a la Cosaque" a + large party of horsemen and foot, with two guns, who have + been moving along from Delhi, plundering the wretched + villagers _en route_, and threatening to attack Hansie. + They, however, thought discretion the better part of valor, + and, hearing of our approach, started off at a tangent + before we got near enough to stop them. + + We have been drenched with rain, so I am halting to dry and + feed both men and horses, and then we go on to Rohtuck. I + have nearly 300 men and five officers,--Ward, Wise, the two + Goughs, and Macdowell,--all first-rate soldiers. I have + eighty Guides, and the rest my own men, who do wonderfully, + considering how sadly untrained and undisciplined they are. + We are roughing it in more ways than one, and the sun is + terribly hot; but we are all well and in high spirits, for + though it is a bold game to play, I am too careful to run + unnecessary risks, or get into a fix. I have done a good + deal already, and shall, I hope, recover Rohtuck to-day, + when I do trust the authorities will consent to keep it, and + not let us have the work to do twice over, as at Bhagput. + + * * * * * + + _To_ COLONEL BECHER, _Quartermaster-General_. + + MY DEAR COLONEL,--We are getting on very well. I hope to + take Rohtuck to-day, and I trust arrangements will be made + for keeping it. The country will then be quiet from Hansie + to Delhi. The Jheend Rajah should be told to take care of + the district. I believe Greathed did make this arrangement, + but Barnes put some spoke in the way, so that the Rajah is + uncertain how to act. Please tell Greathed from me that + there is nothing now to prevent the restoration of order + here. I wish I had a stronger party, for though I feel quite + comfortable myself, yet I should like more troops, for the + sake of the men, who are not quite so easy in their minds. + The road by Alipore, Boanah, and Khurkundah is the best. The + canal is easily fordable at Boanah, and just below that + place (at the escape) it is quite dry, the banks having + given way. We polished off the Khurkundah gentry in style, + though they showed fight to a great extent. It has had a + wonderfully calming effect on the neighborhood. I hope the + Jheend troops, or some troops, may be sent here. The Jheend + men would more than suffice. + + Yours very sincerely, + W. S. R. HODSON. + + * * * * * + + CAMP, DUSSEEAH, NEAR ROHTUCK, _19th August_. + + This is the first rest since Bohur; we have had very hard + work, great heat, and long exposure; but, thank God, are all + well and safe, and have done some business. I marched from + Bohur on the evening of the 17th. On reaching Rohtuck, we + found the Mussulman portion of the people, and a crowd of + Irregulars drawn up on the walls, while a considerable party + were on a mound outside. I had ridden forward with Captain + Ward and a few orderlies to see how the land lay, when the + rascals fired, and ran towards us. I sent word for my + cavalry to come up, and rode slowly back myself, in order to + tempt them out, which had partly the desired effect, and as + soon as my leading troop came up, we dashed at them and + drove them helter-skelter into the town, killing all we + overtook. We then encamped in what was the Kutcherry + compound, and had a grateful rest and a quiet night. The + representatives of the better-disposed part of the + population came out to me, and amply provided us with + supplies for both man and beast. The rest were to have made + their "amende" in the morning; but a disaffected Rangur went + off early, and brought up 300 Irregular horsemen of the + mutineers,--1st, 13th, 14th, and other rebels,--and having + collected about 1,000 armed rascals on foot, came out to + attack my little party of barely 300 sabres and six + officers. The Sowars dashed at a gallop up the road, and + came boldly enough up to our camp. I had, a few minutes + before, fortunately received notice of their intentions, and + as I had kept the horses ready saddled, we were out and at + them in a few seconds. To drive them scattering back to the + town was the work of only as many more, and I then, seeing + their numbers, and the quantity of matchlocks brought + against us from gardens and embrasures, determined to draw + them out into the open country; and the "ruse" was eminently + successful. I had quietly sent off our little baggage + unperceived, half an hour before, so that I was, as I + intended, perfectly free and unfettered by _impedimenta_ of + any sort. I then quietly and gradually drew off troop after + troop into the open plain about a mile to the rear, covering + the movement with skirmishers. My men, new as well as old, + behaved coolly and admirably throughout, though the fire was + very annoying, and a retreat is always discouraging, even + when you have an object in view. My officers, fortunately + first-rate ones, behaved like veterans, and everything went + on to my complete satisfaction. Exactly what I had + anticipated happened. The enemy thought we were bolting, and + came on in crowds, firing and yelling, and the Sowars + brandishing their swords as if we were already in their + hands, when suddenly I gave the order, "Threes about, and at + them." The men obeyed with a cheer; the effect was + electrical; never was such a scatter. I launched five + parties at them, each under an officer, and in they went, + cutting and firing into the very thick of them. The ground + was very wet, and a ditch favored them, but we cut down + upwards of fifty in as many seconds. The remainder flew back + to the town, as if, not the Guides and Hodson's Horse, but + death and the devil were at their heels. Their very numbers + encumbered them, and the rout was most complete. + Unfortunately I had no ammunition left, and therefore could + not without imprudence remain so close to a town filled with + matchlock men, so we marched quietly round to the north of + the town, and encamped near the first friendly village we + came to, which we reached in the early afternoon. Our + success was so far complete, and I am most thankful to say + with very trifling loss, only two men rather severely + wounded, eight in all touched, and a few horses hit. + Macdowell did admirably, as indeed did all. My new men, + utterly untrained as they are, many unable to ride or even + load their carabines properly, yet behaved beyond my most + sanguine expectations for a first field, and this success, + without loss, will encourage them greatly. + + This morning I was joined by a party of Jheend horse, whom + my good friend the Rajah sent as soon as he heard I was + coming Rohtuck-wards, so I have now 400 horsemen, more or + less, fresh ammunition having come in this morning, and am + quite independent. I hear also that the General has at my + recommendation sent out some troops in this direction; if + so, order will be permanently restored in this district. In + three days we have frightened away and demoralized a force + of artillery, cavalry, and infantry some 2,000 strong, beat + those who stood or returned to fight us, twice, in spite of + numbers, and got fed and furnished forth by the rascally + town itself.[41] Moreover, we have thoroughly cowed the + whole neighborhood, and given them a taste of what more + they will get unless they keep quiet in future. We count + eighty-five killed, and numbers wounded, since we left + Delhi, which is one good result, even if there were no + other. One of them was a brute of the 14th Irregular + Cavalry, who committed such butchery at Jhansi. No letters + have reached me since I left camp, and I am not sure that + this will reach there safely. It is a terribly egotistical + detail, and I am thoroughly ashamed of saying so much of + myself, but you insisted on having a full, true, and + particular account, so do not think me vainglorious. + + LURSOWLIE, _August 22d_.--I rode over to this place from our + little camp at Sonput, eight miles off, to see Saunders and + Colonel Durnsford. I find that two of my new troops have + been detained on the road, but will reach Delhi in a day or + two, and others from Lahore will soon arrive. I think the + business at Rohtuck has been very creditable to us, but I + can write no more than the assurance of our safety and + well-being. + + CAMP, SONPUT, _August 23d_.--I could only write a few + hurried lines yesterday. Late in the evening I got a note + from General Wilson, desiring me to look out for and destroy + the 10th Light Cavalry mutineers from Ferozepoor. He + authorized my proceeding to Jheend, but without going + through the Rohtuck district. Now, as to do this would + involve an immense detour, and insure my being too late, and + consequently having a long and fatiguing march for my pains, + I wrote back to explain this, and requested more definite + instructions. He must either say distinctly "do this or + that," and I will do it; or he must give me _carte blanche_ + to do what he wants in the most practicable way, of which I, + knowing the country, can best judge. I am not going to fag + my men and horses to death, and then be told I have exceeded + my instructions. He gives me immense credit for what I have + done, but "almost wishes I had not ventured so far." The old + gentleman means well, but does not understand either the + country or the position I was in, nor does he appreciate a + tenth part of the effects which our bold stroke at Rohtuck, + forty-five miles from camp, has produced. "_N'importe_," + they will find it out sooner or later. I hear both + Chamberlain and Nicholson took my view of the case, and + supported me warmly. + + I am much gratified by General Johnstone's exertions in my + favor, though I have not the slightest idea that they will + eventuate in anything; but the motive is the same. Let me do + what I will, I have made up my mind to gain nothing but the + approval of my own conscience. I foresee that I shall remain + a subaltern, and the easygoing majors of brigade, + aides-de-camp, and staff-officers will all get brevets, C. + B.'s, &c., for simply living in camp, and doing their simple + duties mildly and without exertion. The Victoria Cross, I + confess, is the highest object of my ambition, and had I + been one of fortune's favorites I should have had it ere now + even, but I have learnt experience in a rough school and am + prepared for the worst; but whether a lieutenant or + lieutenant-general, I trust I shall continue to do my duty, + to the best of my judgment and ability, as long as strength + and sense are vouchsafed to me. + + CAMP, DELHI, _August 24th_.--I returned here this morning at + 2 P. M., very tired and unwell, and not able to write much, + for I have been obliged to have recourse to the doctor. + + People have got an absurd story about my being shut up in a + fort, without food or chance of escape! The General's + aide-de-camp tells me the old man believed this ridiculous + report and was fairly frightened, getting no sleep for two + nights. However, he fully admits the good service we have + rendered, and every one is making a talk and fuss about + it,--as if success were uncommon! I find strong hopes of our + making an assault on the city as soon as the siege train + arrives, which will be in about thirteen days. Havelock + seems unable or unwilling to move on, but we can hardly want + him, for surely we shall have ample means for taking the + city shortly. + + I am to have a surgeon attached to my regiment at once, as I + represented how cruel it was to send us out on an expedition + without a doctor or a grain of medicine. We had eight + wounded men, and two officers had fever on the road, and + nothing but the most primitive means of relieving them. I + asked for Dr. Charles, but there are so many senior to him + waiting for a turn, that I must be content for the present + with what I can get. I hope, however, to have Charles + ultimately, for he is skilful, clever, a gentleman, and a + Christian. + + Nicholson has just gone out to look after a party of the + enemy with twelve guns, who had moved out yesterday towards + Nujjufghur, threatening to get into our rear. I wanted to + have gone with him, but I was laughingly told to stay at + home and nurse myself, and let some one else have a chance + of doing good service. This was too bad, especially as + Nicholson wished me to go. + + _26th._--It is 4 P. M., and I am only just free from people + and papers, but good news must make up for brevity. General + Nicholson has beaten the enemy gloriously at Nujjufghur, + whither he pushed on last evening. He has taken thirteen + guns, and all the camp equipage and property. Our loss was + small for the gain, but two of the killed were + officers,--young Lumsden of Coke's Corps, a most promising + fellow, and Dr. Ireland. The victory is a great one, and + will shake the Pandies' nerves, I calculate. All their shot + and ammunition were also captured. The 1st Fusileers were as + usual "to the fore," and did well equally as usual. I am + much disappointed at not having been there, but Mactier + would not hear of it, as the weather was bad, and I should + have run the risk of another attack of dysentery, from which + I had been suffering. I am half annoyed, half amused at the + absurd stories about the Rohtuck business. We were never in + any extremity whatever, nor did I ever feel the slightest + anxiety, or cease to feel that I was master of the + situation. Danger there must always be in war, but none of + our own creating, as the fools and fearful said, ever + existed; would that folks would be contented with the truth + and reality of our position, and not add to its + _desagremens_ by idle fears and false inventions. + + _27th_.--I have been up to my eyes in work all day again, + and not had the pen out of my hand all day, except when on + horseback with the men. Two troops arrived yesterday, and I + have 250 spare horses to mount them, so that we are getting + on by degrees. Such an experiment as raising a regiment + actually in camp on active (and very active) service, was + never tried before. + + I most decidedly object and refuse to allow Mr. ---- to + publish any extracts whatever from my letters. I say nothing + that I am ashamed of, nothing that is not strictly true, but + my remarks on men and measures, however just, would make me + many enemies, and my misfortunes have taught me, though I + may not condescend to conciliate, at least to do nothing to + offend. If, however, it will be any amusement to the loved + ones at home to have some true sketches of this lamentable + siege, and the progress in it of one dear to them, that is + quite another affair, and I confess I should like to have + some such references myself to look over hereafter. + + _28th._--I am somewhat surprised at not hearing from Agra, + but I cannot be sure that my letter reached there, as + several of the "Kossids" have been "scragged" on the road. + Sir P. Grant will not have a long course to run, as Sir C. + Campbell has been sent out to command, and is in India, I + fancy, by this time. Havelock, we hear, has retreated, + leaving Lucknow still unrelieved. I cannot understand this, + but we have not sufficient information to enable us to + judge. After all, Nicholson is the General after my heart. + + _29th._--I have just returned from a ride of twelve hours, + leaving camp at three A. M., on a reconnoitring expedition, + and have only time before the dak closes to say that I am + safe and well. I found no enemy, and everything quiet in the + direction of Nujjufghur, where I was to-day, over and beyond + Nicholson's field of battle of the 25th. + + _30th._--I have been writing and listening all this morning + till I am tired, a man having come in from Delhi, with much + assurance and great promises; but he was sent back rather + humbler than he came, for he fancied he should make terms, + and could not get a single promise of even bare life for any + one, from the King downwards. If I get into the palace, the + house of Timur will not be worth five minutes' purchase, I + ween; but what my share in this work will be, no one can + say, as there will be little work for horsemen, and I do not + now command any infantry to give me an excuse. I hope Sir C. + Campbell will be here to lead us into the city, which seems + probable at our present rate of no-progress. He is a very + good man for the post of Commander-in-Chief, as he has had + great experience in India and elsewhere, and that, recent + experience. Mansfield comes out with him as chief of the + staff, with the rank of Major-General. + + _31st._--I have little public news for you; all is expected + here. The siege train will be in by the 3d or 4th, I fancy, + and then I trust there will be no more waiting. + + The letters from Agra show that a much greater and more + formidable amount of insurrection exists than we were + prepared to believe. Large bodies of insurgents have + collected in different places all over the country, all well + supplied with arms and guns. These are under the orders of + different Nawabs, Rajahs, and big men, who think that now is + their time for rule. None of these will be formidable as + soon as the army is disposed of, but for a long time to come + we shall have marching and fighting, punishing and + dispersing, and it is to be expected that bodies of the + fugitives from Delhi will join the standards of these + insurgent leaders, and give us trouble here and there. The + fall of Delhi will not be the end, but rather the beginning + of a new campaign in the field; but the very day the active + portion of the work is over, I shall ask to go to some good + station, and organize and discipline my regiment, and get it + properly equipped, and fit for service. At present it is + merely an aggregation of untutored horsemen, ill-equipped, + half clothed, badly provided with everything, quite unfit + for service in the usual sense of the term, and only forced + into the field because I have willed that it shall be so; + but it would take six months' constant work to fit it + properly for service. Generally when a regiment is raised, + it is left quietly at one station until the commanding + officer reports it "fit for service," and it has been + inspected and reported upon by a general officer, when it is + brought "on duty" by order of the Commander-in-Chief. My + idea of being able to raise a regiment when in the field, + and on actual, and very active service, was ridiculed and + pooh-poohed, but I stuck to it that it could be done, and + General Anson was only too willing I should try, hitherto + with success, and with the considerable gain, to an army + deficient in cavalry, of having a good body of horsemen + brought at once on duty in the field. How long it may be + before I am able to get to a quiet station for the purpose + required, it is impossible to foresee. I shall try to get + sent to Umbala, or as near the Punjaub as possible, because + my men are all drawn from thence, and it will be easier to + recruit, than at a greater distance from Sikh-land. I have + got six full troops, and another is on its way down. + + _September 1st._--This is muster-day, and a very busy one to + me, but I have written a minute letter to go by Kossid to + Agra once more. The poor wretch who took my last was + murdered on the road, so of course, the letter never reached + Agra. The dak by Meerut is again suspended, so we can only + send by Kossid. I have to-day got a new subaltern, a Mr. + Baker, of the late 60th Native Infantry, and a doctor, so we + are seven in all. I could not succeed in getting Dr. Charles + just yet, but hope to do so eventually. Little Nusrut Jung + has been allowed to come to me from the Guides, and I have + made him a jemadar at once. It is astonishing how well he + reads and remembers English. The Testament you gave him is + his constant companion, he tells me, and he is as interested + as ever in the history of "our wonderful prophet." The + Persians are certainly a very intelligent race, this one + particularly so, and the seeds you have sown will surely + bring forth fruit to his eternal benefit hereafter. More + than half the Guides want to come to my new corps, but this + is of course out of the question. I am sending for Heratees + and Candaharees, the farther from Hindostan the better. Mr. + Ricketts, too, is collecting men from his district. I have + at present 200 spare horses, but as I am to raise 1,200 or + 1,400 men, I fear mounting them will be a difficulty; it is + very difficult to work in a camp on service where so little + can be got or bought. Here come more news-letters from the + city, and myriads of notes, besides post-time and parade, + all at once! I shall be glad when Delhi falls, and I cease + to be _Times_, _Morning Chronicle_, and _Post_, all in + one![42] + + _2d._--... "Hodson's Horse" made a very respectable show + indeed last evening, when paraded all together for the first + time, and I was much complimented on my success; there are + some in the last batch from Lahore whom I shall ultimately + get rid of, wild low-caste fellows, and they did not behave + very well the other day at the Ravee with Nicholson; but, + taken altogether, I am very well satisfied, and trust they + will eventually turn out well, and do credit to the hard + work I have with them. Colonel Seaton is better,--_i. e._, + his wound is healed,--but he suffers much pain from the + tender state of the scarce united muscles when he moves. + The weather is very trying just now, and very unhealthy. + Poor Macdowell is unwell, and I fear he will have to go away + sick; he is far from strong, which is his only fault, poor + boy. I like him increasingly, he is a thorough gentleman. + For myself, I am wonderfully well, that is, as well as most + in camp, though somewhat pulled down by heat, fatigue, and + dysentery, and I am literally one of the "lean kine." All is + quite quiet here; only a few occasional shots from the + batteries. The Pandies are quarrelling among themselves, and + are without money; they cannot hold together much longer, + and I fear will break up if we do not speedily take the + place. Only a chosen band (!) will rally round the King, + who, after all, is but a name, for his villanous sons are + the real leaders. The train is to be here to-morrow or next + day, and 56 guns are to open on the walls at once. We hear + that Captain Peel, of Crimean celebrity, is on his way up to + Allahabad, with a naval brigade and some sixty-eight + pounders from his ship _The Shannon_. Glorious, this. Surely + with the brave little army which has withstood all (and none + but ourselves can know what that "all" comprises) the trials + of these last months, and our own brave "tars," we shall + speedily conquer this rebellious city, and make the last of + the house of Timur "eat dirt." + + _September 3d._--Nothing is going on here of public + importance, and everything is stagnant, save the hand of the + destroying angel of sickness; we have at this moment 2,500 + in hospital, of whom 1,100 are Europeans, out of a total of + 5,000 men (Europeans), and yet our General waits and waits + for this and that arrival, forgetful that each succeeding + day diminishes his force by more than the strength of the + expected driblets. He talks now of awaiting the arrival of + three weak regiments of Ghoolab Singh's force under Richard + Lawrence, who are marching from Umbala. Before they arrive, + if the General really does wait for them, we shall have an + equivalent to their numbers sickened and dying from the + delay in this plague spot. "Delhi in September" is + proverbial, and this year we seem likely to realize its full + horrors. The train will be here to-morrow or next day, and I + hope our General will not lose a day after that. He is a + good artillery officer, with an undue estimate of his own + arm of the service. He seems to realize the old saying, that + officers of a "special arm," such as artillery and + engineers, do not make generals. Wilson, for instance, looks + upon guns as engines capable mathematically of performing + perfect results, and acts as cautiously as if in practice + such results were ever attained by Asiatic gunners, + forgetting all our glorious Indian annals, all the + experience of a British army, and hesitating before an + Indian foe! I never hear these old gentlemen talk without + thinking of Sir Charles Napier's remarks on the Duke's + comments on "Colonel Monson's retreat," and the heroic way + in which he had read and profited by the lesson. + + As to the extracts from my letters which Mr. B---- has asked + for, I must decidedly refuse; even supposing them to be of + the importance which he professes to consider them, there is + a vast distinction between my publishing, or allowing to be + published, my letters, and letting my friends read or make + use of them. I am perfectly at liberty to write and speak + freely to my friends, and they may show such parts of my + letters as they think fit, to men in power and in + Parliament; and these may again make use, in debate or in + council, of knowledge thus gained, and details thus + imparted, which would be otherwise beyond their reach. All + this is right, fair, and of every-day occurrence; but I + myself, as a military officer, have no right to publish, or + permit to be published, comments written, in the freedom of + private correspondence, on my superiors, their acts, and + proceedings. + + I have not the smallest objection to any of our friends + seeing my written opinions, provided they know them to be + extracted from private letters, and never intended for + publication. I have no objection to Lord William Hay sending + a copy, if he chooses, to Lord Dalhousie, or Lord + Ellenborough himself even; but I cannot give permission to + any one to publish what would be so injurious to my + interests. You will think I have grown strangely + worldly-wise; but have I not had bitter experience? + + _September 4th._--There is nothing to tell of public news, + and even if there were I have no time to tell it, for I am + very busy and hard-worked, and only too thankful to get a + few minutes to say I am safe and well. I have never written + of public matters except as regarded myself. As to the + stories about me at Rohtuck, the papers have repeatedly + published the true as well as the false version of the + tale,--even the _Lahore Chronicle_ got it pretty correctly; + and after all, it is of very little consequence what the + papers say as long as the correct version goes to Government + and my friends. I sincerely trust we shall be in Delhi + before the 15th. + + _September 5th._--Poor Macdowell has had a bad attack of + fever, which has brought him very low. He will have to go to + the hills, I very much fear. The amount of sickness is + terrible; we have 2,500 men in hospital, and numbers of + officers besides. Another of the 61st, Mr. Tyler, died of + cholera to-day. I would give a great deal to get away, if + but for a week, but I must go where I can do most towards + avenging the past, and securing our common safety for the + future. No arrangements are making for any movements after + the capture of Delhi; we sadly want a head over us. + + _September 6th._--To-night I believe the engineers are + really to begin work constructing batteries, so that in two + or three days Delhi ought to be taken. If General Wilson + delays now, he will have nothing left to take; all the + Sepoys will be off to their homes, or into Rohilcund, or + into Gwalior. News from Cawnpore to 25th August has been + received. Up to that date Lucknow was safe, but with only + fifteen days' provisions left; and apparently no vigorous + measures being taken to relieve the place. Havelock has not + enough men, he says; and report adds that the + Governor-General has forbidden other regiments to move on, + wishing to keep them at Benares to cover Calcutta. This + appears incredible. The Sepoys in Delhi are in hourly + expectation of our attack, and the cavalry keep their horses + saddled night and day, ready to bolt at a moment's + notice,--so say the news-letters. I suspect that, the moment + we make an attack in earnest, the rebel force will + disappear. Of public news I have none beyond this, and I am + still, like every one else, in the dark as to what we do + after Delhi is taken, or where and when we go. If the + campaign lasts very long I shall be forced to go home next + year, for even my health will not stand against many more + months of wear and tear like the last. Yet who can say what + even a day may bring forth, or can venture to make plans for + a future year, after the experiences of the last? God's + merciful providence has hitherto preserved me most + wonderfully from myriads of no common dangers, and I humbly + pray that I may be spared to see my home, and those who + make home so dear, once more. Home, altered and bereaved as + it is since I left it, still holds the precious sisters and + brothers of the past, and the bright new generation with + whom I long to make acquaintance. + + _September 7th._--News has just been received up to the 27th + from Cawnpore: the garrison in Lucknow had been attacked by + the enemy in vast numbers, headed by a lot of "Ghazees." + They were repulsed with such severe loss that the enemy + would not venture to try that game again, were the siege to + be protracted for two years; they say 150 Ghazees, and + between 400 and 500 Sepoys were killed. Colonel Otter was + appointed commandant of Allahabad, at which I rejoice, for + he will "come out strong" whenever he has a chance. One of + our batteries was armed (_i. e._, guns put into it) last + night, and the bigger one will be made to-night; so that by + the 9th I trust Delhi will be ours. + + _September 8th._--To-day two new batteries, constructed + during the night for the heavy guns, opened on the walls and + bastions of the city, and the cannonade on both sides has + been very heavy; to-morrow other batteries will be ready, + and on the following day fifty guns, I trust, will be at + work on the doomed city. Very little loss was experienced + during the night, only two men being hit; and the casualties + to-day have been surprisingly few. I cannot believe there + will be any serious resistance when once the enemy's guns + are silenced. There is at present nothing to lead one to + suppose that the enemy have any intention of fighting it out + in the city, after we have entered the breach. All, I fancy, + who can, will be off as soon as we are within the walls. The + General has not decided yet on the operations which are to + succeed Delhi; he says he shall send a strong column in + pursuit, which I hope will be under Nicholson, but he has + not settled who is to go, or who to stay. I trust I may be + among the pursuers. I am constantly interrupted by business, + and the necessity of watching the enemy, lest any attempt + should be made to turn our flank while we are busied with + the batteries in front. For myself, I am not necessarily + much exposed to fire, except every now and then; I never run + into danger unless obliged to do so for some rightful + purpose, and where duty and honor call. + + _Sept. 9th._--... To descend to life's hard struggle; our + guns are blazing away, but only in partial numbers as yet, + the work having been necessarily distributed over two nights + instead of one. The garrison at Lucknow is all well, and + likely to continue so, for they have plenty of wheat, though + no European supplies. However, British soldiers have worked + and fought on bread and water ere now, and will do it again; + and I have no doubt the gallant 32d will keep up their + spirit and their fame. Reinforcements were reaching + Cawnpore, and Sir J. Outram was on his way up with 1,500 + more soldiers and some artillery. Cholera, their worst + enemy, had disappeared, and their communication with + Calcutta was quite open. Sir Colin had reached Calcutta, and + taken command of the army. I do hope he will come up country + at once, and Colonel Napier with him. Poor Alfred Light, + after five weeks' severe illness, leaves to-night for the + hills, to save his life. Hay has been written to, to take + him in; if he cannot, I am sure you will do so. Poor fellow! + I have a real regard for him, and it is a terrible + disappointment that he cannot be at the actual taking of + Delhi, having been so long before the walls. Sickness is + terribly on the increase, and Wilson talks of getting into + Delhi on the 21st. If the sickness does increase he won't + have a sound man left by the 21st. + + I was up till 2 A. M. in the trenches, examining the work, + and helping what little I could,[43] and almost ever since I + have been on horseback, and a terrible hot day it has been + in all ways. Some of the enemy's horse came out and began to + poach on our preserves, and I had to go after them; they are + such essential cowards that it is impossible to bring them + to a regular fight; they will not come from within reach of + their shelter, running off at once to cover, where it would + be madness to go after them. The new batteries did not begin + to-day, after all; they were not quite ready, and the + engineers would not let them open fire.... I am very much + pleased with ----'s letter, and rejoice that he is out on an + expedition; the change of air will do him good after that + frightful cholera. His story[44] of the soldier might be + matched by many a rough compliment I get from the men of the + 1st Fusileers; the most genuine perhaps, certainly the most + grateful to my feelings, of any I receive; a soldier is + generally the best and shrewdest judge of an officer's + qualifications. + + _September 11th._--There is no public news, except that the + batteries are working away at the walls; but our engineers + have failed terribly in their estimate of the time required + for the works, and all the batteries are even yet not + finished. It is now, however, only a question of days, one + or two more or less, and Delhi must be ours. I shall be very + thankful to get away from here. I look upon this as the very + worst climate I have ever been in, and another month would + make us all ill. Another of my officers, Captain Ward, is + very ill, and two more are ailing. Macdowell, I am thankful + to say, is a little better. The natives, too, are very sick, + and a large number are in hospital; in short, we want to be + in Delhi. + + _September 12th._--I was interrupted in the midst of my + pen-work this morning by an alarm (which proved to be a + false one) of an attack of cavalry on our rear; it turned us + all out, and kept me in the saddle till now, 5 P. M., so I + can only say I am safe and unhurt. I trust in three days + Delhi will be ours. I fancy my share in the assault will be + one of duty rather than of danger. The cavalry have but + small work on these occasions. I cannot yet tell what will + occur after the capture. I fancy a column under Nicholson + will be pushed on to Agra or Cawnpore, and I hope my + regiment will be of the party. + + _September 13th._--I find I am to accompany Nicholson's + column at his own request, but where we are to go is + unknown; whether in pursuit of the rebels who are fast + evacuating Delhi, or towards Agra, we know not; Nicholson + strongly urges the former. I am very glad for my own sake + that I am to go on, for this place is dreadfully unhealthy, + and I feel that I shall certainly be ill if I remain here + much longer. In fact, I had made up my mind not to remain if + possible, and when Nicholson urged my going on with him I + was only too ready to second the motion, for I am able to + work and to fight, and I must do so as long as I can. Some + of the Gwalior troops have crossed the Chumbul River, and + are supposed to be threatening Agra. However, the fall of + Delhi will make every difference in their proceedings, and + show them that we can do something, though so late; we are + looking forward to a little "active service" to-morrow; may + God grant success to our arms, and safety to our brave band + as much as may be. + + _September 15th._--I was totally unable to leave the field + yesterday until dark, and long after post-time, but I + ascertained that a telegraphic message was sent to Simla. I + sent one up as soon as possible, for transmission to you + through Lord W. Hay, but Colonel Becher had forestalled + me.... The breaches made by our artillery were successfully + stormed early in the morning, with but little loss then; our + loss, subsequently, however, I grieve to say, was most + distressing, and that, in attempting unsuccessfully the + capture of the Puhareepore and Kishengunge suburbs. The + whole extent of our loss is not yet known, but that already + ascertained is grievous to a degree. First, poor Nicholson + most dangerously wounded, at a time, too, when his services + were beyond expression valuable.[45] The 1st European Bengal + Fusileers was the most tried, and suffered out of all + proportion, save in the especial case of the Engineers, of + whom ten, out of the seventeen engaged, have been killed or + wounded. Chesney and Hovenden among the latter, though not + badly. Of the Fusileers, poor Jacob was mortally wounded, + since dead, I grieve to say; Greville, badly; Owen, + severely; Wemyss and Lambert, slightly; Butler, knocked down + and stunned; F. Brown and Warner, both grazed. Of officers + attached to the regiment, Captain Mac Barnett was killed; + Stafford, wounded; Speke, mortally so; what a frightful + list! Besides this, Captain Boisragon was wounded badly, + with the Kumaon battalion; so that, of the officers of the + 1st Fusileers engaged yesterday, only Wriford, Wallace, and + myself, escaped untouched. My preservation (I do not like + the word escape) was miraculous. For more than two hours we + had to sit on our horses under the heaviest fire troops are + often exposed to, and that, too, without the chance of doing + anything but preventing the enemy coming on. Brigadier Hope + Grant commanded, and while I doubt his judgment in taking + cavalry into such a position, I admit that it was impossible + for any man to take troops under a hotter fire, keep them + there more steadily, or exhibit a more cool and determined + bravery than he did. My young regiment behaved admirably, as + did all hands. The loss of the party was of course very + severe. Of Tombs's troop alone, twenty-five men (out of + fifty) and seventeen horses were hit. The brigadier and four + officers composing his staff all had their horses killed, + and two of the five were wounded. The brigadier himself was + hit by a spent shot; Tombs escaped, I am delighted to say, + from a similar spent ball. Our success on the whole was + hardly what it should have been, considering the sacrifice, + but the great end of getting into Delhi was attained. About + one third of the city is in our power, and the remainder + will shortly follow, but that third has cost us between 600 + and 700 killed and wounded.[46] I am most humbly and + heartily grateful to a merciful Providence that I was + spared. May the God of battles continue His gracious + protection to the end, and enable me once more to be + reunited to all most precious to me on earth. + + * * * * * + + _Letter from_ LIEUTENANT MACDOWELL, _2d in command Hodson's Horse_. + + "DELHI. + + "On the night of the 13th September, final preparations were + made for the assault on the city. Brigadiers and commanding + officers (our little army boasts of no generals of + divisions) were summoned to the General's tent, and then + received their instructions. At 1 o'clock A. M. on the 14th, + the men all turned out silently, no bugles or trumpets + sounding, and moved down in silence to the trenches. The + batteries all this time kept up an unceasing fire on the + city, which responded to it as usual. On arriving at the + trenches the troops lay down, awaiting the signal, which was + to be given at daybreak, and which was to be the blowing in + of the Cashmere Gate, towards which a party of Engineers and + Sappers moved off at about 3 A. M. The assault was to be + made in three columns: the first was to blow open the + Cashmere Gate, the second to escalade the Water Bastion, and + the third to escalade the Moree Bastion, both of which had + been pronounced practicable. As I was with the cavalry all + the time, I saw nothing of the storming, but it is + sufficient to say it succeeded on every point, and by 8 A. + M. we were inside the walls, and held all their outworks. + + "Now began the difficulty, as from the small force we had, + it was very hard work to drive a large body of men out of + such a city as Delhi. It took four days to accomplish, but + at length, on the morning of the 20th, the flag of Old + England floated gracefully out over the palace of the Great + Mogul. And now for what we (the cavalry) did. At 3 A. M.[47] + we moved down in column of squadrons to the rear of our + batteries, and waited there till about 5 A. M., when the + enemy advanced from the Lahore Gate with two troops of + artillery, no end of cavalry, and a lot of infantry, + apparently to our front. I think they intended to try and + take our old position now that we had got theirs. In an + instant horse artillery and cavalry were ordered to the + front, and we went there at the gallop, bang through our own + batteries, the gunners cheering us as we leapt over the + sand-bags, &c., and halted under the Moree Bastion, under as + heavy a fire of round shot, grape, and canister, as I have + ever been under in my life. Our artillery dashed to the + front, unlimbered, and opened upon the enemy, and at it they + both went 'hammer and tongs.' Now you must understand we had + no infantry with us. All the infantry were fighting in the + city. They sent out large bodies of infantry and cavalry + against us, and then began the fire of musketry. It was + tremendous. There we were (9th Lancers, 1st, 2d, 4th Sikhs, + Guide Cavalry, and Hodson's Horse) protecting the Artillery, + who were threatened by their infantry and cavalry. And fancy + what a pleasant position we were in, under this infernal + fire, and never returning a shot. Our artillery blazed away, + of course, but we had to sit in our saddles and be knocked + over. However, I am happy to say we saved the guns. The + front we kept was so steady as to keep them back until some + of the Guide infantry came down and went at them. I have + been in a good many fights now, but always under such a + heavy fire as this with my own regiment, and then there is + always excitement, cheering on your men, who are replying to + the enemy's fire; but here we were in front of a lot of + gardens perfectly impracticable for cavalry, under a fire of + musketry which I have seldom seen equalled, the enemy quite + concealed, and here we had to sit for three hours. Had we + retired, they would at once have taken our guns. Had the + guns retired with us, we should have lost the position. No + infantry could be spared to assist us, so we had to sit + there. Men and horses were knocked over every minute. We + suffered terribly. With my usual good luck I was never + touched. Well, all things must have an end. Some infantry + came down and cleared the gardens in our front, and as their + cavalry never showed, and we had no opportunity of charging, + we fell back, and (the fire being over in that quarter) + halted and dismounted.[48] All this time hard fighting was + going on in the city. The next day, and up to the morning of + the 19th, we did nothing (I am now speaking exclusively of + the cavalry brigade) but form in line on the top of the + ridge, ready to pursue the enemy should they turn out of the + city in force."[49] + + _September 16th._--I have just returned from a very long and + terribly hot ride of some hours to ascertain the movements, + position, and line of retreat of the enemy, and I can do no + more than report my safety. I grieve much for poor Major + Jacob, we buried him and three sergeants of the regiment + last night; he was a noble soldier. His death has made me a + captain, the long wished-for goal; but I would rather have + served on as a subaltern than gained promotion thus. + Greville and Owen are doing well, but I much fear there is + no hope for poor Nicholson; his is a cruel wound, and his + loss would be a material calamity. You may count our real + officers on your fingers now--men, I mean, really worthy the + name. General Wilson is fairly broken down by fatigue and + anxiety, he cannot stand on his legs to-day; fortunately, + Chamberlain is well enough to go down and keep him straight; + and Colonel Seaton also,--two good men, if he will be led by + them. All is going on well; the magazine was carried by + storm this morning, with nominal loss, and our guns are + knocking the fort and palace about. All the suburbs have + been evacuated or taken. I have just ridden through them, + and all the enemy's heavy guns have been brought into camp. + In forty-eight hours the whole city, I think, with its seven + miles of _enceinte_, will be ours; our loss has been very + heavy: 46 officers killed and wounded, 200 men killed, and + 700 or 800 wounded. + + _September 17th._--All is going on well, though slowly; the + Sepoys still occupy a portion of the city, and are being + gradually driven backwards, while the palace and fort are + continually played upon by shell and shot; not above 3,000 + or 4,000 of the rebel troops remain in the city. + Head-quarters are there, and I am going down immediately to + take up my quarters with the staff. I expect to-morrow will + see the last of it, but there is no calculating with + anything like certainty on the proceedings of these + unreasoning wretches. I am thankful to say Nicholson is a + little better to-day, and there appears some hope of his + recovery, though a very slight one. Mr. Colvin is dead: + another celebrity taken away in this time of trial. The home + mail of the 10th of August has arrived, but brought no + letters for me as yet, but very few have arrived in all. The + Government at home seem at last awaking to a sense of the + importance of this crisis in Indian affairs. + + _September 18th._--There is nothing worth speaking of doing + here. We are still shelling the fort and palace, but as + slowly, alas, as possible. I am writing in great haste, in + order to go down and see my "intelligence" people. Some of + the enemy are trying negotiation. I only hope they may find + it is too late, and that we may pursue and destroy the + wretches whom we have to thank for so much barbarity and + bloodshed. + + _September 19th._--We are making slow progress in the city. + The fact is, the troops are utterly demoralized by hard work + and hard drink, I grieve to say. For the first time in my + life I have had to see English soldiers refuse repeatedly to + follow their officers. Greville, Jacob, Nicholson, and Speke + were all sacrificed to this. We were out with all the + cavalry this morning on a _reconnaissance_, or rather + demonstration, for some miles, and got a wetting for our + pains; however, rain at this season is too grateful to be + complained of. + + _September 20th._--I have been much shocked (even familiar + as I have become with death) by poor Greathed's[50] sudden + death yesterday from cholera; the strongest and healthiest + man in camp snatched away after a few hours' illness. Sir T. + Metcalfe also is very ill with the same cruel disease; what + a harvest of death there has been during the past four + months, as if war was not sufficiently full of horrors. The + rebels have fled from the city in thousands, and it is all + but empty; only the palace is still occupied, and that we + hope to get hold of immediately, and so this horribly + protracted siege will be at an end at last, thank God. None + but those who fought through the first six weeks of the + campaign know on what a thread our lives and the safety of + the Empire hung, or can appreciate the sufferings and + exertions of those days of watchfulness and combat, of + fearful heat and exhaustion, of trial and danger. I look + back on them with a feeling of almost doubt whether they + were real or only a foul dream. This day will be a memorable + one in the annals of the Empire; the restoration of British + rule in the East dates from the 20th September, 1857. + + IN THE ROYAL PALACE DELHI, _September 22d_.--I was quite + unable to write yesterday, having had a hard day's work. I + was fortunate enough to capture the King and his favorite + wife. To-day, more fortunate still, I have seized and + destroyed the King's two sons and a grandson (the famous, or + rather infamous, Abu Bukr), the villains who ordered the + massacre of our women and children, and stood by and + witnessed the foul barbarity; their bodies are now lying on + the spot where those of the unfortunate ladies were exposed. + I am very tired, but very much satisfied with my day's work, + and so seem all hands. We were to have accompanied the + movable column, but to-day it is counter-ordered, and we + remain here.[51] + + _September 23d._--When shall I have time to write really a + letter? It seems as if I were each day doomed to fresh labor + and worry, and I long to shake off the whole coil, and go + where I can find repose and peace. Fortunately, my health + stands the wear and tear, and as my success has been great I + must not grumble.... I came to camp this morning to see + after the march of a detachment of my regiment which is + ordered, after half a dozen changes, to accompany a movable + column which is ordered to proceed towards Agra to-morrow. I + am to remain here, and to tell the truth, the business is so + mismanaged that I have ceased to care whether I go or stay. + I fancy they find me too useful here. We move down bodily to + or near the town to-morrow, and everything is in confusion + and bustle. + + _September 24th._--Brigadier Grant, like dear Sir Henry + Lawrence, (though both married men themselves,) says that + soldiers have no business to marry; under the idea that + anxiety for their wives' welfare and safety often induces + men to hesitate to run risks which they would otherwise + cheerfully undergo. I, on a less selfish principle, question + very much whether men have any right to expose their wives + to such misery and anxiety as during the last few months + have fallen to the lot of so many; and yet it seems hard to + say that soldiers, who have so much to endure at times for + the sake of others and of their common country, should be + denied the happiness of married life, because times of + danger will sometimes occur, and certain I am that the love + of a noble-hearted woman nerves one's arm to daring and to + honor. Happy, however, is the woman whose husband is not a + soldier.... Really the rumors which travel about are too + ludicrous, though hardly more so than those which take rise + and are actually believed in camp. + + The true account of the cavalry "demonstration" is this: on + the morning on which the city and palace were finally + evacuated (19th), the whole of the available cavalry (not + otherwise employed) moved out through the suburbs in the + direction of, though not on the road to, the Kootub, but + with strict orders not to go under fire! Well, we all + marched out to the top of the hill on which stands the + "Eedgah," and thence, from a safe and respectful distance, + overlooked the camp of the Bareilly and Nusseerabad force, + under "General" Bukt Khan, quondam Subadar of artillery. + While minutely examining the camp through my glass (I was + with Brigadier Hope Grant, to show the way), I perceived, by + unmistakable signs, that it was being evacuated. Shortly + after a loud explosion showed that they were blowing up + their ammunition previous to a flight; these signs were on + the moment confirmed by the arrival of my "Hurkaras" + (messengers), and I immediately got leave to go and tell the + General. I did so, galloping down along the front of the + city to see if that was quite clear. I then asked leave to + go down through the camp, and see what was really the state + of the case; and Macdowell and I started with seventy-five + men, and rode at a gallop right round the city to the Delhi + gate, clearing the roads of plunderers and + suspicious-looking objects as we went. We found the camp as + I had been told, empty, and the Delhi gate open; we were + there at 11 A. M. at latest, and it was not until 2 P. M. + that the order was given for the cavalry to move out, and + they were so long about it, that when at sunset Macdowell + and I were returning, (bringing away three guns left by the + enemy, and having made arrangements and collected camels for + bringing in the empty tents, &c.,) we met the advance-guard + coming slowly forward in grand array! We had been on to the + jail and old fort, two or three miles beyond Delhi, and + executed many a straggler. I brought in the mess plate of + the 60th Native Infantry, their standards, drums, and other + things. Macdowell and I had been for five hours inside the + Delhi gate, hunting about, before a guard was sent to take + charge of it. + + The next day I got permission, after much argument and + entreaty, to go and bring in the King, for which (though + negotiations for his life had been entertained) no provision + had been made and no steps taken, and his favorite wife + also, and the young imp (her son) whom he had destined to + succeed him on the throne. This was successfully + accomplished, at the expense of vast fatigue and no trifling + risk.[52] I then set to work to get hold of the villain + princes. It was with the greatest difficulty that the + General was persuaded to allow them to be interfered with, + till even poor Nicholson roused himself to urge that the + pursuit should be attempted. The General at length yielded a + reluctant consent, adding "but don't let me be bothered + with them." I assured him it was nothing but his own order + which "bothered" him with the King, as I would much rather + have brought him into Delhi dead than living. Glad to have + at length obtained even this consent, I prepared for my + dangerous expedition. Macdowell accompanied me, and taking + one hundred picked men, I started early for the tomb of the + Emperor Humayoon, where the villains had taken sanctuary. I + laid my plans so as to cut off access to the tomb or escape + from it, and then sent in one of the inferior scions of the + royal family (purchased for the purpose by the promise of + his life) and my one-eyed Moulvie Rujub Alee, to say that I + had come to seize the Shahzadahs for punishment, and + intended to do so, dead or alive. After two hours of wordy + strife and very anxious suspense, they appeared, and asked + if their lives had been promised by the Government, to which + I answered "most certainly not," and sent them away from the + tomb towards the city, under a guard. I then went with the + rest of the sowars to the tomb, and found it crowded with, I + should think, some 6,000 or 7,000 of the servants, + hangers-on, and scum of the palace and city, taking refuge + in the cloisters which lined the walls of the tomb. I saw at + a glance that there was nothing for it but determination and + a bold front, so I demanded in a voice of authority the + instant surrender of their arms, &c. They immediately + obeyed, with an alacrity I scarcely dared to hope for, and + in less than two hours they brought forth from innumerable + hiding-places some 500 swords, and more than that number of + fire-arms, besides horses, bullocks, and covered carts + called "Ruths," used by the women and eunuchs of the palace. + I then arranged the arms and animals in the centre, and left + an armed guard with them, while I went to look after my + prisoners, who, with their guard, had moved on towards + Delhi. I came up just in time, as a large mob had collected, + and were turning on the guard. I rode in among them at a + gallop, and in a few words I appealed to the crowd, saying + that these were the butchers who had murdered and brutally + used helpless women and children, and that the Government + had now sent their punishment: seizing a carabine from one + of my men, I deliberately shot them one after another. I + then ordered the bodies to be taken into the city, and + thrown out on the "Chiboutra," in front of the Kotwalie,[53] + where the blood of their innocent victims still could be + distinctly traced. The bodies remained before the Kotwalie + until this morning, when, for sanitary reasons, they were + removed. In twenty-four hours, therefore, I disposed of the + principal members of the house of Timur the Tartar. I am not + cruel, but I confess I did rejoice at the opportunity of + ridding the earth of these wretches. I intended to have had + them hung, but when it came to a question of "they" or "us," + I had no time for deliberation. + + _September 24th._--The picture drawn from the usually + mendacious reports at Simla, is not even founded on fact. + The women of the palace had all escaped before the troops + entered. + + The troops have behaved with singular moderation towards + women and children, considering their provocation. I do not + believe, and I have some means of knowing, that a single + woman or child has been purposely injured by our troops, and + the story on which your righteous indignation is grounded is + quite false; the troops have been demoralized by drink, but + nothing more. + + _September 25th._--... I miss Colonel Seaton terribly, we + have lived in the same tent for months, and had become + brothers in affection as well as in arms. I mourn deeply for + poor Nicholson; with the single exceptions of my + ever-revered Sir Henry Lawrence, and Colonel Mackeson, I + have never seen his equal in field or council; he was + preeminently our "best and bravest," and his loss is not to + be atoned for in these days. I cannot help being pleased + with the warm congratulations I receive on all sides for my + success in destroying the enemies of our race; the whole + nation will rejoice, but I am pretty sure that however glad + ---- will be at their destruction, he will take exception to + my having been the instrument, in God's hands, of their + punishment. That will not signify, however; I am too + conscious of the rectitude of my own motives to care what + the few may say while my own conscience and the voice of the + many pronounce me right. + +A fuller account of the capture of the King will be found in a letter +addressed to me shortly afterwards, and published by me in the +_Times_, which I now reprint:-- + + "I have before explained to you what your brother's (Captain + Hodson's) position officially was,--namely, that he was + appointed Assistant Quartermaster-General and Intelligence + Officer on the Commander-in-Chief's own Staff. His reports + were to be made to him direct, without the intervention of + the Quartermaster-General or any other person. + + "For this appointment, which was then a most responsible + one, as intelligence of the enemy's movements and intentions + was of the utmost importance, his long acquaintance with + Sikhs and Affghans, and his having been similarly employed + in the Punjaub war, had peculiarly fitted him. Of course, + there were always plenty of traitors in the enemy's camp + ready to sell their own fathers for gain, or to avoid + punishment, and he was invested with full power to promise + reward or punishment, in proportion to the deserts of those + who assisted him. + + "On our taking possession of the city gate, reports came in + that thousands of the enemy were evacuating the city by the + other gates, and that the King also had left his palace. We + fought our way inch by inch to the palace walls, and then + found truly enough that its vast arena was void. The very + day after we took possession of the palace, (the 20th,) + Captain Hodson received information that the King and his + family had gone with a large force out of the Ajmere Gate to + the Kootub. He immediately reported this to the General + commanding, and asked whether he did not intend to send a + detachment in pursuit, as with the King at liberty and + heading so large a force, our victory was next to useless, + and we might be besieged instead of besiegers. General + Wilson replied that he could not spare a single European. He + then volunteered to lead a party of the Irregulars, but this + offer was also refused, though backed up by Neville + Chamberlain. + + "During this time messengers were coming in constantly, and + among the rest one from Zeenat Mahal, (the favorite Begum,) + with an offer to use her influence with the King to + surrender on certain conditions. These conditions at first + were ludicrous enough--viz: that the King and the whole of + the males of his family should be restored to his palace and + honors; that not only should his pension be continued, but + the arrears since May be paid up, with several other equally + modest demands. I need not say these were treated with + contemptuous denial. Negotiations, however, were vigorously + carried on, and care was taken to spread reports of an + advance in force to the Kootub. Every report as it came in + was taken to General Wilson, who at last gave orders to + Captain Hodson to promise the King's life and freedom from + personal indignity, and make what other terms he could. + Captain Hodson then started with only fifty of his own men + for Humayoon's Tomb, three miles from the Kootub, where the + King had come during the day. The risk was such as no one + can judge of, who has not seen the road,[54] amid the old + ruins scattered about of what was once the real city of + Delhi. + + "He concealed himself and men in some old buildings close by + the gateway of the Tomb, and sent in his two emissaries to + Zeenat Mahal with the _ultimatum_,--the King's life and that + of her son and father (the latter has since died). After two + hours passed by Captain Hodson in most trying suspense, such + as (he says) he never spent before, while waiting the + decision, his emissaries (one an old favorite of poor Sir + Henry Lawrence,) came out with the last offer--that the King + would deliver himself up to Captain Hodson only, and on + condition that he repeated with his own lips the promise of + the Government for his safety. + + "Captain Hodson then went out into the middle of the road in + front of the gateway, and said that he was ready to receive + his captives and renew the promise. + + "You may picture to yourself the scene before that + magnificent gateway, with the milk-white domes of the Tomb + towering up from within, one white man among a host of + natives, yet determined to secure his prisoner or perish in + the attempt. + + "Soon a procession began to come slowly out, first Zeenat + Mahal, in one of the close native conveyances used for + women. Her name was announced as she passed by the Moulvie. + Then came the King in a palkee, on which Captain Hodson rode + forward and demanded his arms. Before giving them up, the + King asked whether he was 'Hodson Bahadoor,' and if he would + repeat the promise made by the herald? Captain Hodson + answered that he would, and repeated that the Government had + been graciously pleased to promise him his life, and that of + Zeenat Mahal's son, on condition of his yielding himself + prisoner quietly, adding very emphatically, that if any + attempt was made at a rescue he would shoot the King down on + the spot like a dog. The old man then gave up his arms, + which Captain Hodson handed to his orderly, still keeping + his own sword drawn in his hand. The same ceremony was then + gone through with the boy (Jumma Bukh); and the march + towards the city began, the longest five miles, as Captain + Hodson said, that he ever rode, for of course the palkees + only went at a foot pace, with his handful of men around + them, followed by thousands, any one of whom could have shot + him down in a moment. His orderly told me that it was + wonderful to see the influence which his calm and undaunted + look had on the crowd. They seemed perfectly paralyzed at + the fact of one white man (for they thought nothing of his + fifty black sowars) carrying off their King alone. Gradually + as they approached the city the crowd slunk away, and very + few followed up to the Lahore gate. Then Captain Hodson rode + on a few paces and ordered the gate to be opened. The + officer on duty asked simply as he passed what he had got in + his palkees. 'Only the King of Delhi,' was the answer, on + which the officer's enthusiastic exclamation was more + emphatic than becomes ears polite. The guard were for + turning out to greet him with a cheer, and could only be + repressed, on being told that the King would take the honor + to himself. They passed up that magnificent deserted street + to the palace gate, where Capt. Hodson met the civil officer + (Mr. Saunders), and formally delivered over his Royal + prisoners to him. His remark was amusing, 'By Jove! Hodson, + they ought to make you Commander-in-Chief for this.' + + "On proceeding to the General's quarters to report his + successful return, and hand over the Royal arms, he was + received with the characteristic speech, 'Well, I'm glad you + have got him, but I never expected to see either him or you + again!' while the other officers in the room were loud in + their congratulations and applause. He was requested to + select for himself from the Royal arms what he chose, and + has therefore two magnificent swords, one with the name of + 'Nadir Shah,' and the other the seal of Jehan Gire engraved + upon it, which he intends to present to the Queen. + + "On the following day, as you already know, he captured + three of the Princes; but of this more hereafter. I am + anxious now that you should fully understand that your + brother was bound by orders from the General to spare the + King's life, much against his own will; that the capture + alone was on his own risk and responsibility, and not the + pledge."[55] + +I am allowed to insert here a most graphic letter, written by Lieut. +Macdowell, 2d in command of Hodson's Horse:-- + + "On the morning of the 19th we formed up and saw the + townspeople coming in thousands out of the Delhi gate (still + in the enemy's possession), and passing through their camp, + taking the high road to the Kootub. Too far off to do any + damage, we waited (the ground a mass of hard rocks, + impracticable for cavalry) till 9 A. M., and then retired. + Hodson, my commanding officer, then went to the General, and + at ten I received a note from him, 'Gallop down with fifty + men and meet me at the Cashmere gate as sharp as possible.' + Down I went, and he told me he had volunteered to ride + through the enemy's camp and reconnoitre; that no one knew + if they were there in force or not, and he asked me if I + would accompany him. Of course I was only too glad, and off + we went. They fired at us as we approached, from gardens + and places all round, but I imagine they thought more men + were coming, and bolted, we (only fifty of us) cutting up + all their stragglers to the tune of some fifty or sixty. As + we came back we intercepted a whole lot of townspeople + escaping. Well, I must not linger on this. Having done our + work (and it wasn't a bad thing to do, to gallop through + their camp with fifty men, not knowing whether they were + there or not), we cautiously approached the Delhi gate. It + was open, but all was silent. Our troops had not as yet + ventured so far. Afar off we heard the firing in the city in + other quarters; leaving our men outside, with four Sowars + behind us with cocked carabines, we rode in, holding our + revolvers ready for a row. Not a soul was there; all still + as death. I looked round, and close to where I was sitting + were two bottles of beer amidst a heap of plate, silver, + clothes, &c. Perhaps I didn't jump off sharp! It was all + right; real beer! madam; we uncorked, and drank the Queen's + health at once. After a little time, as the firing + approached, and we found all was right, we rode away, and + reported what we had done. The General was very pleased. + + "And now for my great adventure. On the 20th the King gave + himself up, and was lodged securely in Delhi under a guard. + On this day all had evacuated the place, of which we were + complete masters. On the 21st a note from Hodson, 'Come + sharp, bring one hundred men.' Off I went, time 6 o'clock A. + M. To explain why he wrote to me, I must tell you that + although he commanded the regiment, he was also the head of + the Intelligence Department, and lived in the General's + quarters, while I lived with the regiment, commanding it in + his absence, as being second in command. Well, down I went. + He told me he had heard that the three Princes[56] (the + heads of the rebellion and sons of the King) were in a tomb + six miles off, and he intended going to bring them, and + offered me the chance of accompanying him. Wasn't it + handsome on his part! Of course I went; we started at about + eight o'clock, and proceeded slowly towards the tomb. It is + called Humayoon's Tomb, and is an immense building. In it + were the princes and about 3,000 Mussulman followers. In the + suburb close by about 3,000 more, all armed, so it was + rather a ticklish bit of work. We halted half a mile from + the place, and sent in to say the princes must give + themselves up unconditionally, or take the consequences. A + long half hour elapsed, when a messenger came out to say the + princes wished to know if their lives would be promised + them, if they came out. 'Unconditional surrender,' was the + answer. Again we waited. It was a most anxious time. We + dared not take them by force, or all would have been lost, + and we doubted their coming. We heard the shouts of the + fanatics (as we found out afterwards) begging the princes to + lead them on against us. And we had only one hundred men, + and were six miles from Delhi. At length, I suppose, + imagining that sooner or later they must be taken, they + resolved to give themselves up unconditionally, fancying, I + suppose, as we had spared the King, we would spare them. So + the messenger was sent to say they were coming. We sent ten + men to meet them, and by Hodson's order I drew the troop up + across the road, ready to receive them, and shoot them at + once if there was any attempt at a rescue. Soon they + appeared in a small 'Ruth' or Hindostanee cart drawn by + bullocks, five troopers on each side. Behind them thronged + about 2,000 or 3,000 (I am not exaggerating) Mussulmans. We + met them, and at once Hodson and I rode up, leaving the men + a little in the rear. They bowed as we came up, and Hodson, + bowing, ordered the driver to move on. This was the minute. + The crowd behind made a movement. Hodson waved them back; I + beckoned to the troop, which came up, and in an instant + formed them up between the crowd and the cart. By Hodson's + order I advanced at a walk on the people, who fell back + sullenly and slowly at our approach. It was touch and go. + Meanwhile Hodson galloped back, and told the sowars (10) to + hurry the princes on along the road, while we showed a front + and kept back the mob. They retired on Humayoon's Tomb, and + step by step we followed them. Inside they went up the + steps, and formed up in the immense garden inside. The + entrance to this was through an arch, up steps. Leaving the + men outside, Hodson and myself (I stuck to him throughout), + with four men, rode up the steps into the arch,[57] when he + called out to them to lay down their arms. There was a + murmur. He reiterated the command, and (God knows why, I + never can understand it) they commenced doing so. Now you + see we didn't want their arms, and under ordinary + circumstances would not have risked our lives in so rash a + way, but what we wanted was to gain time to get the princes + away, for we could have done nothing, had they attacked us, + but cut our way back, and very little chance of doing even + this successfully. Well, there we stayed for two hours, + collecting their arms, and I assure you I thought every + moment they would rush upon us. I said nothing, but smoked + all the time, to show I was unconcerned; but at last, when + it was all done, and all the arms collected, put in a cart, + and started, Hodson turned to me and said, 'We'll go, now.' + Very slowly we mounted, formed up the troop, and cautiously + departed, followed by the crowd. We rode along quietly. You + will say, why did we not charge them? I merely say, we were + one hundred men, and they were fully 6,000. I am not + exaggerating; the official reports will show you it is all + true. As we got about a mile off, Hodson turned to me and + said, 'Well, Mac, we've got them at last;' and we both gave + a sigh of relief. Never in my life, under the heaviest fire, + have I been in such imminent danger. Everybody says it is + the most dashing and daring thing that has been done for + years (not on my part, for I merely obeyed orders, but on + Hodson's, who planned and carried it out). Well, I must + finish my story. We came up to the princes, now about five + miles from where we had taken them, and close to Delhi. The + increasing crowd pressed close on the horses of the sowars, + and assumed every moment a more hostile appearance. 'What + shall we do with them?' said Hodson to me. 'I think we had + better shoot them here; we shall never get them in.' + + "We had identified them by means of a nephew of the King's + whom we had with us, and who turned King's evidence. + Besides, they acknowledged themselves to be the men. Their + names were Mirza Mogul, the King's nephew and head of the + whole business; Mirza Kishere Sultamet, who was also one of + the principal rebels, and had made himself notorious by + murdering women and children; and Abu Bukt, the + commander-in-chief nominally, and heir-apparent to the + throne. This was the young fiend who had stripped our women + in the open street, and cutting off little children's arms + and legs, poured the blood into their mothers' mouths; this + is literally the case. There was no time to be lost; we + halted the troop, put five troopers across the road behind + and in front. Hodson ordered the Princes to strip and get + again into the cart; he then shot them with his own hand. So + ended the career of the chiefs of the revolt, and of the + greatest villains that ever shamed humanity. Before they + were shot, Hodson addressed our men, explaining who they + were, and why they were to suffer death; the effect was + marvellous, the Mussulmans seemed struck with a wholesome + idea of retribution, and the Sikhs shouted with delight, + while the mass moved off slowly and silently. One of the + sowars pointed out to me a man running rapidly across a + piece of cultivated ground, with arms gleaming in the + sunlight. I and the sowar rode after him, when I discovered + it was the King's favorite eunuch, of whose atrocities we + had heard so much. The sowar cut him down instantly, and we + returned, well satisfied that we had rid the world of such a + monster. It was now four o'clock; Hodson rode into the city + with the cart containing the bodies, and had them placed in + the most public street, where all might see them. Side by + side they lay where, four months before, on the same spot, + they had outraged and murdered our women. I went quietly + home with the troop, nearly dead, having had nothing (except + water) since six o'clock the previous night. I have not time + to write you of my subsequent adventures, but will next + mail. We have gained a great deal of [Greek: kudos] for this + business, and I hear are to be rewarded in some way or + other." + +Some months later my brother wrote with reference to this matter:-- + + CAMP, ON THE LEFT BANK OF THE GANGES, OPPOSITE CAWNPORE, + _Feb. 12th, 1858_. + + ... I see that many people suppose that I had promised the + old King his life _after_ he was caught. Pray contradict + this. The promise was given two days before, to induce him + to leave the rebel troops and return to the near + neighborhood of Delhi within reach. General Wilson refused + to send troops in pursuit of him, and to avoid greater + calamities I then, and not till then, asked and obtained + permission to offer him his wretched life, on the ground, + and solely on the ground, that there was no other way of + getting him into our possession. The people were gathering + round him. His name would have been a tocsin which would + have raised the whole of Hindostan, and the Rajahs and + Rajpootana in the south would have been forced to have + joined in the rising, which would then have been universal. + Was it not better to get rid of all this, and secure + ourselves from further mischief at the simple cost of + sparing the life of an old man of ninety? It must be + remembered, too, that we had no troops left to meet any + further augmentation of our enemies. A small force under + Colonel Greathed was with difficulty found, some days later, + to go towards Agra; and it was clear to me then (as + experience has since shown) that we had still months to wait + for reinforcements from home. Here is February; the King + was caught in September, and yet up to this present day the + Commander-in-Chief has not been able to send a single + soldier of all that have arrived from England up as far as + Delhi; and all Rohilcund, all Oude, a great part of Central + India, all Bundelcund, and most of Behar, are still in the + hands of the enemy. Would it have been wise to have given, + in addition to all this, so strong an incentive to + combination, to the warlike men of the northwest, as they + would have had in the person of a sacred and "heaven-born" + monarch, dethroned, wandering, and homeless, but backed by a + whole army in rebellion? I am blamed for it now; but knowing + that there was no other way of getting him into our power, I + am quite content to take the obloquy. It will hereafter be + admitted that one of the greatest blows was struck at the + root of the rebellion when the old King was led a captive + into his own palace on the 21st of September, 1857.[58] + Strange, that some of those who are loudest against me for + sparing the King, are also crying out at my destroying his + sons. "Quousque tandem?" I may well exclaim. But in point of + fact, I am quite indifferent to clamor either way. I made up + my mind at the time to be abused. I was convinced I was + right, and when I prepared to run the great physical risk of + the attempt, I was equally game for the moral risk of praise + or blame. These have not been, and are not times when a man + who would serve his country dare hesitate as to the + personal consequences to himself of what he thinks his duty. + +I am indebted to Sir T. Seaton for an answer to inquiries addressed to +my brother, which never reached him:-- + + "I see you are anxious to clear up the two 'vexed + questions:'--Why did he guarantee the life of the King? Why + did he strip the princes? He guaranteed the life of the + King, because he was ordered to do so by General Wilson; and + I think that under the circumstances it was wise and prudent + (though highly distasteful to the General), for it enabled + us to get hold of the nominal head of the great rebellion, + and to secure the capture of those greater scoundrels, the + princes. No one ever thought out here of asking why he + stripped the princes, or rather why he made them take off + their upper garments. It certainly was not as the French + stupidly assert, 'pour ne pas gater le butin,' for if the + upper corresponded with the nether clothes in which the + bodies were laid out, they would have been dear at a + shilling the lot. He made them strip off their upper + garments, to render their death and subsequent exposure at + the Kotwalla more impressive and terrible. Some people ask, + 'Why did he shoot them himself?' To this I will reply by + another question, 'What would have been the effect on that + vast crowd of a single moment's hesitation or appearance of + hesitation?'" + +Before this chapter closes, I will insert one or two anecdotes and +descriptions of my brother, from letters written at this time by +officers before Delhi, which have been kindly placed at my disposal. +They will help to fill up the picture of him, which may be drawn from +his own diary. + + * * * * * + +One says:-- + + "The way Hodson used to work was quite miraculous. He was a + slighter man and lighter weight than I am. Then he had that + most valuable gift, of being able to get refreshing sleep on + horseback. I have been out with him all night following and + watching the enemy, when he has gone off dead asleep, waking + up after an hour as fresh as a lark; whereas, if I went to + sleep in the saddle, the odds were I fell off on my nose. + + "He was the very perfection of a 'free-lance,' and such an + Intelligence Officer! He used to know what the rebels had + for dinner in Delhi. + + "In a fight he was glorious. If there was only a good hard + skrimmage he was as happy as a king. A beautiful swordsman, + he never failed to kill his man; and the way he used to play + with the most brave and furious of these rebels was perfect. + I fancy I see him now, smiling, laughing, parrying most + fearful blows, as calmly as if he were brushing off flies, + calling out all the time, 'Why, try again, now,' 'What's + that?' 'Do you call yourself a swordsman?' &c. + + "The way that in a pursuit he used to manage his hog-spear + was miraculous. It always seemed to me that he bore a + charmed life, and so the enemy thought. + + "His judgment was as great as his courage, and the heavier + the fire or the greater the difficulty, the more calm and + reflecting he became." + +Another (Sir T. Seaton):-- + + "You know that, during the whole of the terrible siege of + Delhi, we lived together in the same tent, and, excepting + while on duty, we were never separate. It was there I saw, + in all their splendor, his noble soldierly qualities; never + fatigued, never downcast, always cool and calm, with a + cheerful countenance and a word of encouragement for every + one. + + "I used often to say, 'Here, Hodson, is somebody else coming + for comfort.' + + "It was there I learned the depth and intensity of his + affection for his wife; like the man, it was out of the + common. You know how he nursed me when I was wounded. I am + indebted for my rapid recovery, in a very great measure, to + his care and forethought; and it was whilst lying helpless + and feeble I saw that the brave and stern soldier had also + the tenderness of a woman in his noble heart. His constant + care was to prevent Mrs. Hodson from feeling any anxiety + that he could save her; so that, whenever he went out on any + expedition that would detain him beyond twenty-four hours, + he invariably asked me, and I used to make it my duty, to + write to Mrs. Hodson daily, accounting for his absence and + giving such details as I could of his doings. + + "He was ever ready to carry out my wishes and aid me with + his best knowledge, skill, and courage. He supported me with + the devotion of a brother; never, never shall I see his like + again." + +Another says:-- + + "He has wonderful tact in getting information out of the + natives, and divining the movements of the enemy. He is + scarcely out of the saddle day or night, for not only has he + to lead his regiment and keep the country clear, but being + Intelligence Officer, he is always on the move to gain news + of the progress of affairs, and acts and intentions of the + enemy. + + "Even when he might take rest he will not, but will go and + help work at the batteries, and expose himself constantly, + in order to relieve some fainting gunner or wounded man." + +I have this anecdote from another:-- + + "In the camp at Delhi, when the incessant fatigue to which + the soldiers were exposed forbade the strict enforcement of + the continual salute, it was remarked that Hodson never + passed down the lines without every man rendering to him + that mark of respect. The soldiers loved him as their own. + 'There goes that 'ere Hodson,' said a drunken soldier as he + cantered down the lines; 'he's sure to be in everything; + he'll get shot, I know he will, and I'd a deal rather be + shot myself; we can't do without him.'" + +I venture to quote from Mr. H. Greathed's Letters (published by his +widow) some further notices of my brother:-- + + "Hodson keeps an Argus eye on the rear and left flank, and + is always ready for an adventurous ride. I am not surprised + at Gough liking him; he has a rare gift of brains as well as + of pluck! The uniform of his men, 'khakee' tunics, with a + scarlet sash and turban, is very picturesque. + + "Hodson is certainly the most wide-awake soldier in camp. + + "A charge of cavalry was turned by a few musket shots from a + party under Hodson, who always turns up in moments of + difficulty." + +Again, speaking of him while absent at Rohtuck, August 19th:-- + + "We have no further intelligence from Hodson. He is employed + on just the wild work he likes, and will be loth to return. + The public still amuses itself with giving his regiment new + names, 'the Aloobokharas' and Ring-tailed Roarers' are the + last I have heard of. + + ... "There was some alarm yesterday about Hodson's safety. I + cannot say I shared the feeling, I have such confidence in + his audacity and resource. + + ... "Hodson is quite safe, he will now return to camp, and + after being in for an hour, he will be seen looking as + fresh, clean-shaved, and spruce, as if he had never left + it." + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[41] _Extract from Letter of_ MAJOR-GENERAL WILSON. + +"The Major-General commanding the force having received from Lieut. +Hodson a report of his proceedings and operations from the 14th, when +he left camp, till his return on the 24th, has much pleasure in +expressing to that officer his thanks for the able manner in which he +carried out the instructions given him. The Major-General's thanks are +also due to the European and native officers and men composing the +detachment, for their steady and gallant behavior throughout the +operations, particularly on the 17th and 18th inst., at Rohtuck, when +they charged and dispersed large parties of horse and foot." + +[42] Referring to his charge of the Intelligence Department. + +[43] An artillery officer told me of my brother, that even when he +might have taken rest he would not; but instead, would go and help +work at the batteries, and exposed himself constantly in order to +relieve some fainting gunner or wounded man.--_Ed._ + +[44] The story referred to was told by an officer: visiting the sick +in hospital in the fort at Agra, he asked a man, severely wounded, +whether he could do anything for him. "Oh yes, sir," was the answer, +"if you would be so good as to read us anything in the papers about +that Captain Hodson; he's always doing something to make us proud of +our country, and of belonging to the same service as that noble +fellow; it makes one forget the pain." + +[45] The following account of the assault, by an officer of the 1st +European Bengal Fusileers, will supply many particulars of interest:-- + +"At 2 o'clock A. M. we formed in front of our camp 250 strong, and +marched down to Ludlow Castle, which we reached about daybreak. There +we paused some time to receive our ladders, and advanced at sunrise to +the assault. Every man felt this day would repay him for four months +of hard knocks, and that we should give the murderous ruffians a +wholesome lesson, and teach them that a hand-to-hand struggle with +armed men was quite another affair to one with defenceless women and +children. We cross the glacis, the fire is hot; descend and reascend +the ditch, mount the berme and escalade. Hark! what noise is that? not +the Sepoy's war-cry 'Bum, Bum ram, ram, Oh King' for which you are +intently listening; but the wild, thrilling cheer of the British, +which announces to friend and foe that the ramparts are won. We +descend and meet in the Cashmere Bastion, and-are astonished at our +rapid success. A general shaking of hands takes place. 'Oh, General, +is that you?' 'Paddy, my boy, how are you?' these and such like +greetings take place, whilst the different regiments form. We moved +out rapidly and stormed the church and adjacent buildings, and killed +a number of Sepoys as they retreated from the Water Bastion. After +this, we proceeded round the ramparts to our right without very much +opposition, and halted at the Cabul Gate for some time; again the word +was forward, and in leading on the men, my glorious friend George +Jacob was 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 +sense of duty was superior to bodily pain, and he refused their aid, +desiring them to go on and take the guns. Twice did the enemy repulse +us from this strong position, our third attempt was successful, but +two guns hardly repaid us for our loss. 'Sergeant Jordan,' I said, +'spike that gun on the rampart.' 'I can't, sir, I've no spikes.' 'Then +take a ramrod, break it in, and throw it down to me;' and I spiked the +other gun in the same way. The enemy eventually retook this position, +but found only useless guns. A little in advance, the enemy had a gun +and bullet-proof breastwork, behind which they fired on us with +impunity. This was on the rampart, and we were in a narrow lane about +twelve feet below, where not more than four men could go abreast. In +one charge, Nicholson, our best and bravest, was struck down. Speke, +gentle everywhere but in the field, was mortally wounded, and I, in +re-forming the regiment for a renewed attempt, was shot through the +right shoulder, which will prevent my being bumptious for some time; +out of our small party, seven officers and many, very many men had +fallen. It was felt to be madness to continue the struggle where the +enemy had all the advantage, and the troops were withdrawn to the +Cabul Gate, but the British and Sikh soldiers had done their work, +they had opened the road for our unrivalled artillery to bring in +their guns, and in six days they cleared the city with very trifling +loss on our side." + +[46] 66 officers, 1,104 men, was the official return. + +[47] On the 16th. + +[48] One of the officers present on this occasion, speaking of it in a +letter to his wife, says, "I found time, however, for admiration of +Hodson, who sat like a man carved in stone, and as calm and apparently +as unconcerned as the sentries at the Horse Guards, and only by his +eyes and his ready hand, whenever occasion offered, could you have +told that he was in deadly peril, and the balls flying amongst us as +thick as hail." + +[49] _Extract from the Despatch of_ BRIGADIER HOPE GRANT, _Commanding +Cavalry Division_. + + "HEAD-QUARTERS, DELHI, _Sept. 17th, 1857_. + + "The behavior of the Native Cavalry was also admirable. + Nothing could be steadier, nothing more soldierlike, than + their bearing. Lieutenant Hodson commanded a corps raised by + himself, and he is a first-rate officer, brave, determined, + and clear-headed." + +[50] Hervey H. Greathed, Commissioner and Political Agent. + +[51] _Extract from the Despatches of_ GENERAL WILSON _on the Fall of +Delhi_. + + "DELHI, _Sept. 22d, 1857_. + + "I beg also to bring very favorably to notice the officers + of the Quartermaster-General's Department, ... and Captain + Hodson, who has performed such good and gallant service with + his newly raised regiment of Irregular Horse, and at the + same time conducted the duties of the Intelligence + Department, under the orders of the Quartermaster-General, + with rare ability and success." + +[52] Vide p. 342 for more detailed account. + +[53] It was on this spot that the head of Gooroo Teg Bahadoor had been +exposed by order of Aurungzebe, the Great Mogul, nearly 200 years +before. The Sikhs considered that in attacking Delhi they were "paying +off an old score." A prophecy had long been current among them, that +by the help of the white man they should reconquer Delhi. After this +they looked on Captain Hodson as the "avenger of their martyred +Gooroo," and were even more ready than before to follow him anywhere. + +[54] "At a short distance, about a mile before reaching the tomb, the +road passes under the Old Fort,--a strong tower, commanding the road +on two sides, in which the King and his party first took refuge on +their escape from Delhi. This was filled with his adherents, and it +was a moment of no small danger to Hodson and his little troop, when +passing under it on his way out to the tomb, any stray shot from the +walls might have laid him low."--_Note by a Friend._ + +[55] All the notice taken of this remarkable exploit in Major-General +Wilson's despatch of September 22d, was,-- + +"The King, who accompanied the troops for some short distance last +night, gave himself up to a party of Irregular Cavalry whom I sent out +in the direction of the fugitives, and he is now a prisoner under a +guard of European soldiers." + +We may well remark on this _anonymous_ version, "id maxime +formidolosum, privati hominis nomen supra principis attolli."--_Ed._ + +[56] Called Shahzadahs. + +[57] "When within the inclosure, Hodson observed the balcony resting +on the Archway of Ingress filled with the followers of the royal +party, many with arms. Facing it, he looked up calmly, pointed his +carabine, and said, 'The first man that moves is a dead man.' The +effect was instantaneous. Not a hand was raised, and by the glance of +that eye, and effect of that voice, every disposition to interfere by +word or deed was quelled."--_Note by a friend, who afterwards visited +Humayoon's Tomb in company with Lieut. Macdowell._ + +[58] _From_ MR. MONTGOMERY, _now Chief Commissioner of Oude_. + + "_Sept. 29th._ + + "MY DEAR HODSON,--All honor to you (and to your 'Horse') for + _catching_ the King and slaying his sons. I hope you will + bag many more! In haste, + + "Ever yours, + "R. MONTGOMERY." + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + + OPERATIONS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF DELHI.--SHOWER'S + COLUMN.--SEATON'S + COLUMN.--GUNGEREE.--PUTIALEE.--MYNPOOREE.--RIDE TO + COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF'S CAMP.--JUNCTION OF FORCES.--SHUMSHABAD. + + + CAMP, DELHI, _Sept. 26th_. + + My letters are of necessity short and newsless, for I am + scarcely ever able to sit down to write what can be properly + called a letter. Anything so mismanaged as the prize + property has been, or so wasted, I never saw; so much so, + that I look upon the appointment of prize agents at all as a + simple injustice to the army, _i. e._, to the officers. + Colonel Seaton has given up the prize agency in disgust, and + I refused it altogether; he is taking you a real trophy from + Delhi, no less than the turquoise armlet and signet rings of + the rascally princes whom I shot; not actually worth twenty + shillings, but I know they will be prized by you and the + dear ones at home. Tombs declares I shall get a C. B. for + capturing the King, &c., and, between ourselves, I _ought_ + to have anything they can give me, for it was a fearful + risk, and, I must say, the "General's" share in it was about + as meritorious as his recognition of the service was + gracious! but you will see _he_ will get the reward; but + never mind, I did my duty, perhaps something more, and have + got the reward of my own conscience, and certainly the voice + of the army, as the hero of this "crowning mercy," as they + call it. + + We march to-morrow instead of on the 20th, as we ought to + have done, to clear out some of the hordes at Humayoon's + Tomb. I disarmed them when I took the princes, and collected + all the arms, &c., into one spot, leaving as large a guard + as I could spare, and yet the "General" has actually never + sent until to-day to relieve the one or secure the other, + and now only at my urgent representation! We shall be back + from our expedition in four or five days. Colonel Showers + commands. + + CAMP, HUMAYOON'S TOMB, _Sept. 28th_.--I have been out all + day and at work, varied by divers summonses from the + Brigadier, and by such _very_ amusing duties as packing off + the royal family's lower branches into Delhi. + + Poor Greathed! he was, indeed, a loss to every one! With the + column sent out here (to complete with 1,500 men the work of + which I had overcome all the difficulties with 100), a young + civilian was sent to carry on political duties, and take + charge of the different members and hangers-on of the Royal + family. In an hour I had got possession of the persons of + seven of the remaining sons and grandsons of the King who + were "wanted;" they were made over, according to orders, to + this civilian, and, two hours afterwards, all had escaped! + In consequence of this we are halted here, and parties sent + out in all directions to recapture the fugitives. + + I shall try to get down in the Oudh direction to join Napier + and his chief. + + I confess I am much gratified by the congratulations I + receive on all sides regarding the capture of the King and + the retribution on the Shahzadahs; but I expect no reward, + perhaps not even thanks. The Government will be delighted at + the fact, but will perhaps pretend a reluctance to the + judgment having been effected, which they certainly do not + feel, and will probably throw all the _onus_ on me. To tell + the truth (in spite of all the praises and prophecies of the + army), I expect nothing by this campaign but my brevet + majority, and that was due to me for the Punjaub war. + + The execution of the princes could be hardly called one of + "unresisting" enemies, since they were surrounded by an + armed host, to whom we should have been most unquestionably + sacrificed if I had hesitated for an instant. It was _they_ + or _we_, and I recommend those who might cavil at my choice + to go and catch the next rebels themselves! The King was + very old and infirm, and had long been a mere tool, a name + in the hands of the Shahzadahs, Mirza Mogul in particular; + moreover, the orders I received were such that I did not + dare to act on the dictates of my own judgment to the extent + of killing him when he had given himself up; but had he + attempted either a flight or a rescue, I should have shot + him down like a dog; as it is, he is the lion without his + claws, now his villanous heir-apparent is disposed of. I + must be prepared to have all kinds of bad motives attributed + to me, for no man ever yet went out of the beaten track + without being wondered at and abused; and so marked a + success will make me more enemies than friends, so be + prepared for abuse rather than reward; for myself I do not + care, and I am proud to say that those whose opinion I value + most highly think I did well and boldly. + + CAMP NEAR THE KOOTUB, _Sept. 29th_.--We got here so late + to-day, that, before our tents were pitched and washing and + breakfast over, the time to close our dak has arrived. + Thanks for letters, which are balm to my wounded spirit, + vexed as I am to find that even here, in the field, working + as I have done, and successful as I have been, I am not safe + from the malignant influence of ---- and his myrmidons. From + the day that he put ---- into power at Delhi, I experienced + a difficulty never found before in carrying on my duties, + and a system of backbiting and insinuation which could never + have existed, if it had not been encouraged, if not + engendered, by listening to. This meanness _et id genus + omne_ has commenced, and has decided me on the course you + have so long urged, namely, to give up the Intelligence + Department. + + I have done quite enough to establish my name in the army, + and as much as one man can do. We return to Delhi, I hope, + to-morrow, for we have done little enough by leaving it. The + other column, which went out across the Jumna, has had an + engagement with the enemy at Bolundshur, and thrashed them + soundly. This will open the road to Cawnpore. I shall write + to Napier to-day, to see if he can get my regiment sent + towards Oudh, or anywhere near him. + + CAMP, DELHI, _Oct. 1st_.--I was quite unable to write + yesterday, as we did not return here and get under cover + till after dark. I have to march again to-morrow towards + Rewarree with another column under Brigadier Showers, a most + gentlemanly person and gallant soldier, but sadly prolix and + formal in all his arrangements, thereby spinning out an + ordinary march to the dimensions of a day's journey. I am + sorry to say my unlucky ankle gives me more pain and + annoyance than before, and the doctors tell me it will never + be better until I give it _perfect rest_; and as this said + rest is perfectly impossible, I must bear it as patiently as + I can; but it is a sad drawback to my comfort and activity. + + You will rejoice with me that the detachment (of Hodson's + Horse) under Hugh Gough, who were sent with the column + across the Jumna, behaved extremely well in that action at + Bolundshur, and have been much praised. I am very glad, + indeed, of this; it is a great thing for a new regiment to + be successful at a cheap rate in its first few encounters; + it gives a _prestige_ which it is long in losing, and gives + the men confidence in themselves and their leaders. In this + affair our loss was trifling, though the cavalry were + principally employed. Poor Sarel, 9th Lancers, wounded + severely, I am sorry to say. I fancy _we_ go to Goorgaon and + Rewarree. Whether we see the enemy is doubtful, and it may + be merely a "military promenade," to settle the minds of the + inhabitants. I long to get down towards Outram, and Oudh, + and Napier. + + I am so glad you have written home, for I was out of the way + when the "Overland mail" left, and we none of us knew of its + being dispatched. It was a sad fatality which attended the + two last, both from and to England. England! How the writing + the very name even fills me with sweet home memories and + home longings; and though, during the last five years and + three quarters, my life has been more blessed than I ever + dreamed it possible that life could be, still there are + times, and they increase in frequency, when my heart yearns + for all its dear earlier ties. Yes, we must get home next + year, somehow, even if we have to live on barley bannocks. + + I, and most other people, considered that I and my party had + a right to all we found on the King and princes; but the + General, to whom I referred the question, thought + otherwise; so I gave up all except some of the personal arms + of the princes (those of the King were taken by the + General). The swords which I secured, thanks to the officers + assembled when the arms were made over, are historically + most valuable. One was worn by, and bears the name of, + Jehangire, and the other is stamped with the seal of Nadir + Shah! They are singular and interesting trophies, or rather + relics, of the house of Timour the Tartar. + + DELHI, _Oct. 2d_.--I have remained behind the force for a + day, in order to settle the business and pay up and + discharge my Intelligence Establishment. I am so busy that + my letter will of necessity be a short one. My having been + out in camp has prevented my getting at the people and + officers, who are all in the city and palace. We, that is, + the cavalry, artillery, and some infantry, are outside on + the glacis of the city, and much pleasanter it is, I think; + especially as I have good shelter under the roof of an old + mosque in a serai, where we can all put up together without + jostling. I feel quite a free man now. I have no work to do + but my regiment; though, truth to tell, _that_ is quite + enough for one man, even with so able and willing an + assistant as Macdowell. I do not reckon on much fighting + where we are going, and the weather is now getting very + tolerable. The country we are going into is also much + healthier than Delhi, and I expect much benefit from the + change of air and quiet marching. After our return I shall + get away, if but for a week; and then my anxiety is to join + Napier, wherever he may be. + + DELHI DISTRICT, _Oct. 3d_.--I was yesterday four coss from + Bullnagurh, and the Rajah actually came out in his carriage; + yet I had strict orders not to interfere with him, so the + force marched off in another direction this morning without + striking a blow, though the place was full of the Rajah's + armed retainers and fugitive Pandies from Delhi, and they + ought all to have been exterminated. The consequence is, he + will give us trouble hereafter.[59] To-day we struck off to + the right to this place (marching at Brigadier Showers's + favorite pace of six miles in five hours), and go on + to-morrow through Goorgaon to a place called Rewarree, where + one Toli Ram, a farmer of Government revenue in better + times, but who now "affectionates" independent authority, + has collected a force round his fortlet of some 4,000 to + 5,000 men, and shows fight; but again I opine we shall have + a tedious march for our pains. I grieve daily in all + bitterness for poor Nicholson's death. He was a man such as + one rarely sees; next to dear Sir Henry, our greatest loss. + + CAMP, GOORGAON, _Oct. 4th_.--Even the camp before Delhi (so + long our abode that I write it mechanically) was more + favorable for letter-writing than our present more peaceful + but more moving life. We started at three A. M. and arrived + here about nine. I had then to go through the village or + town with the Brigadier, and it was noon before we got a + tent pitched and breakfast ready; before I had finished I + was summoned by Showers to give him some information as to + some "Moofsids;" and now at two P. M., though I am still + unwashed and unshorn, I am ordered to be ready at three with + a party to proceed to punish some refractory villages a few + miles off. I shall be back, I trust, at dark, to dinner and + bed, for we march again at midnight. Tell ---- the swords I + have kept are beautiful, and historically most valuable. It + was like parting with my teeth to give up those to the + General; I should not have cared so much if he had done + anything towards the winning them. It will be something + hereafter to wear a sword taken from the last of the House + of Timour, which had been girt round the waists of the + greatest of his predecessors; if I ever part with it, it + shall be "in a present," as mine O. would say, to our good + Queen! She ought to give me her own Cross for it; and that's + a fact, though I say it! + + _Oct. 5th_, 3 A. M.--We got back last night at dark, from + our visit of retribution to Dholkote, having "polished off" + a goodly number of rebels from Irregular Cavalry Regiments, + and others who came out armed to the teeth, and making great + demonstration of attack, but turned of course when we + charged. Had we not absurdly been sent out in the afternoon, + instead of morning, so that it got too dark for work, we + should have cleared the place entirely. I had a most kind + letter of congratulation from ---- yesterday. He seems very + ill, poor fellow! How thankful I am that my health stands + work so well; not that I do not feel it; and it will _tell_ + more still some day. I question whether there is a single + one of us, however strong or unwounded, whose constitution + does not pay for the Siege of Delhi. The weather is getting + very pleasant, except in the middle of the day; but what a + contrast to the climate of the Punjaub! Many thanks to Lord + William for his offer of horses. I only wish I had the power + of using them, but there is no chance, I fear, of my getting + to Simla, though I may to Umbala. I hear General Wilson has + gone to Meerut, and General Penny come to Delhi in his + stead. + + PATHONDHEE, _Oct. 5th, noon_.--I add a few lines to my + letter of this morning to say that all is safe and well. + Nothing has occurred but a skirmish with our advanced guard + and some Sowars of Toli Ram's, who came, I honestly believe, + in all good faith, to bring an offer of submission; but the + business was bothered by mutual distrust, so they turned, + fired at our advance, and bolted at speed, my men after them + as hard as they could go. They brought back about a dozen + horses whose riders they had disposed of; very acceptable + they are too, for "mounting" my men is my greatest + difficulty. We have made a good bag of the Irregular Cavalry + rascals during the last few days,--among them a native + officer of the 9th Irregular Cavalry, who deserted at Delhi, + (selling Chamberlain a pretty considerable bargain too,) was + caught and shot. Seaton will rejoice at this. General Penny + reigns at Delhi. + + There is no chance of my regiment being stationary this cold + weather, I imagine, for the country is still in a very + unsettled state, and will be so for a long time to come. + + CAMP, REWARREE, _Oct. 6th_.--We arrived here, after a + tediously protracted march, at eleven this morning, only to + find my prediction verified, that the birds would be flown + and the nest empty. Mr. Toli Ram bolted yesterday, and left + only an empty fort and his guns behind him; in good hands it + would have given us considerable trouble, and he was + evidently a clever fellow, and had adroitly and promptly + contrived so as to be first in the field, should our power + have ceased. We found extensive preparations, and large + workshops for the completion of military equipments of all + kinds, guns, gun-carriages, gunpowder, accoutrements, and + material of all kinds. He had already done much, and in a + couple of months his position would have been so strong as + to have given him the command of all the surrounding + country, as well as the rich town and entrepot of Rewarree, + close to the walls of his fort. Had our empire fallen, he + would have mastered all the surrounding villages and + districts, and probably extended his power on all sides, and + founded a "Raj" like that of Puttiala or Jheend, to fall in + its turn before the (then) newly aroused energies of the + Sikhs. At the same time he was prepared, if we won the day, + to profess that he had done all this solely in our + interests, and to preserve the district _for us_ from the + Goojur population. This is now his line of defence. Showers + yesterday sent to tell him that if he would come in and give + himself up, as well as his guns and arms, he should be + treated on his merits. This he would not do, and has + eventually sealed his fate by bolting. The extent of his + warlike preparations is too obviously the result of his + really hostile, than of his professedly friendly, + intentions. I do not know where we go next; back to Delhi, I + trust, when I hope to find General Penny willing to forward + my wishes by sending me on to join the army. It will spoil + my new regiment to keep it on mere police duty. + + CAMP, REWARREE, _Oct. 7th_.--We have been all day in the + saddle, wandering about distant villages, but we did not see + an enemy, and the inhabitants seemed very glad to see us, + for the runaway rebels had plundered every place they passed + through. The whole body of horsemen who were here up to two + days before, fled in all directions when they heard of our + approach, (though their numbers were immense, they say 7,000 + to 8,000,) and now, ride where we will, in any direction for + fifteen miles round Rewarree, not an armed man is to be + seen. + + Only this morning we heard of the capture of Lucknow, dimmed + by the death of General Neill. Are all our victories to be + purchased at the costly price of her best and bravest? Even + I, loving my profession as I do, a "soldier to the + backbone," as Sir C. Napier used to say, sicken at the + remembrance of the good and brave and noble who have fallen. + Poor Neill! he is a loss indeed. I trust our dear friend has + escaped. I looked tremblingly through the list, and rejoiced + to find the name of Napier not there. And now for matters of + the lower (surely the lowest) world. I have drawn no pay + either for the A. Q. M. Generalship or my regiment, except + an advance of 500_l._ for current expenditure. I have as yet + been able to get no pay abstracts passed; and, indeed, such + is the confusion of all things, from the want of some + central authority, that no one knows where, or by whom, we + are to be paid; so I have to draw money for my men "on + account," to be settled hereafter; as yet, however, I take + care that it shall not exceed a third, or at utmost half + their pay, to be safely within the mark. Men and horses + cannot live on "nothing a day and find themselves," and any + regular office-work is utterly impossible while we are kept + so perpetually in the saddle. It is rather hard on a new + regiment, "raised on service,"--and a little hard on their + commandant too,--but all will come straight in the end, I + doubt not. I thought I mentioned that when we went to the + Kootub the first time with Colonel Showers, I secured the + rest of the King's sons and grandsons at Humayoon's Tomb; + but the whole were most discreditably allowed to escape by + the young civilian sent out with the force; or, as he says, + by the Brigadier; but it was his business, and not the + Brigadier's. I also found out a lot of silver and money, + worth, I should think, 20,000 or 30,000 rupees, and 20 or 30 + elephants; all which goes to swell the prize money. We ought + to have a good proportionate sum each, for there has been + an immense deal of property taken altogether, I should + think; but the want of care and management will lessen it + considerably. As a specimen,--when Seaton was prize agent, + (and they could not have found a better or more upright,) a + quantity of property of all descriptions was brought in and + put on the "chiboutra" in front of the house he was in. He + immediately sent to ask the General either to appoint a + place to stow it in, or for a guard to put over it. The + answer was in General Wilson's usually _brusque_ style. "He + had no guard to spare, and Colonel Seaton must secure the + property as he could." Colonel Seaton's reply was to resign + the prize agency. He could not well do otherwise after this + and other specimens. + + _Oct. 8th._--I go on an expedition early to-morrow morning + to some villages, and shall be too late back for writing. + + _Oct. 11th._--Only three words to say that I am safe and + well. I cannot ascertain whether we go back direct to Delhi, + or by Jhujjur, to annex the Nawab's country. Everything is + perfectly quiet here, and the weather is really cold in the + mornings: we shall all improve by the change, though fever + is very prevalent amongst the natives. The Europeans are + gaining strength daily. + + CAMP, JATOO SANA, _Oct. 13th_.--We shall be at Jhujjur, I + believe, in a couple of days; where part of General + Cortland's force and the Jummoo troops will meet us, and + they will, I fancy, be left in occupation, and we return to + Delhi, where I hear a force under General Penny is to be + formed to go towards Rohilcund. It is more than probable + that we shall accompany him. If I am allowed to go to a + station to _form_ my regiment, I shall certainly try for + Umbala. The bazaars at Meerut, Cawnpore, &c., are all + destroyed, and I could get nothing I wanted. Here I am + interrupted by an order to start on a "_dour_," which will + keep us out till midnight, if not longer. + + _Oct. 14th._--My expectations of yesterday were fulfilled, + and we did not return till midnight to dinner, having been + in the saddle, without a halt, since 3 P. M. Some rascals + had chosen to go and make free with the grain, &c., left + behind in Toli Ram's fort at Rampoora, outside Rewarree, as + soon as our last detachment had come away; so I was sent + back to disturb their operations. Unfortunately Colonel + Showers was too long in making up his mind to send us, and + though we marched at the rate of more than seven miles in an + hour, it was dark before we came up with the tail of the + party, just as they were decamping with their booty; so we + only accounted for about thirty or forty. I was very weary, + so stayed behind for a few hours' rest, the column having + marched at 2 A. M. to Nahur, on the road to Dadree, where we + are to be joined by a portion of General Cortland's force, + and the Dick Lawrence Invincibles from Rohtuck. We then move + on Jhujjur, but not the smallest prospect of + opposition,--all the masses of Raughur and other horsemen + melting away at our approach. I have written to Chamberlain, + as Adjutant-General, to get me a couple of months to + collect, complete, and clothe the regiment. At all events, + if we cannot be spared, I have begged that the whole + regiment may be kept together, and not scattered piecemeal + over the country, as it is now. + + CAMP, DADREE, _Oct. 16th_.--The Jhujjur Nawab has, or will + give himself up; so not a shot will be fired, for all the + swarms of Irregular Cavalry have dispersed to their homes, + or rather to the hills and jungles, for shelter and + security. Colonel Greathed's column has reached Agra, and + there had a fight; a regular surprise,--our people being + attacked while at breakfast! However, the enemy were + thoroughly thrashed eventually, and lost camp and guns. Poor + French, of the Lancers, is the only officer whose name I + have heard as killed. A report has reached me from Simla + that you have got some magnificent diamond rings, &c., taken + at Delhi. This is rather good, considering the only rings I + sent you were the princes', and not worth twenty rupees + altogether, and the only "diamonds" were in that little + broach I bought from a sowar more than a month before Delhi + was taken,--so much for the veracity of your good-natured + _friends_ at Simla! It is too rich. I like Macdowell + increasingly,--he is so thoroughly honest and gentlemanly, + and brave as a lion. In Wise, too, I am fortunate; and Wells + is a fat, good-tempered, willing-to-work school-boy. We do + very well indeed together, and I have profited by past + experience, (and perhaps the natural result of increased age + and knowledge of the world,) but things are very different + _now_ and _then_. + + We were waked up at midnight, and got to our camping ground + at 11 A. M., and there found neither tents nor breakfast. We + march on to Jhujjur early to-morrow. The Nawab has made his + submission, and we have nothing to do but receive it and + move on. + + CAMP, KUNOUND, _Oct. 19th_.--We left Dadree at 1 A. M. + yesterday, and marched ten miles to Jhujjur, found the force + dispersed and fled, and took possession of the (very nice) + fort, with heaps of guns and ammunition. My men were out + after the fugitives till half-past ten. At noon we marched + again (the 6th Dragoon Guards and my regiment), under + Colonel Custance, to Nahur, twenty-four miles, which we + reached at sunset. At 3 A. M. this morning we came on here, + seventeen miles, and took one of the strongest forts I have + seen, with fourteen guns, some very heavy ones, and five + lacs of rupees, which, alas! is to be considered Government, + not prize property. I was only out of my saddle for one hour + yesterday, from one in the morning till sunset, and then + only to get some cold food under a tree! But I am quite well + and strong, much better than I was at Delhi; and as Colonel + Custance and his officers are remarkably agreeable + gentlemanlike people, we have had the most really pleasant + days since leaving Delhi. The worst of this raid is that it + takes me from all chance of getting away for a few days + until our return. + + KUNOUND, _Oct. 20th_.--I have just had a very nice and + welcome letter from ----, dated Calcutta, 5th September. He + had had a long talk about me with Mr. Talbot, who told him + that General Anson's representations had done much good, and + that it was admitted on all hands that my exculpation _in + re_ the Guides was complete, and that no higher or more + flattering testimonials were ever seen; so that, please God, + I shall be righted at last; and _justice_ is all I want. I + leave those who injured me to the punishment of their own + conscience, and have no desire that their sins should be + visited upon them more than that. God saw that I was too + proud and happy at having gained the highest object of my + worldly ambition, and so chastened me, that now mere earthly + honors or success are becoming gradually of less importance + to me. To go home with an untarnished name, and to get the + repose both of body and mind which _home_ alone can give, is + now the climax of my desires. + + This is a very healthy country, but sandy, and, no doubt, at + times fearfully hot; even to-day there is a hot wind + blowing, and yet by midnight it will be freezing! + + CAMP, KUNOUND, _Oct. 21st_.--Another long day without a dak. + I have "betwitted" Captain Trench, who has charge of the + Post-office, for taking more care of himself than he does of + us; but of course he denies the soft impeachment _in toto_. + I begin to despair of getting back to Delhi, as we do not + march hence till the 23d, and even then it is uncertain in + what direction we go. _Au reste_, I am not sorry as it is, + for my men and horses were beginning to suffer. I had this + morning thirty-eight men and forty-three horses sick! If + Captain Fenwick is still at Simla, will you ask him if he + can get me one of the new pattern saddles he introduced into + the 9th Irregular Cavalry? I will gladly pay the cost and + carriage, and thank him into the bargain. Saddles are my + greatest difficulty in getting my regiment into order. I am + doing tolerably in the way of horses, and gradually + remounting the men, who came down badly horsed, with + captured cattle. The swords also are better than they were, + from the same source. My ankle gives me so much pain that I + have been forced to take to a small pony to ride even about + camp, so as to avoid walking even for fifty yards. + + _Oct. 22d._--We march to-night towards Rewarree, and shall + get there on the 24th; from thence a part goes to Goorgaon, + and waits the arrival of the larger portion of the troops + which are to go into the Mewattee country, and punish some + rascals who have plundered the large town of Sonah. The + Brigadier is planning a series of manoeuvres, by which he + intends to surround and capture 4,000 Mewattees. I shall be + very much surprised if we see one of that interesting race! + + I fear that if my men form part of the manoeuvring party, we + shall not get to Goorgaon for six or seven days, or perhaps + ten, but I hope for the direct route. In either case, as we + shall do nothing, I would rather do it with as little + fatigue to man and horse as possible. The detached state of + this regiment is enough to ruin it. Three troops are at + Agra, or thereabouts, under Hugh Gough; the sick and depot + at Delhi, and portions of five troops here; but it seriously + increases the difficulty of managing a totally new regiment, + and it is hardly fair either to the men or to the commanding + officer. I have remonstrated, but, I suppose, with very + little effect, as I have had no answer. I trust, indeed, I + may get all together and go towards Oudh. + + _Oct. 23d._--To-day we still halt, and I hear a rumor that + on our return we go on to Agra. My other troops are on their + way to Cawnpore, so that, I think, there is every chance of + my getting that way too. However personally I might wish to + be quiet at Umbala for a time, I cannot ask not to be sent + on one of two expeditions with the same end, and + unquestionably for _our_ best interests. Oudh, where Napier + is in power, is the best field open. Tell ---- he may + unhesitatingly contradict the story about the rupees. It was + born in Delhi, and was partly the cause of General Wilson's + bad behavior to me; the money, 60,000_l._, was brought to me + late one night by the men, who had been desired (as Colonel + Seaton will corroborate) to secure prize property for him + and the other agents. We marched at daybreak next morning, + and I had only time to make it over to Macdowell to see it + locked up in the regimental chest for safety before we + started. When I returned, three or four days afterwards, a + story had been circulated by the native who had disgorged + the coin, that I had kept the money for myself! Of course + the very day I returned it was, with heaps of other things, + made over to the agents. And so stories go in this world. + The amount of petty jealousy excited by what my friends call + my "successes" is beyond belief. The capture of the King and + his sons, however ultimately creditable, has caused me more + envy and ill-will than you would believe possible, but I + have had too much experience of humanity, during the last + few years, to care for envy now; and, conscious as I am of + my own rectitude of purpose at least, however I may err in + judgment, I go on my way rejoicing. + + CAMP, PATONDHEE, _Oct. 27th_.--I am indeed most humbly and + earnestly grateful to the good God who has so mercifully + spared[60] what was so infinitely more precious to me than + life itself; and I do feel how entirely our hearts should be + filled with gratitude to Him for the bountiful mercies which + we mutually and individually have experienced at His hands + during the past year: the preservation of us both from + _such_ perils; my reemployment in an honorable position; my + ability to do such good service to the country at such a + crisis; the preservation of health in such a time of + exposure; my beloved wife's power and will to tend the + wounded, and succor the distressed; my complete, though + tardy, vindication from unjust charges; my almost assured + freedom from debt;--all these mercies are almost more than + my full heart can bear, and I sink on my knees in humble + gratitude at the foot of His throne who has done such + wonderful things for us. May He crown all other blessings by + granting us a safe reunion. + + +It will be seen by the foregoing letters that Hodson's Horse had, by +this time, acquired such proportions that they admitted of being +divided. One detachment, under Lieut. Gough, had been sent with +Colonel Greathed's column towards Agra, and afterwards joined Sir +Colin Campbell's force, and took part, with much distinction, in the +final relief of Lucknow by Sir Colin and Sir James Outram. + +The main body, with their commandant, accompanied Brigadier Showers, +and were of great service in anticipating the movements and cutting +off the retreat of the flying enemy, as well as in scouring the +country and bringing in supplies. Their rapidity of movement and +dashing courage made them a terror to the rebel forces, who had, on +more than one occasion, painful experience of the keenness of their +sabres. + +In the course of the expedition, the forces of several rebel rajahs +were defeated, their strongholds captured, with many guns, and +treasure amounting to 70,000_l._ taken, besides large quantities of +cattle. + +On one occasion upwards of 1,700 head of cattle had been taken. When +they were brought in, Brigadier Showers exclaimed, "Hang me! what in +the world am I to do with them? It would take half my force to convoy +them back to Delhi. I can't take them." On this Captain Hodson said, +"Well, sir, will you sell them to me, and let me take my chance?" +"Willingly," said the Brigadier; so the bargain was struck for two +rupees a head. Captain Hodson sent them off, under charge of their +drivers and two or three of his own sowars, to Delhi, where they +arrived safely, and were of course sold at a large profit. + +The speculation turned out a good one, but the chances were against +it. No one else, probably, under the circumstances, would have run the +risk, and the cattle would have been left behind. + +I mention this anecdote as showing that in small things as well as +great my brother refused to acknowledge difficulties, and deserved the +character given him of being the most "wide-awake" man in the army. +Shortly afterwards he invested part of the proceeds in a house at +Umbala, which happened to be then put up for a forced sale at a great +depreciation. This consequently went among his friends by the name of +the "cow-house." + +A short time before the return of the column to Delhi, he applied for +a few weeks' leave, in order to join his wife, who had come down from +Simla to Umbala. + +On November 3d he wrote to his sister from Umbala:-- + + After nearly six months of separation, I was happy enough to + get back here yesterday night, and find my wife well, and + all but recovered from the effects of her frightful + accident, the most wonderful escape, perhaps, from imminent + peril ever recorded. I take the first holiday I have had + since the 15th May, to write a few lines to you, my dearest + sister, to say what deep and real pleasure and comfort your + letters bring to me, amidst danger and toil and fatigue; and + how cheering it is to feel that, come what may, I am sure of + your loving sympathy and constant affection. I received + yesterday your letter of the 4th May, and could not but be + most forcibly struck with the contrast between my + circumstances individually, and those of the country, then + and now. No one will rejoice more than yourself at the + sudden change, and at the tolerable success which has been + permitted to my labors.... + + _Nov. 15th._--Here my pen was arrested by the news that the + mail was gone. In these days all regularity is set at + defiance, and again we have been startled by a notice to + send our letters within half an hour, and that, too, in the + midst of preparation for a hurried return to Delhi and + Meerut, to rejoin my regiment. We march at once to join Sir + Colin Campbell and the army assembling at Cawnpore for the + reconquest of Lucknow. + + I am getting on famously with my regiment; men of good + family and fighting repute are really flocking to my + standard,[61] and before the end of the year I hope to have + 1,000 horsemen under my command. + + + I had a letter the other day from ----, at Calcutta, from + which I learn that at last the truth is beginning to dawn on + the minds of men in power regarding me. They now say that my + remonstrance will be placed on record for preservation, "not + for justification, which it is fully admitted was not + required," and that "no higher testimonials were ever + produced." + + How much I have to be thankful for, not only for restored + position and means for future distinction, but for safety + and preservation during this terrible war, and for my dear + wife's escape. + + You must not misunderstand my silence. I was compelled to + leave the task of writing letters to Susie; I had barely + time to keep her assured of my safety from day to day. + +On the 2d December, "Hodson's Horse" were ordered to join a movable +column under Colonel Thomas Seaton, C. B., proceeding down the country +towards Cawnpore, in charge of an immense convoy of supplies of all +kinds for the Commander-in-Chief's army. The convoy was calculated to +extend over fifteen miles of road,--hackeries of grain, camels, +elephants, horses,--and but 1,500 men and four guns to protect them +all. At Allygurh the forces, marching respectively from Delhi and +Meerut, united on the 11th. On the following day Colonel Seaton, +leaving the convoy under the protection of the guns of the fort, +proceeded by forced marches to look after some large parties of the +rebel army who were encamped in the Doab. + +On the 10th, my brother wrote to his wife from + + CAMP SOMNA, _14 miles from Allygurh, Dec. 10th_. + + After four days of forced marches we joined the column this + morning, and march on to Allygurh to-morrow. We have been + quite out of the way of letters, both going and coming, + until to-day. The "enemy," who were supposed to have been in + our front at Khasgunge, have all disappeared, and there + seems to be no immediate prospect of our finding another. + Alfred Light marched down with me from Meerut to this place, + and now goes on with Colonel Seaton as orderly officer, I am + glad to say. We have a frightful convoy and crowd, but I + hope not for long. The head-quarter people, Colonels Keith, + Young, Becher, and Congreve, are with us. It is said that + our friend Napier is to be Adjutant-General of the + army,--delightful, if true. I have only just got my tent up, + and it is nearly dark, so I can only say that I am safe and + well. + + ALLYGURH, _Dec. 11th_.--We arrived here early this morning, + and I found Major Eld commanding and Arthur Cocks doing + Commissioner. Everything perfectly quiet in the + neighborhood, and no large gathering of Pandies anywhere + near. There is a small party at Khasgunge, and I hope we may + be lucky enough to find them, but I doubt their waiting for + us. Meantime we are to march down the Trunk Road, halting + here to-morrow. I cannot get over our parting, each + separation seems a greater wrench than the last. + + Of public news there is none, but one broad fact, that since + the 12th ultimo no news have been received from Lucknow, and + not a word even from Cawnpore since the 25th. This + necessarily excites alarm, but still my impression is, that + though our people may be surrounded with a close cordon of + disaffected and rebellious men, who cut off all + communication, yet that any serious harm can happen to a + force of 8,000 or 9,000 Europeans I will not readily + believe. I have 596 sabres with me now, 50 more coming from + Delhi, besides the 140 with Gough,--not so bad that. + + _Dec. 12th._--We hear to-day from Agra that the ladies and + sick and wounded from Lucknow and Cawnpore have been sent + down to Allahabad, and the Gwalior Contingent beaten. The + Commander-in-Chief is at Cawnpore, and troops will be + assembling there enough to put down all opposition, and open + the road to Calcutta. We march to-morrow morning from hence, + leaving the "_impedimenta_" behind here until we can + ascertain that the road is clear; when it is so, all will + move on. We have fifteen guns, mostly 9-pounders, with our + small but compact force. Major Eld joins us with a part of + his garrison, and Colonel Farquhar brings 300 Belooches, 200 + Affghans, and two guns to our aid. We shall be 2,500 + fighting men, and the "fathers of rebels" will hardly + stomach so much as that! Colonel Seaton is doing admirably, + very firm and very wide awake; so all will, I doubt not, go + well. + + JULALEE, _Dec. 13th_.--Your letter, inclosing our darling + sister's, found us lying in the dust, with a pea-soup + atmosphere of fine sand all around, discussing hot tea and + eggs, just as I had returned from a _reconnoissance_ to the + front, in virtue of my being the big eye and ear of the + camp.... The paragraph in the _Lahore Chronicle_ was too + absurd, and beneath my notice; but to please you and + Macdowell I consented to his saying anything he pleased on + the subject. Naturally, I must err sometimes in judgment, + even with prayer for my aid; but I never swerve from my one + and only aim, to do my duty as well and strictly as I can; + so the praise or blame of men affect me less than if I took + public opinion and not conscience for my guide. But + _apropos_ of the newspapers, Arthur Cocks tells me that the + _Friend of India_ has apologized for its strictures on my + conduct _in re_ the Shahzadahs; so let that satisfy you, for + nothing I could write, or my friends for me, could ever be + half so effectual as the _Friend's_ voluntary _amende_.... I + intended to have written much to-day, but I was waked at 3 + A. M., marched soon after, and with the exception of the + dusty breakfast (cheered by my letters), I was in the saddle + till half-past 2 P. M. Then regimental business, washed and + dressed, then threw myself on my bed for half an hour till + dinner, after which we get to bed as soon as we can, and up + again at 3 A. M., so there is not much time for what I want + to do of private matters. There's a history of a day in + camp. + + CAMP, GUNGEREE, _Dec. 14th_.--I have only time to say that I + am safe and well, though we have had a hard fight. The + enemy's cavalry, with three guns and some infantry, came on + from Bilaram to meet us this morning after breakfast,--about + 800 horsemen and a mob of foot,--but our guns soon stopped + their progress, and then the Carabineers and Lancers charged + straight down on them in the most magnificent style, + capturing all three of their guns at a dash! I grieve to + say, however, that they paid most dearly for their splendid + courage. All their officers went down. Captain Wardlaw, Mr. + Hudson, and Mr. Vyse, all killed, and Head, of the Lancers, + badly wounded. The infantry were not engaged at all. _We_ + attacked their flying cavalry and footmen on the left, and + made very short work of all we could catch. I lost a fine + old Resaldar, our dear old friend Mohammed Reza Khan's + brother. None of my officers hurt; but my horse (Rufus this + time) got a cut.[62] + + CAMP NEAR PUTTIALEE, _17th_.--I have but time for one line + again to say that "all's well." We have been on our horses + for eleven hours! The enemy had the boldness to await our + arrival here in great force and partly intrenched. We + attacked them soon after 8 A. M., they firing aimlessly at + us as we advanced, our guns coming into play with fine + effect. I then dashed into their camp with my regiment, + Bishop's troop of Artillery actually charging with us like + cavalry fairly into their camp! We drove them through camp + and town, and through gardens, fields, and lanes, capturing + every gun and all their ammunition and baggage. We pushed on + for six or seven miles, and read them a terrible lesson. The + Carabineers and my men alone must have killed some 500 or + 600 at least, all sowars and fanatics. We wound up by + killing the Nawab, who led them on his elephant, after a + long chase and an ingenious struggle, in which he was fairly + pulled out of his houdah. I am very tired, but delighted + with our day's work on Seaton's account. We have captured + thirteen guns and entirely dispersed the enemy. He ought to + be made a K. C. B. for this.[63] + + PUTTIALEE, _19th_.--I have just returned from a twenty-five + miles' ride reconnoitring towards the ghats of the Ganges, + and breakfasted _al fresco_ at 11/4 P. M.; so I am not too + fresh, as you may imagine, after the last few days of hard + work and hard galloping. Colonel Seaton tells me that he + wrote to you after our very successful action here. He does + all his work so well and pleasantly that it is a pleasure to + work under him. We have a very compact force and capital + officers, so everything goes on smoothly and comfortably. + The remnant of the gentry we thrashed here seem never to + have stopped running since. Another party have, however, + crossed over from Rohilcund, and are said to be coming our + way. I only wish they may. + + _Dec. 20th._--We march back to-morrow, and shall be at Etah + on the Grand Trunk Road on the 24th, when the convoy will + come on to rejoin us. I have ascertained that the result of + our affair here has been to drive the whole of the rebels + out of the country between this and Futtehgurh. + + From Etah we shall disperse the Mynpooree party, and then I + think there will be no rebels left in the Doab save at + Futtehgurh, and those the Commander-in-Chief will dispose + of. + + KHASGUNGE, _23d_.--The more we move in this direction, the + more do we realize of the satisfactory results of our + expedition and our fight of the 17th. It really was a very + complete affair, and had it been done under the eyes of the + Commander-in-Chief, I should have been made a colonel. + However, I can but admit that every disposition exists here + to give me (perhaps more than) my due. To-day we have for + the first time heard of the Commander-in-Chief's movements. + He comes up in two columns, _via_ the Grand Trunk Road, and + _via_ the Jumna towards Mynpooree. We shall be at the latter + place on Christmas day, I hope, and clear out the remainder + of the rebels who may still be lurking about the roads and + villages. We caught yesterday one of the rebel leaders, an + old Resaldar, covered with honors, pension, and dignity by + our Government! These rascals are as impervious to gratitude + as they are ignorant of truth. The neighborhood of + Futtehgurh has brought vividly home to me the horrors + committed, and the dreadful fate of poor Tudor Tucker, his + wife, children, and the other victims, is ever before me; it + often recalls a sterner judgment when we feel inclined to + _spare_. + + ETAH, _Dec. 24th_.--We got here after an eighteen miles' + march, and hear that the Chief was to leave Cawnpore "in a + few days" from the 14th, and would move up the Grand Trunk + Road with one column, sending another to skirt the Jumna. + General Windham is said to be coming up to take the + divisional command at Umbala. + + MULLOWN, CHRISTMAS DAY.--There seems a fatality against our + spending these anniversaries together; but my heart is full + of deep and earnest prayer for you and all my loved ones, + and I try to hope that our next Christmas may be spent _at + home_. + + We march to Kerowlee to-morrow, and shall be at Mynpooree on + the 27th, there to halt for a few days, until the convoy is + collected and we can hear from the Commander-in-Chief. We + have just heard that Mayhew is the new Adjutant-General, and + Norman, Deputy. This last is a splendid thing, and shows Sir + Colin's determination to put the right man in the right + place, in spite of all the red tape and seniority systems in + the world! I can hear nothing of our dear friend Napier, but + I suppose he is with Sir James Outram. + + MYNPOOREE, _December 27th_.--We have just returned from a + sixteen miles' pursuit of the rebel force posted in front of + this place. They only waited until the Horse Artillery guns + opened on them, and then fled precipitately, so we had to + ride hard to overtake them. They flung away their arms, and + became simple villagers with astonishing rapidity; it would + have done credit to the stage. No one hurt but two of my + sowars. We have got all their guns (six in number), and the + Doab is clear now to Futtehgurh. + + MYNPOOREE, _December 28th_.--The Commander-in-Chief had not + left Cawnpore on the 16th, but was to do so very soon; we + hope to hear of him. Please send the inclosed notes to the + ladies to whom they are addressed, and if they like to + inclose me any _miniature_ replies, I will take care they + are safely forwarded to their husbands. + + MYNPOOREE, _December 29th_.--I _have_ spoken about poor + Wardlaw's effects, and Mrs. ----'s kind offer was accepted + gladly; but a reference to Meerut was necessary, and I have + not yet had a final answer. Poor fellow! never was a more + gallant charge than the last he led, and I agree with his + brother officers that "a kinder friend, a more gallant + soldier, and a better comrade, never stepped than George + Wardlaw." Both his death and that of his comrade, Mr. + Hudson, were perhaps unnecessary,--by which I mean that a + better acquaintance with their enemy might have saved both. + The former, after the charge, dashed single-handed--with a + cheer--into a knot of matchlock-men waiting to receive him, + and was shot dead instantly. Had he gathered together only + half a dozen dragoons, he might have ridden over them. The + other (Hudson) was shot by a wretched fugitive lying + prostrate in a field. Not understanding their tactics, he + rode up to him and halted, thus offering a fair mark for the + villain's ready musket. He was a son of the ex-Railway King. + + MYNPOOREE, _December 30th_, 6 A. M.--I am just starting for + the Chief's camp, which is at or near Goorsahaigunge, some + forty miles from hence. I am taking despatches from Colonel + Seaton, and to see that the road is clear. I hope to be back + to dinner. Mac goes with me. + + BEWAR, GRAND TRUNK ROAD, _December 31st_.--Yesterday, I rode + with Mac to the Commander-in-Chief's camp. It was farther + off than I had been led to believe, and I had to go + fifty-four miles to reach him. I found him wonderfully fresh + and well, and met with a most cordial and hearty welcome + from him, General Mansfield, and, in fact, from all. Gough, + Bruce, and Mackinnon, all fat and well. I was much pleased + with all I heard and saw; the sight of the sailors and the + Highlanders did my eyes and heart good. Such dear, + wild-looking fellows as these Jack-tars are, but so + respectful and proper in conduct and manner. Our dear Napier + is wounded, I grieve to say, though, thank God! not badly, + and is left behind at Cawnpore. So I am gazetted a _Captain_ + at last! All the letters, papers, and despatches relative to + Delhi have been published, and I am again thanked in + despatches by the Governor-General.... Sir Colin was very + complimentary, and my men, under Gough, have won great + distinction and universal praise. I rejoiced to see my old + friend Norman in his proper place, the _de facto_ + Adjutant-General of the army; and Hope Grant has done + everything admirably. We Punjaubee cavalry folks are quite + "the thing" just now.... We had a narrow escape yesterday + from a party of the enemy crossing the road _en route_ from + the southward to Futtehgurh; they attacked my sowars after + we (Mac and I) had ridden on, and killed one of them, and + wounded several. Coming back at night, we passed quite close + to the enemy's bivouac, hearing their voices distinctly; but + by taking it quietly, and riding on soft ground, we got past + unmolested and into Bewar (to which place Seaton moved up + this morning) by 3 A. M., having dined with the + Commander-in-Chief last evening. We had ridden ninety-four + miles since six in the morning. I, seventy-two on one horse, + my gallant Rufus. We astonished the head-quarter people not + a little. + +I am again indebted to the pen of Lieutenant Macdowell, for a fuller +account of the hairbreadth escape which he and my brother had in the +course of this ride, in which they so gallantly and successfully +opened communication between the two forces. + + "CAMP, BEWAR, _Jan. 1st, 1858_. + + "You know we took Mynpooree on the 27th. We halted that day + and the two following. On the night of the 29th, Hodson came + into my tent, about nine o'clock, and told me a report had + come in that the Commander-in-Chief had arrived with his + forces at Goorsahaigunge, about thirty-eight miles from + Mynpooree, and that he had volunteered to ride over to him + with despatches, asking me at the same time if I would + accompany him. Of course I consented at once, and was very + much gratified by his selecting me as his companion. At 6 A. + M. the next morning we started, with seventy-five sowars of + our own regiment. I do not wish to enhance the danger of the + undertaking, but shall merely tell you that since Brigadier + Grant's column moved down this road towards Lucknow, it had + been closed against all Europeans; that we were not certain + if the Commander-in-Chief's camp was at Goorsahaigunge + (which uncertainty was verified, as you will see); and that, + to say the least of it, there was a chance of our falling in + with roving bands of the enemy.[64] + + "We started at 6 A. M., and reached Bewar all safe, + fourteen miles from our camp. Here we halted, and ate + sandwiches, and then, leaving fifty men to stay till our + return, pushed on to Chibberamow, fourteen miles farther on. + Here we made another halt, and then, leaving the remaining + twenty-five men behind, we pushed on by ourselves, + unaccompanied, for Goorsahaigunge, where we hoped to find + the Commander-in-Chief. On arriving there (a fourteen miles' + stage), we found the Commander-in-Chief was at + Meerun-ke-Serai, fifteen miles farther on. This was very + annoying; but there was no help for it, so we struck out for + it as fast as we could, the more so as we heard that the + enemy, 700 strong, with four guns, was within two miles of + us. We arrived at Meerun-ke-Serai at 4 A. M., and found the + camp there all right. We were received most cordially by + all, and not a little surprised were they to hear where we + had come from. Hodson was most warmly received by Sir Colin + Campbell, and was closeted with him till dinner-time. + Meanwhile, I sought out some old friends, and amused myself + with looking at the novel sight of English sailors employed + with heavy guns. I also went to see the Highlanders, and + magnificent fellows they are, with their bonnets and kilts, + looking as if they could eat up all the Pandies in India. A + summons to the Commander-in-Chief's table called me away, + and off I went to dinner, when I found Hodson seated by Sir + Colin, and carrying on a most animated conversation with + him. We had a very pleasant dinner, and at 8 P. M. started + on our long ride (fifty-four miles) back. We arrived at + Goorsahaigunge all safe, and pushed on at once for the next + stage, Chibberamow. When we had got half way, we were + stopped by a native, who had been waiting in expectation of + our return. God bless him! I say, and I am sure you will + say so too when you have read all. He told us that a party + of the enemy had attacked our twenty-five sowars at + Chibberamow, cut up some, and beaten back the rest, and that + there was a great probability some of them (the enemy) were + lurking about the road to our front. This was pleasant news, + was it not?--twenty miles from the Commander-in-Chief's + camp, thirty from our own; time, midnight; scene, an open + road; _dramatis personae_, two officers armed with swords and + revolvers, and a howling enemy supposed to be close at hand. + We deliberated what we should do, and Hodson decided we + should ride on at all risks. 'At the worst,' he said, 'we + can gallop back; but we'll try and push through.' The native + came with us, and we started. I have seen a few adventures + in my time, but must confess this was the most trying one I + had ever engaged in. It was a piercingly cold night, with a + bright moon and a wintry sky, and a cold wind every now and + then sweeping by and chilling us to the very marrow. Taking + our horses off the hard road on to the side where it was + soft, so that the noise of their footfalls could be less + distinctly heard, we silently went on our way, anxiously + listening for every sound that fell upon our ears, and + straining our sight to see if, behind the dark trees dotted + along the road, we could discern the forms of the enemy + waiting in ambush to seize us. It was indeed an anxious + time. We proceeded till close to Chibberamow. 'They are + there,' said our guide in a whisper, pointing to a garden in + a clump of trees to our right front. Distinctly we heard a + faint hum in the distance;--whether it was the enemy, or + whether our imagination conjured up the sound, I know not. + We slowly and silently passed through the village, in the + main street of which we saw the dead body of one of our men + lying stark and stiff and ghastly in the moonlight; and on + emerging from the other side, dismissed our faithful guide, + with directions to come to our camp,--and then, putting + spurs to our horses, we galloped for the dear life to Bewar, + breathing more freely as every stride bore us away from the + danger now happily past. We reached Bewar at about two + o'clock A. M., and found a party of our men sent out to look + for us. Our troopers had ridden in to say they had been + attacked and driven back, and that we had gone on alone, and + all concluded we must fall into the hands of the enemy. We + flung ourselves down on charpoys and slept till daylight, + when our column marched in, and we received the hearty + congratulations of all on our escape. What do you think of + it? The man whose information gave us such timely warning, + and thereby prevented our galloping on, by which we should + certainly have excited the attention of the enemy, has been + very handsomely rewarded, and obtained employment. + + "It appears from the reports afterwards received, that the + party that cut up our men were fugitives from Etawah, where + a column of ours, under General Walpole, had arrived. They + consisted of about 1,500 men, with seven guns, and were + proceeding to Futtypore. We rode in at one end of + Chibberamow in the morning;--they rode in at the other. They + saw us, but we did not see them, as we were on unfavorable + ground. Thinking we were the advanced guard of our column, + they retired hastily to a village some two coss off. + Meanwhile, Hodson and I, unconscious of their vicinity, rode + on. They sent out scouts, and ascertained that only + twenty-five of our sowars were in the village, upon which + they resumed their march, sending a party to cut up our men, + and, I suppose, to wait for our return. All Hodson said + when we were at Bewar, and safe, was 'By George! Mac, I'd + give a good deal for a cup of tea,' and immediately went to + sleep. He is the coolest hand I have ever yet met. We rode + ninety-four miles. Hodson rode seventy-two on one horse, the + little dun, and I rode Alma seventy-two miles also." + +Colonel Seaton, in a letter written shortly afterwards to Mrs. Hodson, +thus describes the anxiety he felt:-- + + "MAHOMEDABAD, _Jan. 5th_. + + "Oh, what a fright I was in the night before we marched from + Mynpooree. Your husband knew that I was most anxious to + communicate with the Commander-in-Chief, and volunteered to + ride across, and as Mr. Cocks said that he had most positive + information that the Commander-in-Chief was at + Goorsahaigunge, I consented. He started at daybreak, taking + a strong party of his own regiment. + + "At sunset, one of his men returned, saying that he and + Macdowell had left a party at Chibberamow, and ridden + forward; that the party had subsequently been surprised by + the enemy, and cut up. + + "At first, this seemed most alarming, yet I had the greatest + faith in his consummate prudence and skill. I knew Macdowell + was with him, and I said to myself, 'If those two are not + sharp enough to dodge the black fellows, why the d---- is in + it.' But still I could not help feeling most uneasy, and + saying, 'Oh, dear! what should I say to his poor wife!' I + did not sleep one wink all night. In the morning a sowar + galloped in with a note from him. Oh, what a relief to my + mind! + + "The day before yesterday, we rode over together to the + Commander-in-Chief's camp at Goorsahaigunge, and found he + had moved on four miles beyond the Kalee Nuddee. We + followed, and came in for the tail of a fight, as there were + still some dropping shots. I was received with great + cordiality by the Commander-in-Chief, and warmly + congratulated on our successes. + + "Your gallant husband has now left me, and I find it most + painful to part, for he is a warm friend and true soldier; + always ready with his pen, his sword, or his counsel at my + slightest wish; indeed, he often anticipated my wishes, as + if he could divine what I wanted. I missed his cheerful + manly face at my breakfast this morning, and am not in a + good-humor at all to-day." + +In a letter to England of the same date, my brother says:-- + + At last, after twelve years' service, I am a Captain + regimentally from the 14th September last; poor Major + Jacobs' death after the assault having given me my + promotion,--dearly purchased by the death of such a man! I + have much to be thankful for, not only for the most + unhoped-for escapes from wounds and death, but for the + position I now occupy, and for the appreciation my work has + received from those in power. My new regiment has done good + service, and got much [Greek: kudos]. + +On January 1, 1858, he writes to his wife from + + CAMP, BEWAR.--I must write a few lines on this _jour de + l'an_, though they will be but few, as we start shortly for + the Commander-in-Chief's camp at Goorsahaigunge, + twenty-eight miles off,--the "we" means Colonel Seaton, + Light, and myself. I do hope it will then be decided when + we are to join the Chief, which, for many reasons, I am most + anxious to do. Macdowell wrote you a capital account of our + expedition to Meerun-ke-Serai, which you will get before + this reaches you. He is _game_ to the backbone, but he has + not the physical stamina for such an adventure as that. I am + sorry to say I lost three of my men killed and four wounded, + and my horse, saddle and bridle (English), were lost. I wish + you could coax ---- out of that horse he got of General + Anson; life and more than life sometimes depends on being + well mounted. + + _January 3d._--We did not get back from Goorsahaigunge till + two this morning, very weary and tired, and now comes an + order, just as I am sitting down to write, for my regiment + to march at once to join the Chief's camp near Futtehgurh; + so I am again reduced to the mere announcement that I am + safe and well. I have just heard that the rebels have bolted + from Futtehgurh. + + FUTTEHGURH, _4th January_.--A night-march of twenty-five + miles, tents up at 1 P. M., after which breakfast, and two + interviews with the Chief and his staff, have not left me + much daylight or time for the post. Futtehgurh was abandoned + as I foretold, and our troops are all concentrating here, + not a shot having been fired. We remain here a few days, but + a few inglorious but needful burning expeditions will + probably be all we shall have to do. Our dear friend Napier + is recovered, or nearly so, from his wound. I hope he will + join the Chief, who appreciates him as he deserves. + + _January 5th._--The anniversary of the most blessed event in + my life again to be spent in absence.... I see no chance + just yet of any vigorous action by which the war might be + concluded, and we released from this toilsome campaign. The + Commander-in-Chief is tied by red tape, and obliged to wait + the orders of Government as to where he is to go! Are our + rulers _still_ infatuated? You complain of the shortness of + my letters, and with justice; but the most important + business, often the safety of the force, depends on my doing + my duty unflinchingly. Colonel Seaton dines with me to-day + to drink your health on this _our_ day. I have spoken for + Reginald[65] to come and do duty with him; but I fear that + "Seaton's fighting column" has sunk in the sea of this great + camp, but I will do my best to get the dear boy down here. + + _6th._--We march to-day, with a brigade under Colonel Adrian + Hope, on some punishing expeditions. I hope to return in + three or four days, and where we go next is not known. + Seaton has subsided for the present into the simple Colonel + of Fusiliers, which seems hard enough after all he has done. + I hope they will soon give him a brigade. + + CAMP, SHUMSHABAD, _January 7th_.--Here we are on the move + again! Colonel Hope's brigade, consisting of the 42d and 73d + Highlanders, 2d Punjaub Infantry, a Royal Artillery battery, + two guns Bengal H. A., a squadron of Lancers, and half my + men--a splendid little force with nothing to do I fear but + pull down houses, the owners of which have all escaped. We + are only a few miles from the place to which we pursued the + enemy from Puttialee, and had Colonel Seaton been allowed to + push on _then_, we should have caught and punished these + rascals as they deserved. Brigadier Hope is a very fine + fellow and a pleasant; about my age, or younger if anything, + though, of course, longer in the army. When he knows more + of India he will do very well indeed, I should think. Wise, + Macdowell, Gough the younger, and a Mr. Cockerell, are with + me. I can make out nothing of our probable plans, or rather + of the Chief's. "Waiting for orders" seems to be the order + of the day. If something is not speedily decided, the hot + weather will be on us before our work is over, and this + would tell terribly on us all. + + CAMP, KAIMGUNGE, _January 8th_.--We remain here to-morrow, + and then return, I fancy, to head-quarters. I can bear up + manfully against absence and separation when we are actually + doing anything; but when I see nothing doing towards an end, + I confess my heart sinks, and my spirit hungers after rest. + I should be very, very glad if dear Maynard would make up + her mind to join you. It would be a real comfort to me to + think that we had been able to do anything towards + contributing to her peace or comfort. Independently of my + sincere regard for her, she is her father's daughter, and I + owe him too much gratitude and reverence not to desire to + show it in every way to all of the name and blood of + Thomason. + + KAIMGUNGE, _January 10th_.--Our time has been taken up with + riding about the country after Whippoorwills, which elude + our search and grasp, the only consolation being fine + exercise in a fine country. Will you ask Lord W. Hay + whether, if the report of his going home be true, he will + resell me the mules? I should be most thankful to get them + again, and twice the number; they are much better for + baggage than ponies, carry larger loads, and do not knock up + so soon. + + CAMP, FUTTEHGURH, _January 12th_.--We returned from our + brief expedition this morning, not having effected much, + though we frightened many, I have no doubt. I was just + talking to Colonel Hope (himself an old 60th man), about my + dear good friend Douglas, when I got your letter inclosing + his most welcome one. How rejoiced I shall be if he returns + to India with his battalion! I quite long to see him once + more. Indeed, as time goes on, old ties of affection and + friendship seem to unite themselves more intimately with + newer and dearer ones, and my heart pines more and more for + home and all which nought but home can give. + + FUTTEHGURH, _January 14th_.--I was unhappily so much delayed + by a tedious review yesterday morning, and an interview with + the Chief afterwards, that I did not get to my tent till + after post-time, though I am thankful to say I found some + very precious missives,--the dear girls' letters were a + treat indeed, and gave me very real pleasure. I am beginning + to hope that I shall have my previous services recognized; + for although I do not know that any record of the promise of + a majority was down in Leadenhall Street, still Lord + Dalhousie's promise was distinct, and there is evidently + every desire on our present Chief's part to do me justice. + You ask about my position here, and do not quite understand + how the safety of the camp can depend on my vigilance. This + referred not to this camp, but to Colonel Seaton's (now at + last a Brigadier), where I not only was Assistant + Quartermaster-General, but had all the outposts to furnish. + _Here_ I am desired to continue my intelligence business; + but there is another officer (Captain Bruce) actually in + charge of the department. I suppose it is intended rather to + employ me when detached from the main force, as the other + day under Brigadier Hope. However, I am at present in charge + of all in Captain Bruce's absence, and my continuing it or + not depends very much on circumstances. Nothing can be + kinder or more cordial than the Commander-in-Chief and + General Mansfield. We seem destined to halt here at present; + half the day has been occupied in changing ground. So when + one can't get one's tent pitched till 1 or 2 P. M., there is + little time for writing for a post closing at 5, considering + that business and eating and washing have to be performed. I + must try and write more to-night. + + CAMP ON THE RAMGUNGA, _January 15th_.--I left off my last + letter with a promised intention of writing more last night, + but the result of dining with the Chief was, that I was kept + up so late and had to rise so early that I was fain to carry + my weary limbs to bed at once. We have been occupied all day + in getting down here from the big camp at Futtehgurh some + ten miles off, so that I am again perforce obliged to renew + instead of fulfilling my promise. You will hear of me before + this reaches you; General Grant and Majors Norman and Turner + having taken wing to Umbala for a few days. They have had no + holiday since May, and heartily deserved one, though I must + confess I did feel a little envious when I saw them off. + What would not I give for home once more! + + We are here to force a passage across the Ramgunga, a + confluent of the Ganges on the road to Bareilly; but it does + not follow that we shall go there when the passage is open. + Brigadier Walpole commands, and we have enough troops to eat + up Rohilcund; whether we (_i. e._, my regiment) partake of + the "finish" in Oude or not, no one can pretend to foretell. + + Colonel Becher will be at Umbala soon, on his way home. You + will be kind to him I am sure, both because you like him + personally, and because he has been most kind and + considerate to me. It was very ungracious as well as + ungraceful, that his name was not mentioned in the + Despatches as it ought to have been; but he is not the only + one who has cause to complain of the "ungraciousness" of our + Delhi General. + + CAMP ON THE RAMGUNGA, _January 17th_.--We are still in the + same undignified attitude of looking at nothing and doing as + little; but the halt has been very useful to me in the way + of getting through business, and I have hardly stirred from + my table all day. The plundering propensities of some of my + men have given me much occupation and annoyance, as I always + feel that the ill-conduct of a regiment must more or less + reflect on the officers. The rascals will not discriminate + between an enemy's property, which is fair game, and that of + the villagers and cultivators of the soil. I have several + times been obliged to bring them up with a sharp hand to + save myself from discredit. I sent three sowars to-day to + the Brigadier with evidence and proof enough to hang them, + but he begged me to dispose of the matter summarily myself; + but as I did not choose to be judge, jury, and hangman all + in one, they saved their lives at the expense of their + backs, though I believe the punishment was greater to me + than to them, for I abhor flogging, and never resort to it + but in the extremest cases. Still I must be obeyed by these + wild hordes _coute qui coute_; and when reason and argument + fail, they must learn that I will not weakly refrain from + sterner measures. I am happy to find Sir Colin ready to back + me _a l'outrance_ so as to maintain discipline. Have you + written to our dear friends Napier and Prendergast yet? The + latter is in Calcutta with his bride long ago. Sir James + Outram and Napier have given Mister Pandy a glorious + thrashing at Alumbagh. Hurrah! + + _January 19th._--I had to go over to see the Chief, + yesterday, and did not return till night. I also saw good + Colonel Seaton and Becher, who (the last) starts in a day or + two for home and England. I did know about Mr. Wemyss's good + appointment, for Sir Colin good-naturedly gave me the letter + to take to him. Wemyss is a lucky fellow, and will, I hope, + do credit to his luck. I only wish I had some family + interest to bring into play; my lieutenant-colonelcy would + be certain. H. Maxwell is to be the new Adjutant of my dear + old regiment, and ought to make a good one; there is no one + now with the regiment who has any experience of the work, + and Maxwell is more likely to learn than many; he has grown + such a tall handsome fellow since we saw him at Benares, and + is said to be a fine soldier in the field. Mac has a letter + from Lord William speaking with enthusiasm of the conduct of + some of the ladies during the Simla panics. He does not seem + to be the only one who thinks that heroism in the hills is + confined to the weaker sex. I am working to get some pay as + Assistant Quartermaster-General, in addition to my pay as + commandant, which the pay officer objects to, on the ground + that one man cannot draw the pay of two offices. They should + have had two men to do it then; for I worked like a slave, + and the laborer is worthy of his hire. I saw and had a long + talk with your "charming" Mr. Raikes yesterday. + + _January 22d._--There has been no news of public importance + for some days, so I am taking advantage of the halt and + comparative idleness to work off arrears of business and + papers, and to prepare rolls and pay abstracts for Captain + Swinton's office. I have consequently not been half a mile + from my tent these two days; moreover, I am resting my + unlucky ankle, which has given me much pain and trouble + lately. I am very glad Mr. Montgomery is at Umbala. I am + sure you would tell him how grateful I have ever felt for + his assistance in raising my regiment; the two troops he + sent me I shall call Montgomery's troops, and the men will + like it too. I am sadly off for horses, so if you really do + not care to ride until "the sweet time of grace" of our + reunion, I shall be very thankful for Selim. Will you ask + Mr. Forsyth to ascertain for me by telegraph, whether Mr. + Eliot at Loodiana has sent off my other troop from thence? I + must try and get as many of my men together as I can during + this halt. + + _23d._--Our friend Colonel Seaton is to have command of a + district to be formed of Allygurh, Futtehgurh, Mynpooree, + and the post at Meerun-ke-Serai. It is a very honorable and + important post; but he would prefer, and I for him, a more + active command. I expect the rest of the force will move + into Oudh soon, and I do trust to be at the ultimate capture + of Lucknow, which ought to earn me the Queen's Cross, if + "deerin do" can gain it. + + _24th._--They say we are to move soon, but no one knows for + certain, as I have not been into head-quarters for some + days; meantime my pen is busy, _very_ busy, with six months' + arrears to work off, but I am getting on at it famously. + + FUTTEHGURH, _26th_.--Late last night I was roused up by an + order to march in here at dawn, so here, accordingly, we + came; and now at 10 P. M. we are off again, on some + expedition which will last us a few days.[66] The Chief + sent for me as soon as we came in, and was very + communicative, and asked my opinion in most flattering + terms. I gave it honestly, and only hope he will follow it, + if we are to make an end of this business before another hot + season sets in. I fancy the whole force will be in motion + soon towards Oudh; but nothing is certainly known as yet, + except that we go to our old place Shumshabad. Colonel + Adrian Hope again commands the brigade; we start almost + immediately, and shall, I hope, do something effective. + + FORT FUTTEHGURH, _Jan. 28th_. (_Written with the left + hand, in pencil._) + + Though I sent you a telegram, I must manage a few words by + letter to tell you that there is not the very slightest + cause for alarm on my account, for I am really quite well; + only my right arm will be useless for some weeks, but I can + do my duty, and intend to march with the Commander-in-Chief. + What grieves me most is the loss of poor Mac; he was + invaluable to me as a brilliant soldier, a true friend, and + thorough gentleman,--I mourn as for a brother.[67] + + _January 29th._--My constant fear is that you should be + alarmed for me. I assure you there is not the slightest + occasion for anxiety. I have a cut on my hand, and another + sabre-cut over the forearm, but neither will be of more than + temporary inconvenience. I am obliged to write with my left + hand, _that is all_. I go about as usual, and dined with the + Chief last night. It was a splendid little affair at + Shumshabad, and our men and officers did wonders, and have + gained great credit. We charged a large body of the enemy's + cavalry, superior in numbers, and all else, to ourselves. + They fought us desperately, returning twice to the charge. + We then attacked their infantry, all fanatics, who fought + with the courage of despair. Their loss must have been + immense; but we have lost one who outweighs them all. I + cannot tell you how much I feel it. We bury the dear fellow + this evening by the side of the murdered Tudor Tucker. + +In a letter to England of the same date, he says:-- + CAMP, FUTTEHGURH, _Jan. 31st, 1858_. (_Written with left + hand._) + + My usual fortune deserted me on the 27th, at Shumshabad, for + I got two sabre-cuts on my right arm, which have reduced me + to this very sinister style of writing (absit omen). We had + a very stiff fight of it, as we were far in advance of the + rest of the troops, and had to charge a very superior body + of the mutineer cavalry; but there was nothing for it but + fighting, as, had we not attacked them, they would have got + in amongst our guns. We were only three officers, and about + 180 horsemen,--my poor friend, and second in command, + Macdowell, having received a mortal wound a few minutes + before we charged. It was a terrible _melee_ for some time, + and we were most wonderfully preserved. However, we gave + them a very proper thrashing, and killed their leaders. Two + out of the three of us were wounded, and five of my men + killed, and eleven wounded, besides eleven horses. My horse + had three sabre-cuts, and I got two, which I consider a + rather unfair share. The Commander-in-Chief is very well + satisfied, I hear, with the day's work, and is profusely + civil and kind to me. The force moves on to-morrow towards + Cawnpore and Lucknow, which has at last to be conquered; for + neither Outram, Havelock, nor the Commander-in-Chief were + able to effect a footing in Lucknow. All they could do was + to bring away the Residency garrison. All the lion's share + of the work, in the six weeks which intervened between the + _soi-disant_ relief of the Lucknow garrison by Havelock, and + the real one by the Commander-in-Chief, was done by our + friend Colonel Napier. He is the best man we have left, now + that poor Sir Henry Lawrence and Nicholson are gone. The + next is Major Tombs, or I am much mistaken.... I hope to + return to Umbala when this war is over, to be refitted and + get my men trained and drilled, which is very necessary. I + do hope to be able to get home and see your dear faces once + more, as soon as our great task is accomplished. I want a + change, after twelve years of work, and I want to try what + home and good treatment will do for my ankle, which is very + bad; in fact, I am unable to walk a hundred yards without + pain. Well, I think I have done pretty well with my left + hand. They say I shall be well in six weeks. _I_ say in ten + days; I trust so. + + * * * * * + + _To his Wife._ + + FUTTEHGURH, _Jan. 30th_. + + Mr. Raikes tells me that he wrote to you immediately after + the action at Shumshabad, lest you should be made unhappy by + report. This was most kind and thoughtful of him; and I do + hope, therefore, that among so many kind friends you will + have been spared any unnecessary pain. Everybody is very + complimentary; even men I never spoke to before. A + flattering rascal told me he considered it an "honor + (forsooth!) to shake even my left hand." I might become too + proud with so much notice, but the memory of 1854-55 is ever + before me. The Commander-in-Chief has been unable to move as + yet, for many reasons, but I fancy we shall march ere long. + I am wonderfully well, and the big wound is actually closing + already! is not that famous? + + _January 31st._--I have been busy until post-time with + looking over poor Mac's things, and taking an inventory of + them for his mother. I am sure you will write to her as soon + as we can ascertain her address. We march on towards + Cawnpore to-morrow morning; it is a grief to me to be + disabled ever so little just at this time, but in a very few + days I shall be all right again. + + _January 31st._--The Chief wont let me go on just yet, + though I really am perfectly able to do so. I am not a bit + the worse for these wounds, beyond the temporary + inconvenience and disgust at being _hors de combat_ in such + times as these. I look forward with the utmost pleasure to + seeing our friend Napier at Lucknow; I wish we could hear + from him. Inglis's despatch is, as you say, most touching, + and his conduct most admirable, as well as hers. I always + thought her a fine character. + + _February 1st and 2d._--I am really doing very well, and the + wounds are healing wonderfully fast. In ten days I hope to + use my arm; they threatened me with six weeks! I have indeed + cause for gratitude, not only for my preservation from + greater evil, but for this rapid recovery; happily I was in + good health at the time, and these wounds depend almost + entirely on the state of the blood. I shall remain here + until the day after to-morrow, and then accompany Brigadier + Walpole's brigade to join the Chief at Cawnpore. Colonel + Burn drives me along in a buggy; for though I _can_ ride, it + is not advisable to run the risk of a shake. Every one is + most kind; Sir Colin markedly so. We are to have prize money + for Delhi after all; this will please as well as benefit the + army, the soldiers not being over-well contented with the + six months' batta, thinking that was all they were to get. + It is hardly, perhaps, to be expected that the masses should + be satisfied with the mere consciousness of having done + their duty through such months of suffering as those before + Delhi. + + A soldier wrote upon the walls of the Delhi palace (alluding + to Lord Canning's foolish order about six months' donation + of batta, which is but thirty-six rupees and some odd pence + for each man):-- + + "For the salvation of India, the British soldier gets + thirty-six rupees ten annas, or one rupee one anna per + battle;" adding:-- + + "When danger's rife and wars are nigh, + God and the soldier's all the cry: + When wars are o'er and matters righted, + God is forgotten and the soldier slighted." + + Would you credit it? The Calcutta wiseacres sent up orders + to institute a strict inquiry who wrote this _jeu d'esprit_. + What nuts for the rascal who did it to see how deep his hit + had rankled! + + _February 3d._--I am overwhelmed with letters of + congratulation, which I can only acknowledge by a few lines + in this sinister writing. Light has written very warmly, + also Lord William; you must thank them both for me at + present, as we march for Cawnpore early in the morning. So I + shall be at the capture of Lucknow after all! and after that + may God restore us to each other to part no more! + + CAMP, JELLALABAD, ON THE GRAND TRUNK ROAD, _February + 5th_.--We shall be at Cawnpore in four days more, I trust. + Nothing can be more favorable than the state of my wounds, + and I have felt scarcely any inconvenience from travelling. + I am fortunate in having Colonel Burn for a travelling + companion; pleasant, intelligent, and warm-hearted. He + drives me in his buggy, and we breakfast together _al + fresco_. Fancy the Carabineers of poor Captain Wardlaw's + squadron sending a deputation, headed by a sergeant, to say + on the part of the men how grieved they were that I was + hurt, and to express their hope that I should soon be well + and in the field again. I confess these things are more + gratifying to me than any mention in despatches. + + CAMP, MEERUN-KE-SERAI, _February 6th_.--We had a very trying + march this morning, a gale of wind bringing up clouds of + dust and grit, which cut one's face and eyes to pieces. I + half wished I was a lady to wear a veil! We overtook + Maunsell, of the Engineers, who was so badly wounded at + Delhi, poor fellow; he is quite recovered, but his handsome + face a good deal disfigured by the wound in his forehead. + The Governor-General is at Allahabad, and I believe Sir + Colin is gone on to meet him. I am doing well, and getting + more handy in the use of my left hand, but 'tis a cruel + nuisance having only one to resort to. The weather is + getting warm very fast in these parts, and I fear we shall + have the hot weather on us very soon. However, as soon as + Lucknow has finally fallen, I shall make every effort to get + away to organize and discipline my regiment, and for rest + and home for myself. + + _February 8th._--I go on into Cawnpore in the morning, + making two marches in one; my arm has not been going on + quite so well the last three days, owing, the doctor says, + to the sharp wind. The wound on the thumb is nearly closed, + and I shall be all right, I hope, after two or three days' + quiet at Cawnpore. The getting up in the cold mornings is + very trying, now that I am unable to ride or walk to get + warm. + + CAWNPORE, _February 10th_.--I got here in good time + yesterday, but was kept constantly at work fomenting this + tiresome arm, which had got somewhat inflamed from the + effects of the journey. To-day we cross the river, and + encamp a mile or two on the other side, and there I hope to + halt for a few days. I found letters here from Calcutta, and + have had a visit from Charles Harland, who is as jolly and + hearty as ever. Our friend (Napier) is Chief Engineer with + the force, and a Brigadier to boot. I hope to see him in a + day or two. I have not been to the Chief's camp yet; it is a + long way off, and my arm has prevented me doing anything. I + shall be very thankful when it is well, if but to use it for + writing,--this left-handed calligraphy is sad slow work. + + CAMP ON THE LEFT BANK OF THE GANGES, _February 11th_.--I + came across the river late in the evening, and am very glad + I did so, as the air is much purer, and there is no dust. My + arm is already better for the rest, and I hope soon to be + able to begin to use it. Do not buoy yourself up with hope + of honors for me. I shall be a Brevet-Major, and nothing + more I expect. It seems the authorities here never sent home + a list of men recommended for honors; and the home + authorities have been waiting until they get one. "Hinc illae + lacrymae!" And we shall all suffer by the delay in more ways + than one. But we are certainly to have prize money, and + this, with the batta, will take us home this time next year + if not sooner. Dear, dear home, sadly changed and contracted + since I left it, but home still, and dearer than ever since + the dearest part of myself will accompany me.... All old + home memories were so vividly revived yesterday by Charles + Harland's visit, and an extract he read me from a letter + from his brother, describing the enthusiasm of the old + people at Colwich,[68] when the news arrived that the King + of Delhi was our prisoner, and how they came to inquire + whether it was really their "Master William" who had done + it? Bless their innocent hearts, where was they riz? as ---- + would say. I am sadly at a loss for a second in command, and + do not know whom to ask for, as officers are so scarce. I + have twice made an attempt to ask for Reginald to join me to + do duty, but my fears for you have made me hesitate; and the + lesson of the other day has taught me the fearful risk the + dear boy would run in an irregular cavalry regiment, with + such work as mine. Still, if you and he wish it, I will ask + for him. + + _February 12th._--Here I am, you see, writing (such as it + is) with my right hand once more. I am, indeed, wonderfully + better, and hope to be on horseback in a few days. The scar + on my arm is a very ugly one, and will mark me for life; but + then, as I am not a lady to wear short sleeves, it does not + signify. I was much disappointed this morning to hear from + Colonel Bevin, who came out to see me, that Napier had been + through our camp this morning, not knowing I was here! He is + in Cawnpore, and the doctor wont let me go and see him + to-day, and we march on towards Lucknow to-morrow. It will + be some days yet before the whole force is collected at + Alumbagh. Captain Peel has just gone by with his sailors and + their enormous ship-guns, 68-pounders! I have little doubt + but that Lucknow will be in our hands before another month + is over; and then I shall do my utmost to get my regiment + sent back to Umbala to be formed and drilled, which it wants + badly. I only wonder it does as well as it is. I could + hardly take any other appointment, or even go home, until I + had completed this task; and I like my regiment, and what is + even more to the purpose, the regiment likes me, and would + follow me any and everywhere, I do believe. + + CAMP, OONAO, _February 13th_.--Only a short letter to-day, + as I have been writing a right-handed one to "O.," to + satisfy the dear anxious hearts at home. I am able to use my + arm, but very gently, and shall ride to-morrow. Oh, the + pleasure of feeling myself on the outside of a horse again! + + _February 14th._--Your telegram has been going the rounds + of all the camps before it found me out. Indeed, you must + not be anxious on my account, or listen to the wild reports + which are always rife. Be sure, if anything were amiss, + there are plenty of our friends here to send you the truth. + I could not dream of your coming to Cawnpore. I would not + hear of it even at Futtehgurh, for, though your nursing and + presence would be infinitely precious to me, a camp is no + fit place for you. I am, indeed, going on wonderfully, and + but for the attack of inflammation I spoke of, and which + turned out to be erysipelas, I should have been quite well + before this; and as it is, I am actually nearer to a total + cure than the men (Sikhs even) who were wounded the same + day. My abstinence from spirit-drinking has stood me in good + stead. + + _February 15th._--No letters again to-day! I wish the + Commander-in-Chief would come out from Cawnpore, and there + would be some chance of better postal duty. He is said to be + waiting until the convoy of ladies from Agra has passed + down, lest anything should occur to disturb the road where + he had crossed into Oude with the army,--a not unlikely + thing to happen. I have just seen a notice of my birth, + parentage, and education, and services, in the _Illustrated + News_, as also Seaton's account of the capture of the + Princes. Strange to say, the former is not wrong or + exaggerated in any principal point. The latter is also in + the _Evening Mail_, and I have the honor of appearing in big + print in the leading article. I see also a letter signed "A + Civilian;" not a bad _resume_ in its way. I can cock and + fire a pistol with the right hand, and am constantly working + the arm about to prevent its growing stiff; and I want to + show how much the _will_ has to do with getting over these + things. + + OONAO, _February 16th_.--I have this morning succeeded in + exhuming four letters from the bottom of about a + hundred-weight of correspondence addressed to all parts of + the world; the bag was sent up here in the night for people + to find their letters as they could. Mine have made me so + happy. This has been a red-letter day too, for I have at + last seen our friend Napier. He rode out here with Sir + Colin, and I need not say how thoroughly delighted I was to + see him once more. He is looking better but older than when + we parted, but his charming, affectionate manner is as nice + as ever. God bless him! I do love him dearly, as if he were + indeed my born brother. A note from him arrived while he was + here; it had been three days going ten miles! Sir Colin was + most kind and cordial, and prophesies I shall soon be + Lieut.-Colonel. I told him I feared there was small hope of + that, unless my majority could be counted as for the Punjaub + campaign, as Lord Dalhousie promised, but that it had not + been put on record. He immediately said, "Oh, I'll do that + with the greatest pleasure; let me have a memorandum of your + services, and I'll do all I can for you, and I hope soon to + shake hands with you as Lieut.-Colonel, C. B., and Victoria + Cross to boot." I confess I liked this, because it was + spontaneous; it is not the first time I have heard a whisper + about the Victoria Cross, and I confess I do care most for + this; I would rather have it than be made a duke. My arm is + going on admirably, and you may be quite satisfied about me + now I am near our friend; he will always do what is kind, + that we may be quite sure of, and all that is best and + tenderest too, where you or I are concerned. I shall try to + get away immediately after Lucknow is taken, but I fear + every man may be needed for some time, even after that + much-desired event takes place. + + CAMP, OONAO, _February 17th_.--I grieve deeply at your + anxiety, and can scarcely understand your "terror at the + very name of Cawnpore and Lucknow," except for what has + passed. I am not nearly so much exposed to peril here as at + Delhi; the place, too, and time of year are more healthy; so + continue to "hope on," bravely now as ever, until the end, + which must be very soon.... I am going to spend to-morrow in + Cawnpore with Napier, and have a big talk. The delay in the + brevet is an accident, _not_ owing to the home authorities. + It has gone home now, and my name is in it, Sir Colin told + me. + + CAWNPORE, _February 19th_.--I shall ride back to Oonao early + to-morrow morning; the temptation of Napier's society was + irresistible; it is such a pleasure to see him again. There + will be no move hence until the 23d, I think, though it is + getting rapidly hot in this hateful place; but on the other + side the river it is cool, and Lucknow is even more so, I + hear. Osborn Wilkinson has been here, and has gone on + towards Alumbagh. I shall try and get him for my regiment, + if but to do duty; he is a fine fellow and thorough soldier. + + OONAO, _February 20th_.--I rode out from Cawnpore this + morning; Colonels Napier and Lugard accompanying me for some + miles,--the latter only arrived yesterday; he is to command + a division as Brigadier-General, I am glad to say. Our + friend is nicer than ever, and looking well. + + _February 21st._--As far as I can learn, we (_i. e._, my + Horse) shall have but little to do with the actual capture + or assault of Lucknow, and I fancy our duty will be + protecting the flanks and rear of the army from incursions + of the enemy's cavalry, &c. General Lugard came out this + morning to take the command. I hope Napier will soon follow. + I am very anxious to get on and get the affair over. + + _February 22d._--There is not a particle of news of any + kind. I had an attack of fever last night, but it is gone + this morning, and I am all right again; the wound on my arm + is quite closed, and the last bandage discarded; the thumb + is still very stiff, and the joint much enlarged. My wounds + have healed with unprecedented rapidity; and I cannot be + sufficiently grateful that I am so soon enabled to return to + my duty. Dear Douglas Seaton has been very ill again, and + unable to leave England, as he intended, poor fellow. I + believe half his illness is caused by fretting at being away + from his regiment now it is in the field; but he never could + have stood the trial of those months before Delhi. The + Commander-in-Chief tells me that, despairing of getting the + list of recommendations for Delhi from India, the Duke of + Cambridge is making out a list himself from the despatches, + to be corrected hereafter if any omissions occur. The next + mail may, therefore, make me a Major, as I was mentioned + even in Wilson's despatches. God grant I may be able to get + home; that is my great desire now. + + _February 23d._--It is midnight, and we march for Alumbagh + at 4 A. M.; so I write a line at once to say I am doing + well, and will send a telegram if anything occurs, which I + do not expect yet. There has been a big fight, within a few + miles of us, between the force under General Hope Grant and + the rebels, and there was a bigger on Sunday at Lucknow with + Sir James Outram's force. I have got hold of a strip of + newspaper this morning, with Brigadier Hope's Shumshabad + despatch, in which I figure so prominently that I am + inclined to indorse it "Hope told a flattering tale," and + send it home to the dear girls. The convoy arrived this + morning (_i. e._, the ladies, &c.) from Agra, so I hope the + Chief will move soon. I was out all the morning with General + Lugard, and was surprised to find how hot the weather is + getting (in the sun) even here; but I am quite well--quite. + +In a letter of this date to the Chaplain of the Lawrence Asylum, he +says:-- + + ... I have only to add that in gratitude for the many and + unspeakable mercies which I have received during the past + year, and also as a token of most affectionate regret for + Sir H. Lawrence, I shall thank you to note the increase of + my subscription to the asylum to 100 rupees per annum. + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[59] So he did, but ultimately gave himself up, and was hanged by the +authorities in Delhi.--_Ed._ + +[60] Referring to his wife's almost miraculous escape, when the horse +on which she was riding fell over a precipice and was killed.--_Ed._ + +[61] A letter from Delhi, in October, says:-- + +"The corps raised by that very gallant officer, Captain Hodson, is +composed, more than anything we have hitherto had, of the old sirdars +and soldiers of Runjeet Singh's time, in consequence of which, and the +skill of their commander, they are already an extremely efficient +corps. + +"I was talking this morning to a very independent looking Resaldar, +who seemed to be treated by his men much more as they do a European +officer than is ever seen in our service, and who bore himself as the +inferior of no one, and I found that he had been long a colonel of +artillery in Runjeet Singh's service, and very openly went through the +part he had taken against us in the revolt of 1849." + +[62] _From Despatch from_ COLONEL T. SEATON, C. B., _to_ MAJOR-GENERAL +PENNY, _Commanding at Delhi_. + + "KHASGUNGE, _Dec. 15th, 1857_. + + "The General will see by the list of casualties, that + Captain Hodson's newly raised body of Horse was not + backward, and rendered excellent service. It could not do + less under its distinguished commander, whom I beg + particularly to mention to the Major-General, as having on + every possible occasion rendered me the most efficient + service, whether in gaining information, reconnoitring the + country, or leading his regiment." + +[63] _Extract from a Despatch from_ LIEUTENANT-COLONEL T. SEATON, +_dated_ + + "PUTTIALEE, _Dec. 18th, 1857_. + + "After the action at Gungeree I specially mentioned Captain + Hodson and his regiment. I can but repeat what I then said, + and beg that the Major-General will be good enough to bring + this officer, and his great and important services, to the + special notice of the Commander-in-Chief." + +[64] The following extract from a private letter of an artillery +officer, describing the state of the roads, will give some notion of +the danger of this ride:-- + + "MYNPOOREE, _December 29th_. + + "Since the 20th of October, no letters have passed this + road. The 'Kossids,' whose trade it is to carry letters + through an enemy's country, would not and could not do it, + and no wonder. At one place we saw a poor brute who had gone + from us with a letter to the Chief, and had been caught by + the rebels. He was hanging by the heels, had his nose cut + off, had been made a target of, and roasted alive. + + "Pleasant fellows, these rebels, and worthy of all + consideration." + + +[65] Lieutenant R. Mitford, 3d Bengal Fusileers, now Adjutant of +Hodson's Horse and V. C. + +[66] Mr. Charles Raikes, in his interesting _Notes on the Revolt_, p. +109, says: "At night I warned Mr. Power for duty, to go out with the +Brigade. I found it difficult to convince him that 2,000 men, quietly +slumbering around, would, in the course of an half hour, be under +arms, and on the march to attack the enemy. Scarce a creature in the +camp, save General Mansfield, Adrian Hope, Hodson, and I, knew the +plans of the Commander-in-Chief. The men had gone to bed as usual, +when quietly orders were issued, and by half-past ten, Hope, with his +Brigade, was on his march." He then gives several amusing native +accounts of the action at Shumshabad, and afterwards adds,--"Rode to +see Hodson; he is much cut up about Macdowell's loss, but treats his +own wounds very lightly. Being in his sword arm, we shall lose his +invaluable services for a time." + +[67] Charles Theophilus Metcalfe, 2nd son of the late James Macdowell, +Esq., of Bengal Medical Service, born 29th October, 1829, appointed to +Honorable East India Company's Service, 1846. Served in Punjaub +campaign of 1848-9, including passage of Chenab at Ramnuggur, and +battles of Chillianwallah and Goojerat, in which he carried the colors +of his regiment, 2d Bengal European Fusileers (medal and clasp). +Served in Burmah, marched with his regiment to Delhi, and served with +it in various engagements, till in August he was appointed second in +command of Hodson's Horse. + +"This excellent officer, who was Captain Hodson's second in command, +and right-hand man, sunk under his wound, to the sorrow of all who +knew his rare value as a soldier."--Raikes's _Notes_. + +[68] His father's old parish. + + + + +CONCLUDING CHAPTER. + + ALUMBAGH, LUCKNOW.--THE BEGUM'S PALACE.--BANKS'S HOUSE.--THE + SOLDIER'S DEATH.--NOTICES.--CONCLUDING REMARKS. + + + _To his Wife._ + + CAMP, ALUMBAGH, NEAR LUCKNOW, _February 24th_. + + We arrived here last night at dusk, after a terribly dusty + march of thirty-six miles. To-day we had a bit of a fight. + The Pandies, ignorant of the reinforcements which had + arrived, had as usual come round one flank of the camp, so + we moved out and caught them as they were trying to get back + again, and took two of their guns. By "we," I mean my own + men and the Military Train men from home. Young Gough, my + adjutant, was wounded, and had his horse shot. I was luckily + in the way, or it would have gone worse with him;[69] my own + horse too (pretty "Child of the Desert") was wounded, and I + was obliged to mount a sowar's horse. Gough will be laid up + for a month, I fear; it is a flesh wound in the thigh. I do + not think Master Pandy will try the same trick again. We + have been out so long that there is time for no more to-day + than this assurance of my safety. + + + ALUMBAGH, _February 25th_.--I have been calling on Sir James + Outram this morning, and had a most pleasant interview; the + brave old warrior greeted me most cordially, professing his + satisfaction at having _at last_ met one of whom he had + heard so much, &c. &c. The pleasure was certainly mutual, + for I have long wished to meet _him_. He made many inquiries + about you also, and asked whether you had not been in the + hills during the panic, and helped the refugees, &c. How + proudly I could answer all his praise in the affirmative. He + also asked my opinion of Lord William's administration, and + I was glad of the opportunity to testify in his favor. + Altogether this good old soldier's compliments were pleasing + to me, particularly as he was not one of those who in my + time of trouble passed me by on the other side. + + The enemy is quite quiet to-day. I fancy we were too much + for his philosophy yesterday. Fancy the Queen Regnant coming + out on an elephant to meet us, to encourage her wavering + followers! I wish the Chief would make haste and finish this + business, it is getting cruelly hot already. + + _27th._--All quiet still with the enemy. A packet of letters + has arrived, and brought me all the comfort I am capable of + receiving in this torturing absence; would it were over! I + hear the Chief has crossed the Ganges and is coming on here. + I believe we had some [Greek: kudos] for the affair of the + 25th, though beyond being exposed to a very galling fire, I + did not think much of it myself. Gough's wound is a serious + misfortune to me just now; a gallant, go-a-head boy like him + is not to be easily replaced, any more than poor Mac is. I + myself am laid up with a sore leg; I would not nurse it at + first, and now it is so painful I cannot mount my horse or + even stand without pain, so I shall go into the next + scrimmage on an elephant! Dr. Brougham, however, says it + will be well in four or five days. I did not know Greville + was going home so soon, I hoped to have shaken him by the + _sain_ hand once more before we parted for so long. + + ALUMBAGH, _1st March_.--Nothing of public importance is + occurring. I am still unable to ride, so I do regimental + work. I dined with Sir J. Outram (he is the General + commanding here) and with Colonel Haggart, 7th Hussars, last + night; the former is quite affectionate in his manner to me. + He would quite charm you, and were I not out of love with + vanity, would spoil me; but I confess the respectful homage + of the soldiers is pleasanter to my spirit than the praise + of great men. I study to be quiet and do my own business + without elation and pride, satisfied with the testimony of + my own conscience that I strive to do my duty. + + _March 2d._--The Commander-in-Chief arrived with a large + part of the force this morning, marched straight through our + camp, and _at_ the enemy (who of course ran away), and + occupied the Dilkoosha, a large garden-house and park near + the city. My unfortunate leg prevented my sharing in the + fray, I grieve to say, and I am actually in a fright lest he + (the Chief) should take Lucknow before I am able to ride! + + ALUMBAGH, _March 6th_.--I had time for but the merest line + yesterday, written from Dilkoosha, where the + Commander-in-Chief is encamped, and whither we were + erroneously brought yesterday to return here to-day. I had a + long talk with Sir Colin, who was even more than commonly + kind and cordial. I am not very well, I am sorry to say; + this leg troubles me, and is the effect of the erysipelas + which attacked my arm in consequence of the wounds closing + too quickly. The truth is that I lost about a pound and a + half of blood when I was wounded, and having had two slight + bouts of fever since, I am not so strong as I would be; + however, I am getting on, and am dosed with steel, quinine, + and port wine _ad lib_. My arm is pretty well, but the wound + opened again partially after the 25th, and I have been + obliged to submit to bandages, &c.; still I hope three or + four days will set me all right again, though I fear the arm + will never be quite straight again, or the thumb quite + flexible. I shall have to go home for rest to my body, if + not for comfort to my heart. I have seen Osborn Wilkinson; + he is as nice as possible, and he is now Deputy Assistant + Quartermaster-General to the Cavalry Brigade, to which my + Horse is attached, so I hope to see more of him than of + late. I breakfasted yesterday at head-quarters with Napier, + and grieved to see that he looked worn and troubled. I fear + his health is very precarious. + + CAMP, NEAR LUCKNOW, _March 6th_.--... I grieve that you + should be anxious on my account; the same merciful + Providence which has so wonderfully preserved us both + through so many and great dangers, will, I earnestly pray, + continue the same gracious guardianship; yet I strive to be + prepared for all.... + + I had to march again this morning; a message from Sir Colin + last night to the Brigadier having directed him to put me in + charge of the line of communications with Jellalabad, the + Alumbagh, and his camp. So I had to bring my men up here, + half-way between the two camps, and to make arrangements for + insuring the safety of the roads, and protecting the convoys + on which the existence of the army depends. The worst part + of it is I cannot ride, and have had, for the first time in + my life, to do outpost duty in a dog-cart! _driving_ across + country to post videttes and picquettes, &c. What with this + continued movement and the rest which I am _compelled_ to + take recumbent, I have had no time for writing as I fain + would do. I have heard from Reginald; he is so earnest in + his wish to do duty with my regiment, that I have asked for + him. May God preserve the dear boy from all evil! I shall + never forgive myself if harm comes to him. There is no + decided move at present; the net is gradually closing round + the enemy, some of the Goorkhas and Brigadier Frank's column + having already arrived. You must not expect more than a + Majority for me yet, though I have good reason to believe + that more will come. + + _March 8th._--I went up myself to-day to the head-quarters' + camp, to look for letters and see our friend, but failed in + both; but I breakfasted and had a long chat with that + pleasantest of persons, Lugard, now Sir Edward, and while + there I had a letter from Norman to say that Reginald had + been appointed to do duty with my Horse. I can but think he + is too young; but if he must see hard service so early, + better with me than elsewhere. God grant it may be for his + good. I am looking for the end with an eager longing for + rest which I cannot control. Dear Sir Henry used to say I + was ambitious, and I know I was proud and thirsty of + success; but now all desires for the future settle down into + the one thought of home. + + _March 9th._--I grieve that report should cause you fear and + anxiety whenever there has been a fight, particularly as the + chances are against my being in it. You should remember that + our force extends now round three sides nearly of Lucknow. + The extreme right of our position, or rather camps, being at + least nine miles from the left; so that engagements occur at + one part which those at the other never perhaps hear of + till next day! This was the case with the Dilkoosha affair. + The Chief passed our camp on the left, moved on some miles, + and occupied "Dilkoosha" (a fine palace, three stories + high), and the ground up to the banks of the Goomtee, almost + without opposition. I was never within miles of him. Indeed, + I have not been on horseback since the 25th, as I am forced + to save myself for emergencies. If anything important + occurs, be sure I will send a telegram somehow. I have + written to Reginald, and sent him a copy of the General + Order appointing him to do duty with my regiment. I have + also got a Lieutenant Meecham, of the Madras army,--a great + artist and good-looking fellow, and, what is much more to my + purpose, a fine soldier I believe. I have also asked for + young Blackburne, whom you may remember in the 20th Native + Infantry at Peshawur,--a friend of Edward Loyd's. He is much + "come out" since then. I do hope Hugh Gough will soon be + well; I do ill without such a dashing fine fellow. + + In the affair of the 25th we were leading, and took the + guns,--_i. e._, we fairly captured one, and drove the enemy + away from the other, and kept them at bay until the "train" + came up and secured it. I was not altogether satisfied with + my men in this part of the affair. They hesitated, and let + me go ahead unsupported except by Nihal Singh; old Mahommed + Reza Khan, and one or two others, with Gough, being near. + The consequence was that the enemy concentrated their fire + on our little party. However, the Europeans of the Military + Train hesitated to do what I wanted _my_ men to do, and they + behaved very well immediately afterwards. There has been a + great fuss about the matter; Sir Colin having taken great + and very just offence at its being reported to him that the + cavalry were "led" by Colonel ----, a staff-officer.... He + got wounded, and then was officially reported to have "led + the cavalry," whereas we had Brigadier Campbell (a capital + officer), and Colonel Haggart, of the 7th Hussars, present, + besides the officers commanding regiments, "quorum pars + fui." Sir Colin denounced Colonel ----'s "leading" as "an + insufferable impertinence," called me up, and asked me + before them all, "Were you present with your regiment on the + 25th?" and on my saying, "Yes," he cried out, "Now, look + here; look at my friend Hodson here, does _he_ look like a + man that needs 'leading?' Is that a man likely to want + 'leading?' I should like to see the fellow who'd presume to + talk of 'leading' _that_ man!" pointing to me, and so forth. + I nearly went into convulsions; it was _such_ a scene.... + + The Martiniere was taken to-day without loss except poor + Captain Peel, who, I grieve to say, is wounded. + + _March 10th._--The mail is come with my Majority. The brevet + has given general dissatisfaction. Some of the double honors + are marvellous; but it should be remembered that these + promotions are given _sponte sua_ by the home authorities, + no recommendations having gone from hence till lately. I am + content myself, having no interest. It proves they perceive + I have done something, or I should not have this beginning; + and it is satisfactory to find that it is universally + considered that I have been shabbily used. Better this by + far than to have people lifting up their eyes and saying I + had got too much! Inglis is justly rewarded, and some + others. I dare say more will come with time. I hope devoutly + that when Lucknow falls I shall be released. We shall know + in a few days,--for even while I write Lucknow seems to be + "falling" fast. Immense progress was made yesterday, with + not more loss than some 18 or 20 wounded, and I hear to-day + they are going ahead again. Pandy has quite given up + fighting, except pot-shots under cover, and runs at the very + sight of troops advancing. I stood on the top of the + Dilkoosha palace yesterday, and watched the capture of as + strong a position as men could wish for (which at Delhi + would have cost us hundreds) without the enemy making a + single struggle or firing a shot. At this rate Lucknow will + soon be in our hands. We (of the cavalry) are kept on the + _qui vive_ watching the southern outlets from the town to + prevent escape, and I expect to see Lucknow taken without + being under fire again. Well, it must be confessed that I + have had my share of the dangers of the war, and whether I + receive honors or not, I have the testimony of my own + conscience that I have done one man's work towards the + restoration of our power in India.... I have been occupied + to-day in trying to get the Victoria Cross for the two + Goughs. Hugh certainly ought to have it.[70] + + _March 11th._--Just as I sit down to write comes an order to + move our camp towards Alumbagh again; Jung Bahadoor having + at last arrived with his army and taken up ground between me + and the enemy.... If anything occurs, I will get Colonel + Napier or Norman to send you a service telegram.... + +This was the last letter which my brother wrote. Having given +directions to his Adjutant, Lieutenant Gough, he said he would ride on +and look out a nice spot for their new camping-ground, and be back in +time to march with them. On his way he heard firing, and riding +forward, found that the Begum's Palace was to be attacked. He +immediately rode to the place, and finding his friend Brigadier Napier +directing the attack, said laughingly, "I am come to take care of you; +you have no business to go to work without me to look after you." The +assault was successful.[71] He entered the breach with General Napier +and several others. In a few minutes they were separated in the +_melee_, and General Napier saw nothing more of him till he was sent +for to him "dangerously wounded." The surgeon of his regiment gives +the following account:-- + + "We struck our tents and were saddled, waiting for him till + it became so dark that we were forced to go without him, and + reached our ground after sunset. I had gone to the + post-office and was five minutes behind the regiment. When I + came up, I found that Hodson's orderly had come in great + haste, saying that his master had sent for me, but with no + other message. He said that his master had been hit when + advancing with the troops on the Begum's Kotee on foot. + + "I mounted and rode off with him at once. From the darkness + of the night and the difficulty of passing the Goorkah + sentries, I did not get to Dilkooshah till 9 P. M. There no + one knew where he was. I then went on to the artillery mess + and learnt that he was in Banks's House which I reached + about 10 P. M. I found him in a dooly and Dr. Sutherland + with him, whom I at once relieved, and learnt the following + particulars from him and from the orderly who remained with + Hodson, and who had been by his side when hit. He had + arrived at Banks's House just as the party going to attack + the Begum's Palace were starting, and fell in with them. The + place had been taken before he was wounded. When the + soldiers were searching for concealed Sepoys in the + court-yard and buildings adjoining, he said to his orderly, + 'I wonder if any of the rascals are in there.' He turned the + angle of the passage; looked into a dark room, which was + full of Sepoys; a shot was fired from inside. He staggered + back some paces and then fell. A party of Highlanders, + hearing who had been hit, rushed into the room and bayoneted + every man there. + + "The orderly, a large powerful Sikh, carried him in his arms + out of danger, and got a dooly and brought him back to + Banks's House, where his wound was looked to and dressed. + + "He was shot through the right side of the chest, in the + region of the liver, the ball entering in front and going + out behind. There had been profuse bleeding, and I saw that + the wound was most likely mortal. + + "He was very glad to see me, and began talking of his wound, + which he thought himself was mortal. I lay beside him on the + ground all night, holding his hand, on account of the great + pain he suffered. He was very weak when I arrived, but by + means of stimulants rallied wonderfully, and slept for an + hour or two during the night. At daylight he was much + better, his hands were warm and his pulse good, and I had + hopes that, if the bleeding, which had ceased, did not + return, he might recover. He drank two cups of tea, and said + he felt very well. His account of his being wounded agreed + with the orderly's. + + "About 9 A. M. I had the dooly lifted into a room, which I + had had cleared out, where he was much quieter. At 10 A. M., + however, bleeding came on again profusely, and he rapidly + became worse. I told him that recovery was impossible. He + then sent for General Napier, to whom he gave directions + about his property and messages to his wife. After this he + rapidly sank, though he remained sensible and was able to + speak till a quarter past one, when he became too weak; and + at twenty-five minutes past one died. + + "His orderly[72] actually cried over him, he was so attached + to him. + + "He was buried that evening by the Rev. Dr. Smith. The + Commander-in-Chief and his staff were present." + +General Napier says, in a letter to Mrs. Hodson:-- + + "I regret bitterly now, that I did not insist on your dear + husband going back, but you know how impossible it was to + check his dauntless spirit." + +He and others who were present give the following particulars:-- + + ... "He lay on his bed of mortal agony and met death with + the same calm composure which so much distinguished him on + the field of battle. He was quite conscious and peaceful, + occasionally uttering a sentence:-- + + "'My poor wife,' 'My poor sisters.' + + "'I should have liked to see the end of the campaign and + gone home to the dear ones once more, but it was so + ordered.' + + "'It is hard to leave the world just now, when success is so + near, but God's will be done.' + + "'Bear witness for me that I have tried to do my duty to + man. May God forgive my sins for Christ's sake.' 'I go to my + Father.' + + "'My love to my wife; tell her my last thoughts were of + her.' 'Lord, receive my soul.' + + "These were his last words, and, without a sigh or struggle, + his pure and noble spirit took its flight." + +Thus, on the 12th of March, 1858, in his thirty-seventh year, closed +the earthly career of one of the best and bravest of England's sons, +one of her truest heroes, of whom it may be said,--"Quanquam medio in +spatio integrae aetatis ereptus, quantum ad gloriam longissimum aevum +peregit." + +Great and irreparable as was his loss to his family and his friends, +as a husband, a brother, and a friend, I believe that, at the +particular juncture at which he was taken away, it was still greater, +as a soldier, to his country. It would be difficult to overestimate +the value of the services which he might have rendered, if spared, in +the pacifying of Oude after the capture of Lucknow, or the influence +which he might have had on the fortunes of the war. One of those best +qualified to judge declared, that "Hodson with his regiment would have +been worth 10,000 men." His peculiar qualifications for Asiatic +warfare would have found an appropriate field for their display. + +It is unnecessary, however, for me to attempt to pronounce his +eulogium. This has been done by those more capable of forming an +estimate of his rare excellence as a soldier, and of doing it justice +by their words. + +Sir Colin Campbell, in a letter of condolence to his widow, thus +expressed himself:-- + + "MARTINIERE, _March 13, 1858_. + + "MADAM,--It is with a sentiment of profound regret that I am + compelled to address you for the purpose of communicating + the sad news that your gallant and distinguished husband, + Major Hodson, received a mortal wound from a bullet on the + 11th instant. He unfortunately accompanied his friend + Brigadier Napier, commanding Engineers in the successful + attack on the Begum's Palace. The whole army, which admired + his talents, his bravery, and his military skill, deplores + his loss, and sympathizes with you in your irreparable + bereavement. I attended your husband's funeral yesterday + evening, in order to show what respect I could to the memory + of one of the most brilliant officers under my command. + + (Signed) + "C. CAMPBELL, + "_Com.-in-Chief in East Indies_." + +An officer who was present at the funeral says:-- + + "When the part of the service came where the body is lowered + into the grave, all the old warrior's courage and + self-possession could no longer control the + tears,--undeniable evidence of what he felt. 'I have lost + one of the finest officers in the army,' was his remark to + General Napier." + +Even Sir John Lawrence, no friendly judge, pronounced him in an +official paper to be-- + + "One of the ablest, most active, and bravest soldiers who + have fallen in the present war." + +Sir R. Montgomery says:-- + + "I look round and can find no one like him. Many men are as + brave, many possess as much talent, many are as cool and + accurate in judgment, but not one combines all these + qualifications as he did." + +I shall best give an idea of the universal feeling of regret awakened +at the tidings of his death by subjoining a few extracts from the +public press at home and abroad, and from private letters. The Bombay +correspondent of the _Times_, after detailing the assault on the +Begum's Palace, wrote thus:-- + + "At this point fell, mortally wounded, Hodson of the 1st + Bengal Fusileers; Hodson of Hodson's Horse; Hodson, the + captor of the King of Delhi and the princes of his house. + Few of the many losses that have occurred during the + operations consequent upon the mutinies, have caused such + universal regret throughout India as the death of this + excellent officer; and among those in England who have read + of and admired his exploits, not only his comrades of the + Sikh battle-fields, but many an old friend at Rugby or at + Trinity will mourn that his career has been thus early + closed." + +The _Times_, in a leading article, thus announced his death:-- + + "The country will receive with lively regret the news that + the gallant Major Hodson, who has given his name to an + invincible and almost ubiquitous body of cavalry, was killed + in the attack on Lucknow. Major Hodson has been from the + very beginning of this war fighting everywhere and against + any odds with all the spirit of a Paladin of old. His most + remarkable exploit, the capture of the King of Delhi and his + two sons, astonished the world by its courage and coolness. + Hodson was, indeed, a man who, from his romantic daring and + his knowledge of the Asiatic character, was able to beat the + natives at their own weapons. We could better have spared an + older and more highly placed officer." + +The following notice appeared in a Bombay paper:-- + + "From a Lucknow letter which we publish to-day our readers + will learn, with sorrow and regret, that that most able and + gallant officer, Captain Hodson, who has distinguished + himself on so many occasions since the breaking out of the + rebellion, and whose services have been of so brilliant and + valuable a character, has been killed at Lucknow. As a + leader of Irregular Horse, or indeed as a soldier of any of + the non-scientific forces, Captain Hodson was almost + without an equal. He was one of those squadron leaders which + the Indian army can alone rear up. There are few men who + would have managed the capture of the ex-King of Delhi as + this departed hero did. On that occasion his force was small + compared to that he had to cope with; but the determined + daring of the man made up for the disparity, and the old + King came out of his fortification--for a strong + fortification it was--and surrendered. So also with the + capture of the King's sons, who also surrendered themselves, + but whom Hodson found rescued when he reached them, after + having completed the disarming of their band. That was a + moment to test a man. But he of whom we write was equal to + the emergency. The carts in which the princes were, were + retaken immediately. Still the aspect of the armed Mahomedan + crowd around--growing every moment more numerous--was dark + and threatening. It was a situation which required prompt + decision, and promptly did the British leader decide. He saw + that it was necessary that his prisoners should die, and + resolved himself to become their executioner: a wise + resolve, for, probably, had he asked one of his own + Mahomedan troopers to kill the sons of the Mogul, a refusal + would have followed, and that refusal might have been acted + up to by all. He adopted the wiser course, harangued his + men, ordered the prisoners to take off their robes in the + cart, and shot them with his own hand. Had the prisoners + been allowed to leave the cart, their bodies would have been + left behind; for to touch them would, by the troopers, have + been considered defilement, and, left behind, they might + have been fanatically paraded through the country as an + incitement to a fresh rising. Besides, it was necessary that + their remains should be exposed at the Kotwallie in Delhi + with something of the indignity they themselves had caused + to be inflicted on the murdered victims of the 11th of May." + +Another published a letter with this sentence:-- + + "Hodson, splendid fellow, died the following day, most + deeply regretted by all ranks in his regiment. He indeed was + a brave soldier, a clever and truly esteemed commander. May + we not say he was one of the flowers of the 'old Europeans,' + and an ornament to the Bengal army?" + +The writer (in _Blackwood's Magazine_) of a series of papers on the +1st Fusileers, says:-- + + "Then fell one of the bravest in the Indian army, an officer + whose name has been brought too often before the public by + those in high command to need my humble word in praise. + There was not a man before Delhi who did not know Hodson; + always active, always cheery, it did one's heart good to + look at his face, when all felt how critical was our + position. Ask any soldier who was the bravest man before + Delhi, who most in the saddle, who foremost? and nine out of + ten in the Infantry will tell you Hodson, in the Artillery + as many will name Tombs. + + "I once heard one of the Fusileers say, 'Whenever I sees + Captain Hodson go out, I always prays for him, for he is + sure to be in danger.' Yet it was not only in the field that + Hodson was to be valued, his head was as active as his hand + was strong, and I feel sure, when we who knew him heard of + his death, not one but felt that there was a vacancy indeed + in our ranks." + +The _Times_ correspondent, (Mr. Russell,) in his letter of March 13th, +writes:-- + + "When I returned to head-quarters' camp this evening, I + found that poor Hodson had died the previous day, and been + buried the same evening. + + "He was a zealous and accomplished officer, of great + bravery, ability, and determination, an excellent judge of + the native character, of a humane and clement disposition, + but firm in the infliction of deserved punishment. + + "The last time I saw him alive he expressed a decided + opinion that Government must resort to an amnesty, or be + prepared for a long continuance of disturbances." + +From the _Delhi Gazette_:-- + + "He was a perfect gentleman, an accomplished scholar, and we + need scarcely add, (what our columns have so often + recorded,) one of the most brilliant soldiers in this or any + other army. His death is not only a severe family + affliction, but a national calamity, and it will be long + before the name of the capturer of the King and princes of + Delhi will cease to be mentioned with honor, and remembered + with regret." + +From private letters of condolence, which would fill a volume, I +select a few passages, in which the writers seem to have seized with +great felicity upon some of the more remarkable features in my +brother's character and actions. + + "It is hard to lose one upon whom all eyes were fixed, and + whose noble qualities seemed so certain of recognition, and + of speedy advancement to such employments as his fine + natural abilities well fitted him to discharge. + + "The very presence of such a man in India was an element of + power apart from all official rank, and he could ill be + spared from among the very few who have learnt to + impersonate in themselves the power of the English nation, + and to let the natives of India feel the irresistible + character of that power. You must have watched him so + anxiously and so proudly that, though thousands of us have + done the same, none can approach the measure of your sorrow + or mourn as you that he can confer no more honor on your + name, but that the opportunities of the future must be + reaped by other and less capable hands. + + "I cannot feel easy without expressing to you the great + grief and consternation with which I read the account of + your brother's death. Certainly it would have been little + less than miraculous if, being what he was, he had lived out + this war. And yet I, for one, had always cherished a hope + that I might have seen once more with my own eyes so noble + and gallant a soldier. + + "There is, after all, something about skilful courage which + draws the heart to itself more than eloquence, or learning, + or anything else, and your brother seems to have been endued + with this almost more than any living Englishman, brave as + our countrymen are." + + * * * * * + + "Closely have I watched, during these last few sad months, + the career of that brave brother of yours. I could estimate + his bold and self-sacrificing courage, and knowing as I did + the sort of people over whom he had acquired such perfect + sway, I knew how much a clear and commanding intellect must + have been called into exercise, to aid a strong and devoted + heart. What victims has Lucknow offered up to the fiendish + treachery of those ungrateful men--Lawrence! Havelock! and + Hodson!" + + * * * * * + + "My grief is not for him; he had done his work in that + station of life in which God had placed him, nobly, + heartily, and as in the sight of God (would that we all did + our work in half such a Christian spirit); but for you all, + who were looking forward to seeing him again, crowned with + the honors he had so hardly won. Well, it has pleased God + that this was not to be; but there is a good hope, more than + a hope, that a reward of a higher kind is his." + +From one who had known him in India:-- + + "From the love and esteem I bore your brother, you will, I + feel sure, allow me to write and express, however + imperfectly words can do it, my deep and heartfelt sympathy + with you and your sisters under this heavy blow. Our + acquaintance was not of long standing, but had rapidly + ripened into intimacy, and I look back to the days spent in + his society as amongst my happiest in India. His very + presence was sunshine. + + "Of my admiration for his talents, and the service he + rendered his country, it would be impertinent to + speak,--they are of public note; but of the tender + sympathies, the ready advice, the forgetfulness of self, and + the ever-mindfulness of others, I may testify. His was, + indeed, a rare and beautiful character, and the better he + was known the more he could not fail to be appreciated." + +I will add one more letter from General Johnstone, which will show +that even to the last my brother was pursued by the same jealousy and +malignity which had caused him so much suffering in former years:-- + + "He was too noble to pass through the world without + detractors. The ambitious and brave envied him, because the + brilliancy of his acts put theirs in the shade; I mean, + those not possessed of the disinterestedness of Christians. + + "The mean and despicable hated him, because they quailed + before the eagle eye that could endure neither dishonesty + nor cowardice. Their base slanders were in whispers during + his life; now that his gallant spirit is gone, they come + forward in unblushing malignity. I heard the whispers only; + my indignation at learning the baseness with which this true + hero has been treated is beyond all my powers of + expression." + +Some of my readers may be interested in a description of Major +Hodson's personal appearance and manner, given in a letter describing +a visit which he paid the writer a few years previously at Calcutta:-- + + "He was remarkably well made, lithe, and agile; in height + about five feet eleven inches. His hair had slightly receded + from a high and most intellectual forehead, and was light + and curly. His eyes were blue, but animated by a peculiarly + determined, and sometimes even fierce look, which would + change to one of mischievous merriment, for he was keenly + susceptible of the ridiculous, in whatever shape it + presented itself; but usually his look impressed me at once + with that idea of his determination and firmness which have + ever characterized his actions. His nose was inclining to + the aquiline, and the curved, thin nostrils added a look of + defiance in noways counteracted by the compressed lips, + which seemed to denote many an inward struggle between duty + and inclination. These are my impressions of Hodson as I + last saw him; and if you add to this an open, frank manner, + that, _bongre malgre_, impressed you favorably at first + sight with the owner, you will have the charming _ensemble_ + that presides over my recollections of three as happy weeks + as I ever passed." + +As a pendant to this portrait I give another from a lady's pen, drawn +more recently:-- + + "There was an indescribable charm of manner about him, + combining all the gentle playfulness of the boy, the deep + tenderness of the woman, and the vigorous decision of the + soldier. + + "His powers of attraction extended even to animals; and it + was touching to see his large white Persian cat following + him from room to room, escaping from the caresses of others + to nestle by him. I have often watched the pretty creature + as he threw himself, exhausted with the day's work, on an + easy chair or sofa, rubbing himself against his master, + whisking the long white tail against his fair moustache, and + courting the endearments liberally bestowed. Restless with + others, pussy was at rest if established by him. + + "At Delhi there was a wild, shy little kitten, which fled + from every one else, but mewed provokingly whenever he + appeared,--would jump on his knee with all the familiarity + of an old friend. + + "With his horses he had the same power of domestication. + They yielded to the sound of his voice with the instinct + that seemed to convey to all that in him they had found + master and friend. + + "Over the natives that influence seemed almost magic. When + at Umbala, on ten days' leave, in November last, the wounded + and convalescent Guides (his old corps) were all day + straying into the compound simply to 'salaam' the 'Sahib.' + And if, when lingering on the steps, or in front of the + study door, they were questioned what they wanted, their + answer would be, 'Nothing; they liked to look at the Sahib.' + And so they hung about his steps, and watched like so many + faithful dogs. Especially there was an Affghan boy, (he had + once been a slave,) whose very soul seemed bound up in the + master who had rescued him from his degraded position, and + for whom every service seemed light. He would watch his + master's movements with a look of very worship, as if the + ground were not good enough for him to tread. + + "His joyousness of nature made him the most charming + companion. There was a certain quaintness of expression + which gave zest to all he said; and yet there was a + reverence, too, so that, were subjects graver than usual + introduced even by allusion, they at once commanded his + earnest response." + +It will doubtless excite surprise, perchance indignation, that one +whom the Commander-in-Chief pronounced "one of the most brilliant +soldiers under his command,"--one whom all ranks of the army in India +reckoned amongst their bravest and most skilful leaders,--one whom the +popular voice has already enrolled amongst the heroes of the +nation,--one whose name was "known, either in love or fear, by every +native from Calcutta to Cabul,"--should have received, with the +exception of a brevet majority (to which he was entitled for services +in 1849), no mark of his Sovereign's approbation, no recognition of +gallant services and deeds of daring, one tenth part of which would +have covered many of Fortune's favorites with decorations. + +That recognition, however, which was officially withheld, has been +given in a more marked form by the spontaneous expression of the +feelings of his brothers-in-arms. A committee, composed of officers of +the highest eminence, has been formed at Calcutta for the sake of +recording, by some permanent memorial, their admiration of his +gallantry and skill, and it has been determined that it should take +the form of a monument in Lichfield Cathedral. + +Nor will his name be forgotten in India, even by men in office. The +regiment which he raised still is "Hodson's Horse;" and by an order, +published in the _Gazette_ of August 13th, is constituted a brigade, +consisting of the 1st, 2d, and 3d Regiments of "Hodson's Horse." + +I do not know that his warmest friends could desire any more +distinguished testimony to his services. + + * * * * * + +Since these remarks were written, my brother's services have received +a still more public acknowledgment. On the occasion of the vote of +thanks to the Indian Army, on 14th April, 1859, both Lord Derby in the +Upper, and Lord Stanley in the Lower House, mentioned his name in the +most honorable manner. + +Lord Stanley spoke as follows:-- + + "And now, Sir, having paid the tribute that is due to those + who live, it is not fitting that we should pass away + entirely from this subject without recognizing the services + of the dead. (Hear, hear.) Operations like those which have + been carried on for the last eighteen months, could not be + conducted without a great and lamentable loss of life, and + their loss to the public service is not one which can be + measured by any numerical test, because it is always the + best and bravest officers who rush to the front,--who + volunteer for every service of danger or difficulty, who + expose themselves to every risk, and among whom, therefore, + there is necessarily the greatest loss of life. There are + two names which are especially distinguished. The first is + that of Major Hodson, of the Guides, (hear, hear,) who in + his short but brilliant military career displayed every + quality which an officer should possess. (Hear.) Nothing is + more remarkable, in glancing over the biography of Major + Hodson that has just appeared, than the variety of services + in which he was engaged. At one time he displayed his great + personal courage and skill as a swordsman in conflict with + Sikh fanatics; was then transferred to the civil service, in + which he performed his duties as though he had passed his + whole life at the desk, afterwards recruiting and commanding + the corps of Guides, and, lastly, taking part in the + operations before Delhi, volunteering for every enterprise + in which life could be hazarded or glory could be won. He + crowded into the brief space of eleven eventful years the + services and adventures of a long life. He died when his + reward was assured, obtaining only that reward which he most + coveted,--the consciousness of duty done, and the assurance + of enduring military renown. The other name to which I shall + refer is a name which will always be received with feelings + of special and individual interest by this House. No words + of mine can add to the glory attaching to the short but + noble career of Sir W. Peel. (Cheers.) He bore a name which + is inseparably connected with the Parliamentary history of + this country, and it was with feelings of almost personal + pride and of personal grief that a great number of the + members of this House received the accounts of his glorious + achievements and of his untimely end. (Hear, hear.) For his + own reputation he had lived long enough; no future acts + could have enhanced his fame. It is England, it is his + country that deplores his loss." + +I have also much pleasure in stating that "in testimony of the high +sense entertained of the gallant and distinguished services of the +late Brevet-Major W. S. R. Hodson," the Secretary of State for India +in Council has granted a special pension to his widow. + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[69] Lieutenant Gough says, that my brother saved his life by cutting +down a rebel trooper in the very act of spearing him. + +[70] It has been given.--_Ed._ + +[71] At the Begum's Palace the defences were found, after the capture +of the place, so much stronger than could be observed or had been +believed, that the General said, that, had he known what lay before +the assaulting column, he should have hesitated to give the order for +advance. They went at it, however, with a rush,--the 93d Highlanders +and 4th Punjaub Rifles, old comrades at the Secundrabagh,--and carried +it. + +[72] This orderly, Nihal Singh, afterwards travelled to Simla at his +own expense to see Mrs. Hodson, and beg to be taken into her service +and go to England with her. The men of his regiment cried like +children when they heard the news of his death. + + + + + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Twelve Years of a Soldier's Life in +India, by W. S. R. Hodson + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLDIER'S LIFE IN INDIA *** + +***** This file should be named 39448.txt or 39448.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/9/4/4/39448/ + +Produced by Melissa McDaniel and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was +produced from images generously made available by The +Internet Archive) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. Special rules, +set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to +copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to +protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark. Project +Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you +charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. If you +do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the +rules is very easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose +such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and +research. They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do +practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks. Redistribution is +subject to the trademark license, especially commercial +redistribution. + + + +*** START: FULL LICENSE *** + +THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE +PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK + +To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free +distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work +(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project +Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project +Gutenberg-tm License (available with this file or online at +http://gutenberg.org/license). + + +Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic works + +1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to +and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property +(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all +the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy +all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession. +If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the +terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or +entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. + +1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be +used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who +agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few +things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works +even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See +paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement +and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. See paragraph 1.E below. + +1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation" +or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual works in the +collection are in the public domain in the United States. If an +individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are +located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from +copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative +works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg +are removed. Of course, we hope that you will support the Project +Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by +freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of +this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with +the work. You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by +keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project +Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others. + +1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern +what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in +a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, check +the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement +before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or +creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project +Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no representations concerning +the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United +States. + +1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: + +1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate +access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently +whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the +phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project +Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed, +copied or distributed: + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license + +1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived +from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is +posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied +and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees +or charges. If you are redistributing or providing access to a work +with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the +work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 +through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the +Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or +1.E.9. + +1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted +with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution +must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional +terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms will be linked +to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the +permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work. + +1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this +work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. + +1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this +electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without +prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with +active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project +Gutenberg-tm License. + +1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, +compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any +word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or +distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than +"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version +posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org), +you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a +copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon +request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other +form. Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. + +1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, +performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works +unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. + +1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing +access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided +that + +- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from + the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method + you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is + owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he + has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the + Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments + must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you + prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax + returns. Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and + sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the + address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to + the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation." + +- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies + you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he + does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm + License. You must require such a user to return or + destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium + and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of + Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any + money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the + electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days + of receipt of the work. + +- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free + distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set +forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from +both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael +Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the +Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. + +1.F. + +1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable +effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread +public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm +collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain +"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or +corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual +property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a +computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by +your equipment. + +1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right +of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project +Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all +liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal +fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT +LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE +PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE +TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE +LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR +INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH +DAMAGE. + +1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a +defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can +receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a +written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you +received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with +your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you with +the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a +refund. If you received the work electronically, the person or entity +providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to +receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If the second copy +is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further +opportunities to fix the problem. + +1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth +in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS' WITH NO OTHER +WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO +WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. + +1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied +warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages. +If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the +law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be +interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by +the applicable state law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any +provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions. + +1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the +trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone +providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance +with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production, +promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works, +harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, +that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do +or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm +work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any +Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause. + + +Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm + +Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of +electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers +including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It exists +because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from +people in all walks of life. + +Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the +assistance they need, are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's +goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will +remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure +and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations. +To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation +and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4 +and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org. + + +Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive +Foundation + +The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit +501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the +state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal +Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification +number is 64-6221541. Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at +http://pglaf.org/fundraising. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent +permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. + +The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. +Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered +throughout numerous locations. Its business office is located at +809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email +business@pglaf.org. Email contact links and up to date contact +information can be found at the Foundation's web site and official +page at http://pglaf.org + +For additional contact information: + Dr. Gregory B. Newby + Chief Executive and Director + gbnewby@pglaf.org + + +Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation + +Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide +spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of +increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be +freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest +array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations +($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt +status with the IRS. + +The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating +charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United +States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a +considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up +with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations +where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To +SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any +particular state visit http://pglaf.org + +While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we +have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition +against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who +approach us with offers to donate. + +International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make +any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from +outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. + +Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation +methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other +ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. +To donate, please visit: http://pglaf.org/donate + + +Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. + +Professor Michael S. Hart is the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm +concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared +with anyone. For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project +Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support. + + +Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed +editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S. +unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not necessarily +keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. + + +Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: + + http://www.gutenberg.org + +This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, +including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary +Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to +subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. |