A History of Assam c14.43

c14.43

In response to Welsh's request for reinforcements, six more companies of sepoys were sent up from Bengal, but they did not all arrive until the latter part of April, when the time for field operations was over. It was, therefore, decided to halt at Gauhāti for the rainy season, and to spend the interval in consolidating the Raja's position in Lower Assam and in restoring confidence. This task proved more difficult than had been anticipated. In spite of the promised amnesty, the chiefs and nobles showed no disposition to place themselves in the Raja's power, and it was suspected that some hostile influence was at work. It was discovered that the dismissed Bar Barua and Solādharā Phukan were still intriguing and causing mischief, and they were deported to Rangpur in Bengal. The removal of these malcontents was productive of the best possible results. Soon afterwards the three great Gohāins signified their adherence to Captain Welsh, and their example was followed by most of the officials as well as by the feudatory chiefs.