A History of the Mahrattas v1.c17.44

v1.c17.44

The viceroy neglected no means of hostility, he had anticipated Sumbhajee’s intention of fortifying the island of Aujee Dewa,¹ and now gave orders to some armed vessels stationed there to cruise against Sumbhajee’s fleet and distress the trade of Carwar. The viceroy advanced in person with the army and laid siege to Ponda. Sumbhajee, who possessed all the ardent bravery of his father, though without his prudence or his talents, immediately marched at the head of an inconsiderable force to raise the siege, and on coming in sight of Ponda, although his numbers were inferior to the Portuguese, he commenced an attack on their rear.