A History of the Mahrattas v2.c32: Contents
A History of the Mahrattas v2.c32
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Contents
v2.c32.1
VOL. II.
v2.c32.2
CHAPTER XXIV.
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FROM A.D. 1772 TO A.D. 1774.
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State of parties upon the death of Mahdoo Rao—previous release of Rugonath Rao.—Reduction of Raigurh.—Rugonath Rao is again placed in confinement.—Narrain Rao projects an expedition into the Carnatic, and recalls the army from Hindoostan.—Probability of a rupture with the Berar government upon the death of Janojee Bhonslay.—Murder of Narrain Rao—particulars.—Rugonath Rao is invested as Peishwa.—Character of Narrain Rao.—Return of the army from Hindoostan.—Summary of their proceedings during the campaign.—Rughoojee Bhonslay is nominated Sena Sahib Soobeh.—War with Nizam Ally.—Plans of Rugonath Rao.—State of the ministry.—Nizam Ally is compelled to cede a large portion of territory, which is restored to him.—Rugonath Rao proceeds to the Carnatic—the ministers conspire against him—he concludes an arrangement with Hyder.—State of his army—returns to the northward.—Confederacy against him—defeats Trimbuck Rao Mama.—Advances on Poona—retreats towards Hindoostan—negotiates with Holkar, Sindia, and the English.—Birth of Mahdoo Rao Narrain.—Rugonath Rao crosses the Nerbuddah, and is deserted by Moodajee Bhonslay.—Dissension amongst the ministers.—Party in favour of Rugoba—suppressed.—Hyder Ally takes Sera and Gurumcondah.—Busalut Jung makes an incursion—preparations at Poona.—Rugoba renews negotiations with the English . . . . . . pp. 1–19
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CHAPTER XXV.
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FROM A.D. 1772 TO A.D. 1775.
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The Court of Directors appoint a resident envoy to Poona—intention of that mission.—Capture of Baroach.—Resolution of the Bombay government upon the receipt of intelligence from Poona during the campaign of Rugonath Rao against Nizam Ally.—Negotiations with Rugonath Rao.—Resolution to support him—he refuses to accede to the terms.—Capture of Tannah.—Rugoba deserted by Sindia and Holkar, renews the negotiation with Bombay.—State of the Gaekwar family after the death of Dummajee.—Treaty between Rugoba and the English . . . pp. 20-30
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CHAPTER XXVI.
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A.D. 1775.
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Expedition under Colonel Keating sails for Guzerat.—Defeat of Rugonath Rao—flees to Surat—is joined by Colonel Keating—lands at Cambay—approbation of the Bombay Government—dissent of Mr. Draper.—Instructions to Colonel Keating—he forms a junction with Rugoba’s troops—march to Neriad—detail of operations.—Colonel Keating negotiates—his envoy derided and insulted.—Rugonath Rao is persuaded to move towards the Deccan.—Battle of Arass.—Surprise at Bowpeer.—Treaty with Futih Sing.—Prospects of the belligerents at the close of the season. pp. 31-46
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CHAPTER XXVII.
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FROM A.D. 1774 TO A.D. 1778.
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The Supreme Council in Bengal assume the powers of general administration.—Correspondence with Bombay relative to their late proceedings—disapprove of the connexion with Rugoba.—Death of Sabajee Bhonslay.—Violent condemnation of the Bombay measures—peremptory orders in consequence.—Lieutenant-Colonel Upton dispatched to Poona as envoy plenipotentiary.—Remonstrances of the Bombay government—they vindicate their conduct—their belief in Rugoba’s innocence accounted for.—Reflections on the precipitate interference of the Supreme Government—evils of which it was the cause.—Mr. Hastings’ opinion.—Letter to Sukaram Bappoo.—Colonel Upton’s negotiation broken off—proceedings at Bengal on receipt of this intelligence.—The ministers in the meantime sign the treaty of Poorundhur—its conditions—disappointment and indignation of the Bombay government.—Offers of Rugoba.—Reprehensible conduct of the Bombay government.—Insurrection of the impostor Suddaba.—The Bombay measures approved by the Court of Directors—resolutions in consequence—dissent of Mr. Draper—motives which appear to have actuated the Directors.—Progress of Suddaba—defeat—seizure—and execution.—Colonel Upton recalled.—Mr. Mostyn re-appointed Resident.—Evasive conduct of the ministry.—An agent of the French government is received with distinction at Poona.—The Concan restored to order.—Conquests of Hyder.—
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Retrospective view of the history of Kolapoor.—Depredations and piracies.—Progress of Hyder.—Successful artifice of Hurry Punt Phurkay.—Death of Ram Raja and of the Pritee Needhee.—Affairs of Moodajee Bhonslay—and of Futih Sing Gaekwar.—The son of Trimbukjee Raja Bhonslay is selected as Raja of Satara.—Curious artifice of the Bramins with regard to the intermarriage of the imprisoned Rajas . . . . . . pp. 47-69
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CHAPTER XXVIII.
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FROM A.D. 1777 TO A.D. 1779.
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Mr. Hornby’s minute respecting Mahratta affairs.—French envoy, St. Lubin—account of his proceedings at Poona.—Orders from the Court of Directors, in case the Poona ministry should not fulfil the terms of the treaty of Poorundhur.—Dissensions of the ministry.—Application for the restoration of Rugoba from the party of Moraba Furnuwees.—Bengal government assent to that measure.—Six battalions of Bengal Sepoys ordered to march overland to Bombay.—Terms on which the Bombay government agree to support Moraba’s party.—Consummate artifice of Nana Furnuwees.—Moraba’s party decline the restoration of Rugoba.—Return of Mahadajee Sindia, and Hurry Punt Phurkay.—Faction of Moraba crushed.—Unshaken constancy of Sukaram Hurry.—Observations respecting the march of the Bengal troops.—Further explanation of the motives which actuated the Bombay government—resolve to attempt the restoration of Rugoba.—Preparations of Nana Furnuwees.—The Governor-General intimates his intention of forming an alliance with Moodajee Bhonslay.—The Bombay government adhere to their resolution.—Zeal of Mr. Carnac—judicious counsel of Mr. Draper.—Colonel Charles Egerton, account of.—Field committee appointed—dilatory preparations—advanced detachment crosses over to the continent, and occupies the Bhore Ghaut without opposition.—Perverseness of Rugoba.—Embarkation—troops land at Panwell—extraordinary conduct and ignorance of Colonel Egerton—unparalleled dilatoriness of the advance.—Mahratta proceedings—manifest but slight opposition—appear in force at Tullygaom—burn the village—and retire before the British troops.—The English determine on retiring from Tullygaom—are attacked on their retreat to Wurgaom—gallant conduct of the rearguard under Captain Hartley.—Disgraceful convention of Wurgaom.—Misconduct of the committee.—Mr. Carnac and Lieutenant-Colonel Cockburn are dismissed from the service.—Distress of the Bombay Government—observations on their late conduct—fortitude and ability of Governor Hornby—his review of their affairs—revert to the proceedings of the Bengal troops.—Colonel Leslie removed from the command—but dies before the order of supersession is received.—Colonel Goddard assumes the command and continues his march—treacherous conduct of the Mahrattas at Sagur—hospitality and kindness of the Nabob of Bhopaul.—Negotiations with Moodajee Bhonslay—declines entering on the alliance.—General Goddard on learning the disaster at Wurgaom decides on marching straight for Surat—grateful acknowledgements of the Bombay government.—Mr. Hornby submits a plan of operations.—The negotiations with Poona confide to Colonel Goddard.—Conduct of the Bengal government—judicious observations of Mr. Hastings with regard to the members of the Bombay council.—Goddard appointed Brigadier-General—remonstrances of the Bombay government.—Goddard instructed to negotiate a peace, or eventually to follow the plan proposed by Mr. Hornby.—Policy of Mahadajee Sindia—he allows Rugoba to escape—sacrifices Sukaram Bappoo and Chintoo Wittul to the jealousy of Nana Furnuwees . . . pp. 70–106
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CHAPTER XXIX.
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FROM A.D. 1779 TO A.D. 1782.
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Hyder makes himself master of the Mahratta territory, south of the Kistna—his jealousy of the English—his connexion with the French.—The English expect to be attacked by the French on the west coast of India.—Rugoba received by the English.—Report of a general confederacy against the English.—The British government acts as a principal in the negotiation with the Poona state, not as the auxiliary of Rugoba.—War declared.—Capture of Dubhoy.—Alliance with Futih Sing Gaekwar—terms.—Siege and storm of Ahmedabad.—Sindia and Holkar advance against Goddard.—Policy of Sindia.—Negotiations.—Goddard partially surprises Sindia’s camp.—Operations prolonged in Guzerat—reasons.—Lieutenant-Colonel Hartley sent down to assist the troops in the Concan.—Operations in that quarter.—Capture and defence of Kallian—relieved by Colonel Hartley.—Operations of Captain Popham’s detachment.—Capture of Lahar.—Surprise of Gwalior.—Unsuccessful attempt on Mullungurh.—Distress of the Bombay Government.—War with Hyder Ally.—Admirable conduct of Governor Hornby.—Hartley opens the campaign with great spirit.—Siege of Bassein.—The covering army is attacked by the Mahrattas.—Battle of Doogaur.—Reduction of Bassein.—Memoir of Colonel Hartley.—Extensive confederacy against the British Government.—Peace proposed to the Peishwa’s government through Moodajee—who declines the mediation, in consequence of the success of Hyder.—Proceedings at Bombay.—Goddard injudiciously takes post at the Bhore Ghaut.—Preparations of the Mahrattas—they act vigorously on Goddard’s supplies.—Goddard retreats to Panwell with heavy loss.—Proceedings of the Bengal government.—Operations of Lieutenant-Colonel Camac’s detachment.—Camac is surrounded by Sindia—retreats—surprises Sindia’s camp—is joined by Colonel Muir.—Negotiation opened by Sindia, through Colonel Muir.—Moodajee Bhonslay sends an army into Kuttack.—Warren Hastings purchases its retreat, and detaches Moodajee from the confederacy.—Instructions to General Goddard for negotiating at Poona.—Extensive plan proposed by Goddard for carrying on the war.—Peace with Sindia.—A general treaty of peace with the Mahrattas concluded at Salbye, through Mahadajee Sindia.—Delay in its ratification.—Baroach conferred on Sindia . . . . . . pp. 107–147
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CHAPTER XXX.
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FROM A.D. 1773 TO A.D. 1784.
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Affairs at the imperial court.—Nujeef Khan.—Shujah-ud-dowlah—dies—is succeeded by his son Asoph-ud-dowlah.—Mujd-ud-dowlah—his intrigues against Nujeef Khan frustrated.—Nujeef Khan establishes a paramount authority, which he upholds till his death.—His adopted son, Afrasiab Khan, obliged to relinquish the succession to Mirza Shuffee—disputed by Mohummud Beg Humadanee.—Mirza Shuffee assassinated.—Afrasiab Khan resumes his situation, and contests the succession with Mohummud Beg.—Treaty of Salbye—reasons for the delay in its ratification explained—Mahadajee Sindia and Nana Furnuwees—their respective views.—Hyder Ally.—Proposal for invading Bengal.—Sindia’s reasons for desiring the friendship of the English.—Policy of Nana Furnuwees.—Death of Hyder Ally.—Ratification of the Treaty.—Outrage committed by the Peishwa’s admiral.—Capture of the English ship *Ranger*.—Tippoo professes to acquiesce in the terms of the treaty, but continues the war against the English.—Mahadajee Sindia threatens him in consequence.—A separate treaty concluded between the English and Tippoo—disapproved—but confirmed by the Governor-General.—The court of Poona affect to consider the separate pacification a violation of the treaty of Salbye.—Views of the Poona and Hyderabad courts.—A conference—claims discussed.—Offensive alliance against Tippoo proposed.—Seedee of Jinjeera.—Tippoo insults Nizam Ally.—Probability of a rupture.—Hostilities postponed.—Death of Rugonath Rao.—Intrigues in favour of his son, Bajee Rao.—Mahadajee Sindia—his proceedings . . . . . . pp. 148–158
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CHAPTER XXXI.
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FROM A.D. 1784 TO A.D. 1785.
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Factions at the imperial court.—Escape of Mirza Jewan Bukht.—Afrasiab Khan negotiates with the English.—Governor-General declines all interference.—Afrasiab Khan has recourse to Mahadajee Sindia.—Sindia’s progress since the treaty of Salbye.—Benoit de Boigne.—Sindia accepts the invitation of Afrasiab Khan.—Marches to Agra.—Afrasiab Khan assassinated.—The whole power falls into the hands of Sindia—his policy in regard to the Peishwa. —The Emperor confers on him the command of the army, etc.— Mahomedan chiefs submit.—The Dooab taken possession of.— Agra and Aligurh taken.—Effect of the news of these events at the Poona court.—Sindia intoxicated by his success, prefers a demand on the British Government for the Chouth of Bengal— effect.—Determination of the acting Governor-General to send an envoy to the Peishwa’s court.—Sindia’s objections.—Affairs in the Deccan . . . . . . pp. 159–165
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CHAPTER XXXII.
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FROM A.D. 1784 TO A.D. 1787.
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Tippoo.—Nurgoond—Origin and progress of the dispute respecting it.— Tippoo’s treachery—takes Nurgoond—seizes Kittoor—forcibly converts many Hindoos.—Nana Furnuwees proposes an alliance with the English.—The latter less solicitous to co-operate than Nana expected.—Nana applies to the Portuguese.—French said to be in alliance with Tippoo.—Reported alliance between the Mahrattas and the French.—British Resident instructed to proceed to Poona.—Mr. Macpherson’s offer of assisting in the defence of the Mahratta territory—rejected by Nana Furnuwees—Mahratta army advances to form a junction with Nizam Ally and Moodajee Bhonslay.—Moodajee in close alliance with the Poona Court.— Mahratta and Moghul armies unite—plan of operations.—Badamee taken.—Nana Furnuwees returns to Poona, and Moodajee Bhonslay to Nagpoor.—Holkar’s proceedings.—Tippoo attacks Adonee —Gallant defence till relieved by the confederates.—Adonee abandoned.—Gujendergurh given up to Hurry Punt.—Holkar makes a sudden march to Savanoor—his object—Burhan-ud-deen attacks him—is repulsed by Holkar, who is joined by the Nabob of Savanoor.—Hurry Punt’s operations.—Tippoo unexpectedly passes the Toongbuddra—operations of the armies.—Savanoor abandoned by the Mahrattas—Tippoo takes possession—proceeds to Benkapoor.—Hurry Punt takes Seerhutty.—Feeble operations on both sides.—Tippoo suddenly tenders proposals of peace.— Peace concluded.—Motives elucidated.—Sindia . . . pp. 166–179
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CHAPTER XXXIII.
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FROM A.D. 1785 TO A.D. 1790.
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Sindia’s embarrassments—His impolitic conduct—Sequestrates many of the Jagheers—consequent enmity of the Mahomedan chiefs.— Mohummud Beg Humadanee.—Sindia levies tribute from the Rajpoots—The Rajpoots revolt—attack and rout Sindia’s troops under Ryajee Patell.—Sindia takes the field—difficulties of the by Kummur-ud-deen.—Lord Cornwallis reduces the forts between Bangalore and Gurumcondah.—Moghuls unable to reduce Gurumcondah, leave a party to mask it, which is surprised.—Pureshrum Bhow’s scheme of reducing Bednore.—Battle of Simoga.—Admirable conduct of Captain Little.—Simoga capitulates.—Pureshrum Bhow advances towards Bednore, but retires with precipitation.—Operations at Seringapatam.—Peace concluded with Tippoo.—Cause of Pureshrum Bhow’s retreat explained.—The armies return to their respective territories.—Distress of Pureshrum Bhow’s army . . . . . . pp. 192-214
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CHAPTER XXXV.
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FROM A.D. 1792 TO A.D. 1794.
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An inquiry into the reasons which induced Lord Cornwallis to refrain from subjugating Tippoo’s territory is foreign to the object of this work.—Opinion of the Mahratta ministers on this subject.—Mahadajee Sindia’s proposals at the time of forming the confederacy against Tippoo, to which Sindia did not become a party.—Sindia’s proceedings in Hindoostan.—Battle of Patun.—Ismael Beg defeated—Rajpoots continue the war—battle of Mairta—peace with the Rajpoots.—The regular infantry of De Boigne.—Holkar entertains the Chevalier Dudrenec and raises some regular corps.—Ali Buhadur assisted by Himmut Buhadur establishes himself in Bundelcund.—Sindia moves towards Poona.—Surmises with regard to his intentions—declares that he is proceeding as bearer of the insignia of office, for the Wukeel-i-Mootluq, from the Emperor to the Peishwa.—Grand state ceremony on presenting the insignia.—Sindia endeavours by various ways to gain the confidence of the young Peishwa to the prejudice of Nana Furnuwees.—Discussions respecting the affairs of Hindoostan.—Ismael Beg again raises disturbances, but is taken prisoner and confined for life in the fort of Agra.—The troops of Sindia and Holkar commit hostilities against each other—obstinate battle of Lukhairee.—Sindia’s troops victorious.—Consequences at Poona.—Hostilities suspended in Hindoostan, by orders from the Peishwa and Sindia—the latter all-powerful in Hindoostan—his attempts to render himself popular in the Deccan—perseveres in his endeavours to supersede Nana Furnuwees in the young Peishwa’s favour.—Remarkable explanation betwixt the Peishwa and Nana.—Views of Mahadajee Sindia—his death . . . . . . pp. 215-226
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CHAPTER XXXVI.
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A.D. 1794.
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Mahadajee Sindia’s death an event of great political importance.—Review of his policy and summary of his character—Is succeeded by his grand-nephew, Doulut Rao.—Sindia’s regular infantry.—Opinions of many Mahrattas respecting that force.—Holkar long averse to its introduction.—Rughoojee Bhonslay had no infantry disciplined by European officers.—State of affairs at Nagpoor, and at Baroda.—Govind Rao Gaekwar succeeds as regent.—Piracy on the coast of Maharashtra.—The Peishwa’s fleet.—Angria of Kolabah.—Seedees of Jinjeera—Revolutions and events in that State, Malwan and Sawuntwaree.—Various attempts of the English to suppress their piracies, and those of the Raja of Kolapoor—never completely effected until the year 1812. pp. 227–238
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CHAPTER XXXVII.
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FROM A.D. 1794 TO A.D. 1795.
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Reflections on the preceding details, and on the condition of the Mahrattas as a military nation at this period.—Their claims on Nizam Ally occasion a temporary union of the chiefs.—Course of policy adopted by the English in the negotiation which preceded the war between the Mahrattas and Nizam Ally.—Discussions between the Courts of Poona and Hyderabad—war declared—assembly of the armies respectively—march to oppose each other—skirmish in which the Moghuls obtain some advantage—battle of Kurdla—extraordinary discomfiture of the Moghul army.—Submission of Nizam Ally, who surrenders the person of his minister, cedes large tracts of territory, and promises to pay three krores of rupees.—Anecdote of the young Peishwa.—Nizam Ally offended at the neutrality of the English, whose influence at Hyderabad is likely to be wholly superseded by a French party.—Unexpected rebellion of the prince Ali Jah occasions the recall of the English battalions.—The rebellion suppressed by the exertions of M. Raymond—Movements of the Mahrattas during the insurrection.—No proof of their having been in any manner accessory to the rebellion.—Nana Furnuwees at the summit of power, when his anxiety to preserve it brings on an unforeseen catastrophe . pp. 239–251
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CHAPTER XXXVIII.
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FROM A.D. 1795 TO A.D. 1796.
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Nana Furnuwees—his conduct towards Mahdoo Rao—the Raja of Satara—and the family of the deceased Rugonath Rao.—The sons of Rugonath Rao confined in the fort of Sewneree.—Bajee Rao the particular object of Nana’s jealousy.—Bajee Rao’s character at this period—his accomplishments.—The young Peishwa desirous of cultivating his friendship.—Nana advises him to beware—Bajee Rao corrupts one of Nana’s agents and opens a communication with the Peishwa—his insidious messages.—Discovery—its conse quences.—Mahdoo Rao throws himself from the terrace of his palace, and dies.—Nana endeavours to exclude Bajee Rao from the succession.—Bajee Rao gains over Balloba Tattya and Sindia to his interests.—Nana Furnuwees determines on anticipating Sindia, and brings Bajee Rao to Poona.—Sindia influenced by his minister marches on the capital—Nana withdraws from Poona.—Balloba Tattya resolves to set aside Bajee Rao and raise Chimnajee Appa to the Musnud, with Pureshram Bhow as his minister.—Nana Furnuwees, being consulted by Pureshram Bhow, assents with seeming cordiality to the proposal.—Nana’s proceedings.—Suspicions of Balloba Tattya.—Conspiracy matured, and Bajee Rao confined.—Chimnajee Appa declared Peishwa.—Sindia’s pecuniary distress—plan for alleviating it—enlargement of Musheer Ool Moolk.—The new administration pretend a wish that Nana Furnuwees should take a principal share in the government.—Nana discovers their treachery.—Desperate situation of Nana—evinces great ability in extricating himself and circumventing his enemies.—His interests in unison with those of Bajee Rao.—Rise of Ballajee Koonjur.—Nana discloses a part of his plans to Bajee Rao.—Rise of Shirzee Rao Ghatgay.—Nana Furnuwees gains Sindia to his views.—The imprudent proceedings of Bajee Rao’s party bring on a premature discovery of a part of the conspiracy.—Bajee Rao sent off towards Hindoostan—enters into a compact with Shirzee Rao Ghatgay.—Proceedings at Poona.—Schemes of Nana Furnuwees matured—excites the Raja of Kolapoor to fall upon the districts of Pureshram Bhow.—Treaty of Mhar.—Treaty with Rughoojee Bhonslay.—Sindia arrests Balloba Tattya.—Pureshram Bhow accidentally forewarned of his danger—flees from Poona—is overtaken and made prisoner.—Nana Furnuwees obtains the guarantee of Nizam Ally and of Sindia, before trusting himself at Poona—Bajee Rao proclaimed Peishwa.—The adoption of Chimnajee Appa declared illegal.—Chimnajee Appa appointed to the government of Guzerat, with Aba Shelookur as his deputy. pp. 252–269
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CHAPTER XXXIX.
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FROM A.D. 1797 TO A.D. 1798.
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New administration.—Army in a disorderly state.—Ahmednugur made over to Sindia, and the conditions of the treaty with Rughoojee Bhonslay fulfilled.—Bajee Rao refuses to ratify the treaty with Nizam Ally—Musheer Ool Moolk suddenly quits Poona in consequence—Nana Furnuwees endeavours to soothe him—Bajee Rao’s policy.—Death of Tookajee Holkar—dispute among his sons—Sindia espouses the cause of Khassee Rao—Mulhar Rao killed, and the house of Holkar rendered for a time subservient to that of Sindia.—Sindia’s arbitrary conduct.—Bajee Rao still popular—his real character little known—proposes ridding himself of both Nana Furnuwees and Sindia—employs the latter to seize the former, and Nana, with most of the principal ministers, is thrown into confinement—the property of Nana and his adherents given up to plunder—outrages and alarms at Poona.—Amrut Rao becomes prime minister.—Sindia espouses the daughter of Ghatgay. —Ghatgay becomes Sindia’s prime minister—is empowered to raise the money secretly promised by Bajee Rao, by plundering the inhabitants of Poona—dreadful cruelties.—Amrut Rao proposes to seize and confine Sindia—Bajee Rao approves.—Differences with Hyderabad revived.—Bajee Rao summons Sindia to his presence.—Bajee Rao’s weakness and treachery.—Affairs of Satara—a force required in that quarter—Bajee Rao’s troops mutiny.—Pures hram Bhow enlarged—raises troops—disperses those of the Raja, but afterwards refuses to disband his army.—Bajee Rao grants him a pardon . . . . pp. 270–280
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CHAPTER XL.
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FROM A.D. 1798 TO A.D. 1800.
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Disorders increase at Poona.—The Byes.—Commencement of their insurrection against Sindia—they seek protection in the camp of Amrut Rao—negotiation.—Amrut Rao’s troops treacherously attacked.—Rupture between the Peishwa and Sindia.—The Peishwa negotiates with other powers.—Sindia releases Nana Furnuwees.—Reconciliation between Sindia and the Peishwa.—Shirzee Rao Ghatgay is seized and confined by Sindia’s orders.—The union of Bajee Rao and Sindia, strengthened by the course of policy adopted by the English.—The British government endeavours to negotiate a new treaty with Nizam Ally and the Mahrattas.—Nana Furnuwees is solicited to resume charge of the administration.—Nana, deceived by Bajee Rao, assumes charge without the guarantee he had at first demanded.—Treachery of Bajee Rao—Nana’s behaviour.—The Peishwa’s agents seized and confined.—New treaty between Nizam Ally and the English—regarded by the Mahrattas with much jealousy.—Nana’s advice.—Bajee Rao’s dissimulation.—Plan of a confederacy against the English, disconcerted by the subversion of Tippoo’s government.—Orders sent by the Peishwa for the advance of his troops after the war had terminated.—Dispersion of the followers of Dhoondia Waug.—Dhoondia joins the Raja of Kolapoor.—Remarks on the conquest of Tippoo’s territory—partition—discussions with the Poona court.—New treaty between the English and Nizam Ally.—Affairs of Sindia—the insurrection of the Byes becomes extremely formidable—by the re-appointment of Balloba Tattya, it is nearly suppressed.—State of the war with Kolapoor—exploits of Chitoor Sing—proposed plan of operations—Pures hram Bhow defeated and killed—Kolapoor besieged—siege raised . . . pp. 281–300
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CHAPTER XLI.
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Death and character of Nana Furnuwees—fresh dispute between Sindia and the Peishwa.—Balloba Tattya’s confinement and death—dreadful executions of Dhondeba and Narrain Rao Bukhshee.—Peishwa’s plans for ruining the adherents of Nana Furnuwees and the family of Pureshram Bhow.—Sindia on being promised the Jagheer of the Putwurdhuns sends a force into their districts.—Great disorders—insurrection of Dhoondia Waug—suppressed by a detachment of British troops.—State of affairs at Poona.—Bajee Rao’s situation and views—critical state of Sindia’s affairs in Malwa.—Rise and progress of Jeswunt Rao Holkar—Umeer Khan joins him—Jeswunt Rao recognised in Malwa as the representative of his nephew Khundee Rao—imbecility of Sindia’s proceedings—Sindia induces Holkar to attack the Byes.—Marches towards Hindoostan.—Holkar cuts off two of Sindia’s detachments—is repulsed by Major Brownrigg.—Events at Poona—execution of Wittoojee Holkar.—Shirzee Rao Ghatgay defeats a plot against him in a singular manner—he is ordered to join Sindia—defeats Jeswunt Rao Holkar at Indore, which he plunders—Sindia injudiciously gives Holkar time to recover himself—Jeswunt Rao carries the war into the Deccan—his successes there—Sewdasheo Bhow Bhaskur sent to oppose him.—Peishwa’s conduct.—Battle of Poona—Holkar is victorious.—The Peishwa flees to Singurh—and sends to the British Resident a preliminary engagement, binding himself to receive a subsidiary force.—Resident’s interview with Holkar.—The Peishwa proceeds to Bassein.—Affairs in Guzerat. pp. 301–319
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CHAPTER XLII.
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FROM A.D. 1793 TO A.D. 1803.
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Affairs of Baroda.—War between Govind Rao Gaekwar and Aba Shelookur.—The English depose the Nabob of Surat—they are promised the Gaekwar’s share of the Chouth and the district of Chourassy.—Gaekwar reduces Shelookur and obtains the Peishwa’s share of Guzerat in farm.—Death of Govind Rao Gaekwar—his eldest son Anund Rao succeeds him—two parties in the government, the one under Rowjee Appajee, the other under Kanhojee Rao Gaekwar—both apply to the British Government for aid—the Governor of Bombay supports the party of Rowjee Appajee, by sending a small detachment into Guzerat under Major Walker.—Mulhar Rao Gaekwar attacks the British troops—reinforcements sent into Guzerat—Mulhar Rao is reduced.—A British subsidiary force established at Baroda—embarrassed state of the finances—
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Sunkhera reduced.—The Arab mercenaries oppose the projected reforms.—Siege and surrender of Baroda.—Kanhojee Rao Gaekwar maintains an insurrection against the Government.—Affair of Sauree—gallant conduct of Major Holmes . . pp. 320-327
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CHAPTER XLIII.
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FROM A.D. 1802 TO A.D. 1803.
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Events at Poona.—Winaek Rao, the son of Amrut Rao, is placed on the musnud by Holkar.—Treaty of Bassein.—Sindia and Rughoojee Bhonslay unite to obstruct the objects of the treaty.—Advance of the British troops—return of the Peishwa to Poona—Negotiation with the confederates—preparations for war—war declared—capture of Ahmednugur—battle of Assaye—Burhanpoor—Asseergurh—Baroach and Pawungurh taken.—Of the war in Hindoostan.—Revert to General de Boigne—his opinions and those of his successor—advance of the Bengal army—affair of Coel—storm of Aligurh—successful attack on Shekoabad by M. Fleury—battle of Delhi—battle of Agra—battle of Laswaree—conquest of Kuttack and of Bundelcund—supplemental articles to the Treaty of Bassein—prosecution of the war in the Deccan—Captain Baynes’s defence—negotiations—battle of Argaom—siege and storm of Gawelgurh—negotiations—treaty of Deogaom—treaty of Surjee Anjengaom and of Burhanpoor—partition treaties—treaties with the Rajpoots, Jhats, and Ambajee Inglia. pp. 328-363
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CHAPTER XLIV.
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A.D. 1804.
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Reflections on the late war.—Views of Jeswunt Rao Holkar.—Negotiations.—Lord Lake advances against Holkar, preceded by a detachment under Colonel Monson.—Holkar retires across the Chumbul.—Tonk-Rampoorah taken.—Umeer Khan cuts off part of a detachment in Bundelcund.—Lord Lake reinforces Monson and cantons the main army for the rains.—Monson advances—escalades Hinglaisgurh—Holkar crosses the Chumbul—Monson hesitates—Holkar attacks him—Monson retreats.—Bravery—privations—distresses—disasters—and discomfiture of his detachment.—Holkar invades Hindoostan—Muttra evacuated—is repulsed at Delhi.—Defence of Colonel Burn at Shamlee—Holkar carries his depredations into the Dooab—is pursued by Lord Lake—battle of Deeg—surprise at Furruckabad—storm of Deeg.—Holkar’s possessions in the Deccan reduced—Indore evacuated.—Lord Lake determines on besieging Bhurtpoor—Raja’s resolve . pp. 364-380
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CHAPTER XLV.
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The siege of Bhurtpoor commences.—Holkar and Umeer Khan attempt to obstruct the operations.—Umeer Khan proceeds to Rohilcund—is pursued by General Smith—defeated and compelled to return to Bhurtpoor.—The Jhats repulse the British army in four assaults.—The Raja sues for peace—terms granted—principal reason for admitting him to terms.—Disputes with Sindia.—The Marquis Cornwallis returns to India as Governor-General—his views—death—is succeeded by Sir George Barlow—Holkar takes the route of the Punjab—is pursued by Lord Lake.—Peace with Sindia—and with Holkar.—System of policy pursued by Sir George Barlow—remonstrances of Lord Lake—declaratory articles annexed to the treaties—policy of the British Government towards the Rajpoots—particularly ungenerous towards the Raja of Boondee.—Treaty with the Gaekwar . . . pp. 381-395
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CHAPTER XLVI.
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FROM A.D. 1806 TO A.D. 1814.
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Review of the condition of the Mahratta states—and of the British policy in regard to them.—Holkar’s proceedings—insanity—confinement—death and character.—Regency under the control of Umeer Khan—factions—embarrassments and anarchy.—State of Sindia’s territory.—Death of Shirzee Rao Ghatgay.—Affairs of Rughoojee Bhonslay.—Rise of the Pindharees—their mode of assembling and conducting an expedition—their progress—general anarchy in central India—alarming increase of predatory power. pp. 396-408
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CHAPTER XLVII.
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FROM A.D. 1803 TO A.D. 1817.
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The Peishwa’s proceedings, after being re-established on his musnud.—Appoints Sewdasheo Bhow Mankesir to conduct affairs with the British Residency.—Ingratitude to Khundee Rao Rastia—and total disregard of the claims of the former servants of the state.—Appoints Ballajee Luximon, Sur-soobehdar of Candeish and Buglana.—Treacherous seizure and murder of the Bheels at Kopergaom.—Rebellion of the Pritee Needhee—Suppressed by Bappoo Gokla, who is enriched in consequence.—Appa Dessaye Nepankur—called to interfere in the wars of Kolapoor and Sawunt-waree.—Affairs of these petty states.—Revert to affairs at Poona.—Collusion of Sewdasheo Mankesir and Khoosroogee Moodhee.—
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Mr. Elphinstone is appointed Resident.—Settlement with the southern Jagheerdars, who are compelled to submit to the Peishwa.—Suppression of piracy in the Concan.—Treaties with Kolapoor and Sawuntwaree.—Exultation of the Peishwa—he raises a brigade of regular troops.—Accusations against Khoosroojee Moodhee by Sewdasheo Bhow Mankesir.—Rise of Trimbukjee Dainglia.—Bajee Rao extends his views of policy—recruits his army.—Conduct of Bappojee Sindia in regard to the surrender of Dharwar.—Trimbukjee Dainglia becomes prime minister.—Mode of letting the districts in farm.—Bajee Rao's neglect of civil government—amasses considerable wealth—perseveres in sequestrating Jagheers.—Case of Mahdoo Rao Rastia.—Plan of an extensive confederacy.—Endeavours to establish an ascendancy in Guzerat.—Affairs of the Baroda government.—Able management of Lieutenant-Colonel Walker.—Claims of the Peishwa.—Counter claims of the Gaekwar.—Attempt at adjustment—fails.—Gun-gadhur Shastree is deputed to Poona—progress of his mission—he is murdered by Trimbukjee.—Trimbukjee delivered up to the British government—effects his escape from confinement.—The Peishwa raises troops through Trimbukjee, for the purpose of maintaining war secretly against the British government.—Conduct of the Resident for defeating this design.—The troops assembled are declared insurgents—pursued and attacked.—Intercourse suspended.—Proposed preliminary to an adjustment.—Bajee Rao denies all knowledge of Trimbukjee or his adherents.—Refuses to comply with the proposed terms.—Poona surrounded.—The Peishwa submits.—New treaty . . . pp. 409–450
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CHAPTER XLVIII.
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FROM A.D. 1814 TO A.D. 1817.
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The Marquis of Hastings assumes charge of the government of British India.—State of India from the increase of predatory power.—Patans and Pindharees.—Plan for improving the defensive military positions—failure of the negotiations with Bhopaul and Jeypoor—defensive alliance embraced by Appa Sahib, the regent at Nagpoor—Appa Sahib falls into the views of the Poona Court—murders Pursajee.—Progress of the Pindharees.—Plans of the Marquis of Hastings for the suppression of the predatory system—political and military arrangements.—Sindia is forced into the Governor-General's views—progress of the negotiations with the Rajpoots, Umeer Khan, the chiefs in Bundelcund, and the Nabob of Bhopaul. pp. 451–465
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CHAPTER XLIX.
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FROM A.D. 1817 TO A.D. 1818.
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The Peishwa proceeds to Punderpoor—pretended reduction of his military establishment.—Poona auxiliary force.—Sir John Malcolm, Political Agent of the Governor-General, arrives at Poona—interview with the Peishwa at Maholy—is deceived by Bajee Rao—system recommended in consequence.—Advance of the divisions of the Deccan army.—Peishwa’s proceedings at Maholy—invests Bappoo Gokla with full powers—plan for corrupting the troops—fidelity of the Sepoys—murder of the Resident prevented by Gokla.—Festival of the Dussera—alarming appearances at Poona—Peishwa hesitates—arrival of the European regiment.—British troops take up a new position—are suddenly attacked by the Peishwa’s army—battle of Khirkee—Residency plundered and burnt—violent proceedings of the Peishwa—remonstrances.—Interview between the Resident’s moonshee and Gokla.—General Smith returns to Poona—flight of the Peishwa.—Poona is occupied—pursuit of the Peishwa—defence of Korygaom.—The Peishwa continues his flight—pursuit taken up by General Pritzler—resumed by General Smith.—Mr. Elphinstone is appointed Commissioner, and two divisions of the army of the Deccan placed at his disposal.—Capture of Satara.—The Satara proclamation—new distribution of the force.—General Smith surprises the Peishwa’s army at Ashtah—death of Gokla—rescue of the Raja of Satara.—Affairs of Nagpoor—treacherous attack on the British troops.—Battle of Seetabuldee—arrival of General Doveton—Appa Sahib surrenders himself—his guns are stormed and taken—attack on Nagpoor repulsed—Arabs capitulate—operations of General Hardyman and reduction of the northern districts.—Appa Sahib is reinstated.—Revert to affairs in Malwa and Hindoostan . pp. 466–498
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CHAPTER L.
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FROM A.D. 1817 TO A.D. 1818.
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Pindharees.—Divisions close in upon the Durras of Khureem Khan and Wasil Mohummud—pursuit of Cheetoo by Sir J. Malcolm.—Cheetoo is protected in Holkar’s camp—hostile appearances.—General Malcolm forms a junction with Sir Thomas Hislop—battle of Mehidpoor—treaty with Holkar.—Cheetoo is protected by Jeswunt Rao Bhow, one of Sindia’s generals.—Jeswunt Rao is in consequence treated as an enemy—Camp attacked and Jawud stormed by General Browne—destruction of the Durras of Wasil Mohummud and Khureem Khan—and of Cheetoo—dispersion of the Pindharees—and dismemberment of the Patan association.—Treaties with the Rajpoots.—Recompense of the Raja of Boondee and Nabob of Bhopaul.—Sir John Malcolm appointed to the government of Central India.—Operations in Bundelcund.—Storm of Talneir.—Operations against the Peishwa.—Affair of Sewnee.—Bajee Rao reduced to great distress—writes to Sir J. Malcolm, who negotiates with him—interview—surrender—terms—remarks.—Seizure of Trimbukjee.—Escape of Appa Sahib.—Siege and capture of Asseergurh . . . . . pp. 499–516
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PART II. THE WRITINGS
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A
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VOL. II
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CHAPTER XXIV.
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FROM A.D. 1772 TO A.D. 1774.
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A.D. 1772.—Considerable relaxation in the confinement of Rugonath Rao had taken place for some time prior to Mahdoo Rao’s death. As the health of his nephew declined, Rugonath Rao began intrigues with Hyder Ally and the Nizam, in order to obtain complete enlargement, and secure his succession as Peishwa.
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The correspondence was intercepted by the ministers during the Peishwa’s extreme illness; nineteen persons implicated were sent into hill-forts, and the confinement of Rugonath Rao would have become more rigid than ever, but Mahdoo Rao, perceiving his death was near, interposed, and observed that it was natural for his uncle to desire his liberty. With his usual sound discrimination, he foresaw that his brother would not be able to conduct the administration if Rugonath Rao were not effectually restrained or conciliated; judging on the whole, therefore, that the latter course was the more advisable, and that in case of dissension the government must fall to pieces, he, in the first place, sent for Sukaram Bappoo and reinstated him as Dewan. It should be premised that Sukaram was more favourably disposed towards Rugonath Rao than any of the other ministers: he had acted as his Dewan in different campaigns; he respected Rugonath Rao as a good soldier, and had hitherto retained his confidence. Nana Furnuwees had as yet only acted in a secondary situation under Mahdoo Rao, his abilities had not fully developed themselves, and Sukaram Bappoo was accounted the most capable man in the empire. It had been previously settled, before Mahdoo Rao’s present arrangements were contemplated, that Nana was to act as Furnuwees in the civil, and Moroba, his cousin, in the military department.
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Rugonath Rao was sent for to Theur, a reconciliation took place, and Mahdoo Rao, in the presence of Sukaram Bappoo, recommended his brother in an impressive manner to the care and protection of his uncle. He also, on several occasions before his final dissolution, in conversation with his brother and uncle, calmly entered upon the discussion of their state affairs, and represented the necessity of concord for their mutual safety and the preservation of the government.
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After the usual time spent in the performance of his brother’s funeral obsequies, Narrain Rao¹ early in December repaired to Satara, where he was invested as Peishwa by the Raja. Sukaram Bappoo received the clothes of prime minister, under the name of Karbaree, whilst Bujaba Poorundhuree was appointed Dewan, and Nana Furnuwees was recognized in the hereditary situation of his family.
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¹ Narrain Rao was the youngest of the three sons of Ballajee Bajee Rao. Wiswas Rao, the eldest, fell, as may be remembered, at Panniput.
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A.D. 1773.—The first object of the new administration was the reduction of Raigurh, the Havildar of which had been in rebellion against the Peishwa for some months before Mahdoo Rao’s death. It was apprehended that he had designs of giving it up to the Seedee, and when required to surrender, he replied that he held the fort for the Raja of Satara and would maintain it against the Peishwa until the Raja was released; but on an order from Ram Raja and the payment of forty thousand rupees, Narrain Rao, in the month of March, obtained possession of the ancient capital of Sivajee.
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The new Peishwa and Rugonath Rao continued for some time in apparent amity: but the mother of the one, the wife of the other, and the jealousy of the Bramin ministers, would probably have created discord between men of better temper and stronger judgment. Rugonath Rao, with the consent of all except Sukaram Bappoo, who objected to the violence of the measure, was again made prisoner on the 11th of April and confined in an apartment of the same palace in which Narrain Rao, when at Poona, usually resided.²
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² Mahratta MSS. and Bombay Records.
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Nana Furnuwees stood high in the young Peishwa’s estimation, but Bujaba Poorundhuree and Hurry Punt Phurkay were his chief confidants. The principal state affairs continued ostensibly to be transacted by Sukaram Bappoo, but the favourites were inimical to his administration. Narrain Rao was particularly ambitious of military fame, and looked forward with eagerness to the ensuing season, when he proposed to make a campaign in the Carnatic. For this purpose troops were directed to be in readiness, and orders were dispatched to recall the armies from Hindoostan. But circumstances occurred which occasioned the probability of employment in the Mahratta territories.
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Janojee Bhonslay was at Theur at the period of Mahdoo Rao’s death; but prior to that event, he had obtained his sanction to adopt Rughoojee, the eldest son of Moodajee, who was the only one of all the brothers that had issue; and Janojee not only made the adoption, but was said to have appointed Moodajee the guardian of his heir. Janojee died in the month of May near Tooljapoor: Moodajee and Sabajee each claimed the right of guardianship; but Durya Bye, the widow of Janojee, resisted the pretensions of both, assumed the government, and appointed Sabajee her general and Dewan. Moodajee, unfortunately for himself and his son, had hitherto maintained a connexion with Rugonath Rao, and his pretensions not being supported by Narrain Rao¹ or his ministers, he could only levy troops and assert his cause by force of arms. The Peishwa in vain interposed his advice: Moodajee’s party were much discouraged by the defection of a considerable number of the choice troops, who carried with them the Juree Putka of the Sena Sahib Soobeh; but notwithstanding the evil presage which this created amongst his men, he attacked his brother at Koombaree near Ankolah, where he was defeated with severe loss and compelled to flee with precipitation. The Peishwa’s agent at last procured a cessation of hostilities, but the brothers had scarcely met, when Durya Bye, quitting Sabajee,² joined Moodajee. The latter again took the field, obtained the aid of Ismael Khan Patan, Governor of Elichpoor, and renewed hostilities. Sabajee applied to the Nizam and solicited the Peishwa’s assistance; Rugonath Rao exhorted Moodajee to persevere; the Nizam joined Sabajee¹; but the attention of all India was arrested, and there was a momentary pause in the bustle of political affairs, by reports, which proved correct, of the murder of Narrain Rao Peishwa on the 30th of August.²
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¹ The Peishwa’s government acknowledged Sabajee as Sena Sahib Soobeh, as he is so styled in an original agreement of four articles, by which he becomes bound to fulfil the conditions of the agreement entered into by Janojee.
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² Durya Bye was probably actuated by Sabajee’s having been acknowledged as Sena Sahib Soobeh, which, if admitted, at once set aside her pretensions as guardian.
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¹ Mahratta MSS.
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² Mr. Mostyn’s Report.
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It appeared that on the morning of that day there had been considerable commotion amongst the regular infantry in the Peishwa’s service, and it increased so much towards noon, that after an interview with Rughoojee Angria, who had just arrived from Kolabah to pay his respects, Narrain Rao, before he went to dinner, told Hurry Punt Phurkay to take some precautions in case of disturbance, meaning that he should secure the palace. Hurry Punt, however, thoughtlessly neglected these orders and went to dine with a friend in the neighbourhood.³ The Peishwa in the afternoon had retired to repose in his private apartments, when he was awoke by a great tumult in the palace, caused by a large body of infantry, who, having continued their clamours for pay throughout the day, were at last, about two o’clock, led to the palace by Somer Sing and Mohummud Yeesoof on pretence of demanding their arrears. Khurruk Sing, one of their number, who commanded at the palace guard, joined them; but instead of entering at the large gate on the north side, to which there was no impediment, they made their way by an unfinished doorway on the east side, which, together with the wall surrounding the palace, had been pulled down a short time before, to make an entrance distinct from that of the quarter inhabited by Rugonath Rao. Narrain Rao, on starting from sleep, neither resolved on concealment nor defence, but ran to his uncle’s apartments, and being closely pursued by Somer Sing he threw himself into his uncle’s arms, and called on him to save him. Rugonath Rao did interfere and begged of them to spare him. ‘I have not gone thus far to ensure my own destruction,’ replied Somer Sing: ‘let him go or you shall die with him.’ Rugonath Rao disengaged himself and got out upon the terrace; Narrain Rao attempted to follow him, but Truleea Powar, one of the Mahratta domestics of Rugonath Rao, who was armed, seized him by the legs and pulled him down, at which instant another domestic named Chapajee Teleekur in the service of Narrain Rao, entered the apartment, and, although unarmed, ran forward to his master, who clasped his arms about his neck, when Somer Sing and Truleea Powar dispatched them both with their swords. Whilst this was passing in the interior, the whole of the outer wall of the palace was secured by the conspirators; the people in the city heard of a tumult, armed men thronged in the streets, the shops were shut, and the inhabitants ran to and fro in consternation, asking what had happened. Sukaram Bappoo repaired to the Kotwal's Chowree, or office of the police magistrate, where word being brought to him that Rugonath Rao was not only alive, but had sent out assurances to the people that all was quiet, and had even invited some of them to go inside, Sukaram directed Hurry Punt Phurkay to write a note to Rugonath Rao in his name, which Rugonath Rao answered in his own hand-writing, informing him of the murder of his nephew by some of the Gardees (regular infantry). Hurry Punt Phurkay then declared that suspicions which he had entertained of Rugonath Rao were confirmed; and alarmed for his personal safety, he instantly fled to Baramuttee. Sukaram Bappoo tranquillized the minds of the people, by recommending them to go to their homes and to remain quiet, when nothing should molest them. Bujaba Poorundhuree and Mallojee Ghorepuray had an interview with Rugonath Rao that night; and Trimbuck Rao Mama, repairing to the palace, bore off the body of the unfortunate Peishwa and performed the funeral obsequies.
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³ In consequence probably of this neglect, Hurry Punt, it would seem, was accused of being one of the partisans of Rugoba, which decidedly was not the case.
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Visitors were admitted to the palace; Mr. Mostyn, the English envoy, and the different wukeels paid their respects, but Rugonath Rao remained in confinement, detained, as was pretended by the conspirators, as a security for the payment of their arrears. Rugonath Rao was suspected, but there was no proof of his being the author of the outrage. It was well known that he had an affection for his nephew, and the ministers, considering the extreme jealousy with which many of them viewed each other, are entitled to some praise for having adopted a resolution on the occasion equally sound and politic. They were generally of opinion that, whilst there remained a shadow of doubt, it was on every account advisable to support Rugoba’s right to the succession; to this Ram Shastree, who was consulted, made no objections, but diligently instituted a search into the whole transaction. About six weeks after the event, having obtained proofs against Rugonath Rao, the Shastree waited upon him and accused him of having given an authority to Somer Sing and Mohummud Yeesoof to commit the deed. Rugonath Rao is said to have acknowledged to Ram Shastree that he had written an order to those men, authorizing them to seize Narrain Rao, but that he had never given the order to kill him. This admission is generally supposed to have been literally true; for by the original paper, afterwards recovered by Ram Shastree, it was found that the word *dhurawè*, to seize, was altered to *marawè*, to kill. It is universally believed that the alteration was made by the infamous Anundee Bye; and although Rugonath Rao’s own conduct, in subsequently withholding protection even at the hazard of his life, sufficiently justifies the suspicion of his being fully aware of it, the moderate and general opinion in the Mahratta country is that he did not intend to murder his nephew; that he was exasperated by his confinement, and excited by the desperate counsels of his wife, to whom is also attributed the activity of the domestic, Truleea Powar,¹ who was set on by the vindictive malice of that bad woman.
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¹ It was given out that this domestic was actuated by motives of personal revenge, in consequence of having been publicly flogged by Narrain Rao’s orders. He was executed for the murder of Narrain Rao several years afterwards by Nana Furnuwees.
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After Rugonath Rao had avowed his having so far participated in the fall of his nephew, he asked Ram Shastree what atonement he could make. ‘The sacrifice of your own life,’ replied the undaunted and virtuous Shastree, ‘for your future life cannot be passed in amendment; neither you nor your government can prosper; and for my own part I will neither accept of employment nor enter Poona, whilst you preside in the administration.’ He kept his word, and retired to a sequestered village near Waee.
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In the meantime the arrears were discharged, Rugonath Rao was released, and his adopted son, Amrut Rao, attended by Bujaba Poorundhuree, was dispatched to Satara for the clothes of investiture, which were brought back accordingly, and Rugonath Rao was proclaimed Peishwa. Sukaram Bappoo was confirmed as Karbaree; but Chintoo Wittul and Sewdasheo Ramchundur, the son of Ramchundur Baba Shenwee, were the most confidential of the new Peishwa’s ministers.¹
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