A History of the Mahrattas v2.c32.151

v2.c32.151

Hyder Ally, immediately on perceiving these commotions, seized the opportunity in order to complete his conquests of the whole of the Mahratta districts south of the Toongbuddra. He attacked Sera in person, whilst his son Tippoo besieged Gurumcondah.² At the same time Busalut Jung, from Adonee, entered the Mahratta country and levied contributions as far as Hutnee and Merich. No effort could be made to save Sera and Gurumcondah; they therefore soon fell; but Wamun Rao Govind Putwurdhun and Anund Rao Rastia were detached for the protection of their own districts, and soon compelled Busalut Jung to retire. These chiefs received instructions to return to the capital as soon as possible; and Bhew Rao Yeswunt Pansia, Ramchundur Gunnesh, Visajee Kishen, and Bhowan Rao Pritee Needhee were employed in raising men in the districts, who were all to be at Poona on the Dussera. Agents were employed throughout the country to blacken the crimes of Rugoba and hold forth the justice of their cause. The ministers at the same time breathed nothing but a spirit of union and concord : they determined on obtaining the absolute submission of Rugoba ; and their active and judicious preparations for hostility showed that they understood the best means of ensuring pacification.