A History of the Mahrattas v2.c36.69

v2.c36.69

(13th.) Early on the ensuing morning the enemy’s guns opened on the village, and a body of infantry advanced to attack it. They were repulsed, but the troops were supposed by some of the officers to be dispirited; doubts of their being able to retreat began to be expressed—the Commanding Officer, instead of crushing such dangerous despondency, if whispered in his presence, was himself infected by the spreading contagion. Some desertions had taken place, and alarming reports of many more were circulated. It is under such circumstances that a good officer of Sepoys is proved. Captain Hartley addressed his men collectively and individually; there are times to assume the officer, and moments where the officer must be the acquaintance and friend. Hartley was both respected and beloved; he spoke to his men; his officers seconded him; and the desertions from his corps ceased. On the thirteenth the total loss of fighting men in the preceding day was found to amount to three hundred and fifty-two, of which fifty-six were killed, one hundred and fifty-one were wounded, and one hundred and fifty-five were missing; many of the last were supposed to have deserted. Among the killed and wounded fifteen were European officers, whose presence, even on occasions of success, is of great consequence, but at such a time it is invaluable to native troops.