A History of the Mahrattas v2.c37.50

v2.c37.50

was deemed improper; but they afterwards behaved with such extraordinary valour that their name of grenadier battalion was restored in 1783. They distinguished themselves during the arduous campaign in the Concan, which will be presently detailed. For their conduct in the battle of Paniany, by the side of the 42d regiment, they received the highest compliment ever paid to a Sepoy regiment. ‘The Royal Highlanders,’ says Colonel M’Leod, in his dispatch of the 29th of November, 1782, evinced the ardour which always inspires their countrymen in battle. The eighth battalion of Sepoys showed themselves equal to any troops in courage, coolness, and discipline.’ They then petitioned through Colonel M’Leod to have their name restored; but it was refused. In the following year, however, the eighth battalion formed part of the garrison which maintained the heroic defence of Mangalore, and their name was restored, as the only reward, which the sickly, famished men, on their return to Bombay, solicited. They were long fortunate in a succession of excellent commanding officers; and on every occasion of service the spirit of Stewart and of Hartley has lived in their ranks.