A History of the Mahrattas v2.c40.42

v2.c40.42

Hurry Punt’s operations, after obtaining possession of Gudjendergurh, were directed against Buhadur Benda and Kopaul; the former had been delivered up and he was in treaty for the latter, when he was astonished by information of Tippoo’s having actually crossed the Toongbuddra at Gurhghaut² with the greater part of his army in basket boats. Hurry Punt advanced towards him: but finding the ground very unfavourable for the operations of his cavalry, he encamped at the distance of ten miles, where Tippoo made two unsuccessful attempts to surprise him. Grain and forage being extremely scarce, in order to procure supplies as well as to draw Tippoo into the plain, Hurry Punt proceeded to Savanoor. Tippoo, marching along the bank of the Kistna, followed him, and encamped in a strong position within six miles of the confederates, keeping the town of Savanoor between the camps. In this situation both parties continued for fifteen days, until on the 1st of October, two hours before dawn, the Mahratta camp was alarmed by a sudden firing, which was speedily answered by the Mahratta artillery. Tippoo, who had headed the attack in person, on discovering where their guns were posted, directed his principal effort to that spot, which induced Hurry Punt to draw them off until daylight, when they again opened on the assailants. The position occupied by the Mahrattas was still very unfavourable; their horse were prevented from charging by the steep banks of a rivulet, which Tippoo cautiously refrained from crossing, and after cannonading for several hours he withdrew to his encampment.