A History of the Mahrattas v2.c42.23.3

v2.c42.23.3

after which, leaving a strong garrison in his new acquisition, he proceeded to join the army at Seringapatam.¹ The other Mahratta army, acting on the north-western quarter of Tippoo’s territory, whose operations before Dharwar have been detailed, was now also advancing by orders from Hurry Punt towards Seringapatam. After the termination of the siege of Dharwar, a part of the British detachment was recalled to Bombay, and Captain Little with three native battalions, the two with which he entered on the campaign having been much weakened by casualties, continued with Pureshram Bhow: The possession of Dharwar and the forts taken by the Moghuls gave the allies a strong hold on the country situated between the Kistna and Toongbuddra; Kooshgul and several other places of less note surrendered to Pureshram Bhow at the first summons; and the occupation of the country, with the consequent realization of revenue, became so inviting to the Mahratta general that he soon evinced a greater care of his own interests, than those of the confederacy. It was recommended that he should join the Bombay army under General Abercromby, then on its march from Malabar towards the capital of Mysore, through the territory of a friendly chieftain, the Raja of Koorg. The Mahratta army under Pureshram Bhow had been greatly increased during the siege of Dharwar; he crossed the Toongbuddra on the 22d April, and arrived within twenty-four miles of Chittledroog on the 29th of that month.