A History of the Mahrattas v2.c42.48

v2.c42.48

We now return to explain the cause of Pureshram Bhow’s sudden retreat from Bednore, which was occasioned by his learning that Kummur-ud-deen had marched from Seringapatam with a strong force of infantry, for the purpose of entrapping him in the woods, and although success would have more than excused his proceedings at the Poona court, his failure, should he be afterwards hemmed in, would have ruined both himself and his army; for Nana Furnuwees, though he at first took little notice of the Bhow’s intention, no sooner found that it was generally understood, than he ordered him to desist and proceed to Seringapatam. Lord Cornwallis, after he laid siege to that fortress, had pressingly written to Pureshram Bhow, describing the manner in which he had invested it, and pointing out the essential service that might be rendered by his cavalry if posted on the south face of the fortress; but Pureshram Bhow disregarded the application until he received the information already mentioned. By the time, however, that he reached Seringapatam, the armistice was signed, and although Lord Cornwallis scarcely noticed his faithless conduct, it has been a theme of just censure; nor can Nana Furnuwees be exempted from a share of blame, for when urged by Mr. Malet to expedite the Bhow’s advance to the capital, he started difficulties as to the scarcity which his junction would occasion in the grand army, and would no doubt have been well pleased to effect a conquest which had been a favourite object with his great master, the first Mahdoo Rao.