A History of the Mahrattas v2.c44.25.1

v2.c44.25.1

do not appear to have been aware that there was a distinction between the pirates of Waree and Malwan until 1765, when, on the 7th April of that year, they concluded a treaty of nineteen articles with the Dessaye, whom they distinguished by his ancient family name of Bhonslay, or, as written in their records, the Bouncello.¹ Of this treaty not one article was observed by the Mahrattas. Mr. Mostyn was therefore deputed in 1766 to conclude some settlement, and obtained an obligation for two lacks of rupees, with a promise on the part of the Dessaye to refrain from further aggressions, on condition that the Bombay Government should restore Rairee. The money could only be raised by a mortgage on the revenues of the district of Vingorla ² for thirteen years, and to induce the mortgagee, Wittoojee Koomptee, to advance the stipulated sum, Mr. Mostyn, in addition to two hostages procured from Waree, was obliged to promise that a small factory should be established, and the English flag hoisted under the protection of a few Sepoys, to be left in the fort of Vingorla. This arrangement being concluded, Rairee was restored in the end of 1766. A very short time, however, had elapsed, when the hostages made their escape, and the agents of Wittoojee Koomptee were driven from the stations where they were collecting the revenue. Much remonstrance and negotiation followed, but nothing specific was effected.