A History of the Mahrattas v2.c53.1.3

v2.c53.1.3

Means had been taken to ascertain the extent of this impediment by a stratagem of three of the Bengal native cavalry, who, pretending to go over to the enemy, and being fired upon with blank cartridges from the trenches, had thus an opportunity of making their observations, and returned with a favourable report. The enemy, however, dammed up the ditch in front of the breach, which, on the part of the besiegers, rendered valour unavailing, and perseverance destruction. On the 10th February, the Bombay division under Major-General Jones joined the Bengal army, to assist in the siege, which was now going on by regular approaches. On the 20th of that month, another assault was made with no better success than the former. Two European regiments, one of them the hitherto brave 76th, refused to follow their officers, and thus gave the 12th regiment of Bengal Sepoys an opportunity of immortalizing themselves. Following the gallant remains of the flank companies of the 22d regiment of foot, the Sepoys advanced with the greatest alacrity, planted their colours on the top of a bastion, and it was supposed that an equal degree of ardour on the part of the 75th and 76th regiments would have made them masters of the place. Next day, the men of these regiments, when addressed by General Lake, were overpowered by shame and remorse; they volunteered to a man; and a fourth and last attempt was made on the 21st February.