A History of the Mahrattas v2.c56.17

v2.c56.17

Wuzeer Mohummud appeared most ready to embrace the terms, and it was in consequence intimated to Sindia by the Resident in his camp, that the principality of Bhopaul was under British protection. Sindia protested most vehemently against the measure; declared the Nabob to be his dependant, and in defiance of the assembled armies threatened an immediate attack upon him. His battalions advanced, and although under a certain assurance that an attack on Bhopaul would occasion an immediate rupture with the English, Sindia for a time seemed quite determined to risk the event; but his actions fell short of his words; and ultimately his army was withdrawn. His conduct was to be accounted for in the unfavourable commencement and brilliant termination of the Nepaul war; but the first impressions throughout India respecting that warfare inspired hopes in all who wished the overthrow of the British power. Of that number, the Peishwa, from the time he was guided by the councils of Trimbukjee Dainglia, and especially after having instigated and participated in his crimes, may be considered the chief; it was, however, at one time supposed that the plan of the general confederacy already men-