New History of the Marathas v2.c31.26

v2.c31.26

4. Maratha-Nizam hostilities.—The situation thus became one of the gravest danger to the Maratha State, threatening its entire independence. The treasury of Poona was empty, the army already depleted by desertions, lacked equipment. Such a critical moment, however, served to unite the divergent elements and the common danger induced the various parties in the Peshwa's Darbar to lay aside their differences and join in repelling the hostile combination. Madhavrao wrote pathetic letters to his mother, describing the state of affairs and the need of a joint effort, which both his uncle and Sakharam Bapu now wholeheartedly undertook to lead. They had about 50 thousand men under their command but lacked the means to face the enemy’s powerful artillery in an open action. Avoiding a close engagement, they decided to wear out the enemy by laying waste his territory and keeping him on the run. In a revengeful temper R’rao turned from Miraj north towards Aurangabad. As the combined armies of Janoji and Nizam Ali moved along the Bhima ravaging the Peshwa’s territory, the Marathas similarly began to ravage the Nizam’s territory, and early in March attacked Aurangabad, but failed in making any effect upon the town which was stoutly defended by Murad Khan. In order to save the city, Murad Khan paid 2 lacs. Malharrao Holkar joined the Peshwa’s army near Aurangabad on 10th March, and the whole body started with great impetuosity towards Malkapur devastating the Bhosle’s territory.