New History of the Marathas v2.c33.49

v2.c33.49

It is not necessary to emphasize the weakness of the Maratha character as evidenced by the divided counsel existing in the Maratha camp during the momentous expedition that has just been described. There was no controlling voice of a respected master on the spot, and it is no wonder if divergent views prevailed in questions of war and policy. Holkar never gave up his old game of shielding the Rohilla chiefs and exasperated Mahadji beyond measure. Visaji Krishna's sane and conciliatory attitude alone saved the situation. He befriended Zabeta Khan and restored his family to him on payment of a ransom. The Emperor continued to practise his treachery and managed secretly to bring about a wanton attack upon the Maratha camp at Delhi on 18th December 1772. The attack miserably failed of effect and the Emperor was compelled to make abject submission. But before the imperial administration at Delhi and in the north could settle down to normal conditions, the Peshwa was dead at Poona, and his brother the next Peshwa came to be sadly murdered, which led to the withdrawal of the Maratha forces then in the north.