New History of the Marathas v3.c37.s3.4

v3.c37.s3.4

the Peshwa. Nana at this time was in extreme anxiety about his own safety and would not undertake to decide the point of the Peshwa's participating in the war, either for or against Tipu. He left the choice entirely to Bajirao. The only man fit to lead the Maratha troops was Parashuram Bhau who was then engaged in a life and death struggle with Kolhapur. Bajirao never possessed decision and as usual wasted time by assuring Palmer that he was preparing for the expedition, fully believing that the war would go on for quite a long time and that he would ultimately join the winning side. Nana, however, gave the Peshwa a written warning against delay. News soon arrived that Tipu had been killed in one swift action on 4th May and Bajirao was dumb-founded. Tipu's dominions were reduced, a major part being handed back to the old Hindu Raja of Mysore, some territories were appropriated by the Nizam and the English as suited their existing frontiers, and a small portion was reserved for Bajirao's acceptance if he complied with the following conditions :—