Fall of the Mughal Empire v4.c44.s2.53

v4.c44.s2.53

A general fire was now opened on Sindhia’s army by all the confederate artillery, but it did little execution on account of the long range. Next Gopāl Bhāu sent some squadrons to skirmish against the Rāthors in the centre. These Deccani masters of Parthian tactics, after a little demonstration, pretended to give way. The Rāthors followed in reckless pursuit at full gallop with loud cries of victory, leaving their sheltered position on the heights. As soon as they descended into the plain and came within range, the artillery of De Boigne opened a deadly fire, mowing down hundreds among the dense Rajput masses. The remnant fled back to the hills. De Boigne followed up this success by advancing at the head of his battalions and seizing the artillery of Abdul Matlab, which was completely taken by surprise and could offer no resistance.