Fall of the Mughal Empire v4.c56.s25.7

v4.c56.s25.7

Contrast the Marātha generalissimo’s conduct with his British opponent’s. Lake personally headed every charge of his infantry. On that eventful afternoon, while the British column was being deployed for the attack, General Lake, as ever riding in the front rank, had his horse shot under him (the second time in one day) and his coat burnt by an enemy bullet which missed his breast by the merest chance. His son George dismounted, gave his own charger to his father, and mounted a riderless horse found there. Just then a shot struck him and the gallant youth fell down senseless. The agonised father turned to look at his dying son, but it was for a moment only. At the stern call of duty natural feelings were suppressed. The General left his son’s quivering body, and instantly jumping into the saddle, rode away to lead his infantry to the charge on the right of the 76th British Foot. The scene inspired all who saw it with an indescribable ardour to be worthy of such a leader.