The Military System of the Marathas, with a Brief Account of Their Maritime Activities c15.119

c15.119

What he had omitted to do in 1738 Sambhaji tried to accomplish in 1739. The Portuguese frigate *Nossa Senhora da Victoria* had convoyed forty-seven *Parangues* laden with salt to the ports of the south. As usual, on their return journey they were laden with rice for Goa and found Sambhaji’s fleet of seven *Gallivats* and ten *Pals* near Mangalore ready to contest their advance. The Portuguese frigate carried thirty-two pieces of artillery and was commanded by Antonio de Brito Freire, an officer of long experience and great reputation. On 5 March he left the *Parangues* in the harbour and boldly sallied out to fight, whereupon the Maratha fleet at once divided into two squadrons and attacked the frigate. The battle raged for a whole day, but the superior artillery of the Portuguese enabled them to inflict some damage on two of the Angria’s *Pals*. These injuries were repaired under cover of night, and the battle was renewed the following morning without, however, any better results. The Angria’s fleet eventually retired before the guns of their enemies, and Antonio de Brito Freire conducted the *Parangues* safely to Goa.²