The Author of this work desiring, for military reasons, to withhold his
name, the Publishers feel it due to the public to vouch for the
authenticity of the "Diary," by stating that the Author is an officer of
the Staff of the Anglo-Indian Army, and was in Lucknow during the whole
of the siege; as, indeed, will be apparent from the full details he has
given of all that transpired in the garrison.
They beg to add that the only alteration made by them is the
substitution of the most recent and complete list of the killed and
wounded during the defence, as given in the "Homeward Mail," for the
list appended to the MS. They have also added the eloquent despatch of
Brigadier Inglis, recording the services of the garrison.
65, CORNHILL:
_Feb. 25th, 1858_.
DIARY OF
EVENTS AT LUCKNOW.
For about ten days previous to the outbreak, daily reports were made
that an _émeute_ was intended, and Sir H. M. Lawrence had ordered all
kinds of stores to be purchased and stored in the "Muchee Bhawun" and
the City Residency. But latterly the intelligence began to excite less
attention, as so many days had passed away which had been named for the
outbreak. On the evening of the 30th May, however, a sepoy of the 13th
Native Infantry, who had shortly before received a reward from Sir Henry
Lawrence for having assisted in the capture of a spy, came to Captain
Wilson of the 13th Native Infantry, Assistant Adjutant-General, and said
he could not help reporting that there would be a rising amongst the
sepoy regiments, to be commenced in the lines of the 71st Native
Infantry that evening at about 8 or 9 P.M.; but he was not certain at
what hour. His manner in giving this information was _earnest_ and
_impressive_.
On that evening everything went on as usual; all remained quiet in the
cantonments, where Sir Henry Lawrence was residing. Some days previously
the ladies and children had been removed to the Residency in the city,
which place had already been occupied by a party of the 32nd Foot and
two guns. The 9 P.M. gun was fired, and was evidently the preconcerted
signal for the mutiny; for a few minutes after, whilst Sir Henry
Lawrence and his staff were at dinner at the Residency, a sepoy came
running in and reported a disturbance in the lines. Two shots were heard
in the 71st lines. The horses of the staff were at once ordered, and
they proceeded to the lines. On the way, more dropping shots were heard
from the left of the 71st lines. The party arrived in the camp, where
about 300 men of Her Majesty's 32nd, with four guns of Major Kaye's
battery, and two guns of the Oude Irregular Force were posted, and found
them all on the alert. These were posted in a position on the extreme
right of the 71st lines (the whole front of which they swept), and they
were also contiguous to the road leading from cantonments to the city.
Sir Henry Lawrence immediately took two guns and a company of the 32nd
with him on the road leading to the town, and there took post; thereby
blocking up the road, and effectually cutting off all access to the
city. He sent back soon after for reinforcements of the Europeans and
for two more guns. In the meantime, the officers of the several
regiments had proceeded at once to their respective lines. Bands of
insurgents had meanwhile made their way amongst the officers' bungalows,
keeping up as they went a desultory fire, which prevented many from
passing the roads towards the lines. One of the first of these parties
made straight for the mess house of the 71st Native Infantry, whence the
officers had escaped but a few minutes before. They exhibited great
bloodthirstiness, making every search for the officers, and ending by
firing the house. On several shots being fired from the 71st lines on
the 32nd Foot and guns, the order was given to open with grape; on which
a rush was made by the sepoys to the rear; when they passed the infantry
picket, which is situate in the centre of cantonments. The picket was
under the command of Lieutenant Grant of the 71st Native Infantry. His
men remained with him till the mutineers were close upon him. They then
broke; but the subadar of the guard, and some men of the 13th and 48th
Regiments, composing the guard, tried to save him by placing him under a
bed. A man of the 71st Native Infantry, who was on guard with him,
however, discovered the place of his concealment to the mutineers, and
he was there brutally murdered--receiving no less than fifteen bayonet
wounds, besides some from musket balls.
From the first, Lieutenant Hardinge, taking with him some few sowars of
his Irregular Cavalry, patrolled up and down the main street of the
cantonments, and went to the officers' messes on the chance of saving
any lives. In the compound of the 71st mess, he was fired at by a
mutineer, who then rushed upon him with his bayonet, which pierced his
arm. More than once the cantonments were thus patrolled by Lieutenant
Hardinge under a smart fire, with the same humane intentions; but not in
sufficient force to prevent the burning and plundering of the officers'
bungalows, and of the bazaars. The excitement in the lines continued;
while the 32nd remained quietly in position, awaiting the advent of the
remnants of the regiments who had remained true to their colours. A
remnant of the 13th Native Infantry, about 200 men, with colours and
treasure, came up; and, according to previous arrangement, joined and
fell in on the right of the 32nd. A small portion of the 71st, without
being able to save their colours or their treasure, (through the
disaffection of the native officer on duty,) also came up and took post
next the 32nd Foot. Of the 48th, nothing was heard till 10 A.M. next
day. About 10 o'clock P.M. many of the mutineers had made their way up
to some empty artillery lines, outside the 71st Native Infantry lines,
whence they commenced firing. Brigadier Handscomb, who had come up from
the rear of the 71st lines, was killed by a stray shot from this place:
just as he had reached the left flank of the 32nd, he fell dead off his
horse. The bungalows throughout the cantonments were most of them on
fire. No attempt was subsequently made to attack the position. To secure
the Residency bungalow, and that portion of the cantonment next the city
road, 4 guns and a company and a half were taken up to the cantonment
Residency, and the guns placed at each gate. All was now quiet, and the
remainder of the night passed away without any further event. Nothing
had been seen or heard of the 48th Native Infantry. Many officers had
most wonderful escapes from death. Lieutenant and Adjutant Chambers of
the 13th Native Infantry, was severely wounded in the leg, whilst
effecting his escape from the magazine where he had taken a guard of his
regiment.
_May 31st._--At daylight, the force, consisting of some companies of Her
Majesty's 32nd Foot, and the remnants of the native regiments, about 100
men 71st, and 220 men 13th Native Infantry, with part of the 7th
Cavalry, and four guns, advanced down the parade in front of the lines
of the several regiments. From the lines of the 13th Native Infantry
about fifty men came, and said they had saved the magazine of that
regiment. Hearing that the body of the rebels had retired towards the
race course, where they had plundered the lines of the 7th Cavalry, and
murdered Cornet Raleigh of that regiment (who had been left there sick)
the whole force of cavalry and infantry, with four guns, proceeded
thither, leaving Colonel Case with a portion of the 32nd in position in
cantonments. On arriving in the open plain, a body of about 1200 men
were seen in line in the distance, drawn up to the race course. Many of
the cavalry galloped over at once to the insurgents. The guns then
opened with round shot, which dispersed them, and they made the best of
their way across country, followed immediately by the cavalry and guns,
and, at a greater distance by the infantry. No opportunity offered for
the guns to again open, owing to the celerity of their flight; but the
cavalry hovered round and took about sixty prisoners, who were brought
into cantonments. The pursuit continued in the same order until the guns
were stopped by a nullah, over which they could not cross. The cavalry,
however, continued their pursuit; and kept it up for some ten miles. By
10 A.M. the force had returned to cantonments, as the heat was excessive.
As most of the bungalows were burned (the officers having lost
everything) the troops were moved into camp,--the 32nd and guns into the
position they held formerly; the native regiments next them on the
right; and in the following order:--13th next the 32nd, the 71st next,
then the 48th, with the 7th Cavalry on the extreme right. The usual
guards were kept by the native regiments, and the cantonments regularly
occupied. Owing to this, the neighbouring country seemed to be
reassured. Supplies came in regularly, and in plenty. The exertions of
all were redoubled to complete the defences, and collect stores and
supplies in Muchee Bhawun and the city Residency. The former post,
originally occupied by the dependants of the late king, had been
selected by Sir Henry Lawrence as a fitting place of security and
retreat, in case matters took an unfavourable turn. On the 16th of May,
immediately on the receipt of intelligence from Meerut of the
commencement of the outbreak, this stronghold, then in a very
dilapidated condition, was occupied by the light company of the 13th and
some guns, and measures were taken for its thorough cleansing. Supplies
continued to be brought in and stored.
On the evening of the day on which the troops returned from the pursuit
of the rebels, an insurrection took place in the city towards
Hosainabad; the standard of the prophet was raised, and other means of
religious persuasion used to excite the populace. The police of the
city, under the energetic superintendence of Captain Carnegie, behaved
well, and the movement was at once quelled, and the standard taken. News
of the _émeute_ at this place had by this time reached the district, and
the rising of the neighbouring stations was to be looked for.
On the afternoon of the 4th June, parties of ladies and officers of the
41st Native Infantry, escorted by about twenty-five men of the regiment,
who had remained faithful, came in, bringing the news of the mutiny at
Seetapore, and of the deaths of Lieutenant-Colonel Birch, commanding the
regiment there, of Mr. Christian, and of other civilians and ladies. On
the 5th, news came of the mutiny at Cawnpore, but no particulars.
Reports of all kinds were rife among the Bazaars; but no authentic
intelligence could be procured, as the telegraph wire was cut. From
Benares the news came in of the 37th Native Infantry having mutinied,
and of their having been overpowered by the rest of the force there. But
nothing further transpired, for from that day to the 10th instant, the
communication was _in toto_ interrupted.
_June 10th._--The defences at the city Residency, as well as the Muchee
Bhawun, were increased, and houses and buildings around them began at
once to be demolished. Large stacks of firewood were made, and houses
and tents set apart for the occupation of the European refugees, who
were arriving from the districts daily. Provisions of all sorts
continued to be stored, including 110 hogsheads of beer just arrived
from Cawnpore.
Besides the two important posts noted above, the range of buildings
towards the Hosainabad quarter of the town were occupied by 2000 police
under the direction of Captain Carnegie; a thousand more were ordered to
be raised, and officers of the 41st were put in command of each of the
police battalions. This day we heard, by native report, that General
Wheeler was defending himself in the entrenchments at Cawnpore; but no
letter was received.
_June 11th._--Early this morning a false alarm was brought in from the
Cawnpore road, that the enemy was upon us. Captain Evans, who had been
sent out to gain information, returned with the above report, which
created for a short period some needless alarm. We continued hard at
work getting in supplies and adding to our defences. Many vague reports
of disturbances were in circulation to-day.
_June 12th._--On this day an instance of disaffection from within the
camp occurred. The regiment of military police, commanded by Captain
Orr, mutinied in a body, rushed to their lines, seized their arms, and
then set off in the direction of Cawnpore, giving themselves no time to
inflict any damage in their quarter of the city. So great was their
haste, that they failed to empty their own barracks, and left behind
them their clothes and baggage. Information of this was given to
headquarters; on which two guns of Major Kaye's battery, two companies
of Her Majesty's 32nd, and some seventy Seikhs of the 1st Oude Irregular
Cavalry, the whole under the command of Colonel Inglis, were despatched
after them. They were pursued for some eight miles before they were come
up with, and it was only by pushing on the cavalry and guns, without
waiting for the slower movements of the infantry, that they were
overtaken at all.
The guns opened fire as soon as practicable; they had come up well over
some difficult ground, but their horses were, in consequence, so done
up, that there was some difficulty in taking up the most desirable
position. Once the cavalry charged well, but neither the result of their
charge, nor of the practice of the artillery, was such as might have
been expected. The enemy's loss was not exactly ascertained, but it was
supposed that they had some twenty killed, and ten prisoners were
brought in. Of Captain Forbes's men, two Pathans were killed on the
spot; and some others, including a gallant old native officer, wounded.
Mr. Thornhill, of the civil service, charging with them, was also
wounded. All this time the infantry were far behind, unable to get up. A
village lay to the front, in which many of the insurgents had taken
refuge. Colonel Inglis forbade its bombardment, as it would have
entailed much injury to innocent villagers; and the evening was, by that
time, so far advanced, that the measure would probably not have sufficed
to dislodge the mutineers.
About an hour remained to sunset; the guns and cavalry were a long way
from the infantry, and many miles further from home. A return movement
was therefore ordered, and accomplished successfully: the whole force
returned about 8 o'clock, having gone over some sixteen or eighteen
miles of ground.
The Europeans had marched well to the front. It was a hard day's work
for them, and two men were lost from apoplexy, for the heat was dreadful.
On this day the horses of the men of the 7th Cavalry were brought down
and picketed close to the Baillie Guard; as, with a very few exceptions,
the 13th, 48th, and 71st Regiments of Native Infantry and 7th Cavalry
had been ordered to proceed on leave till October, and their arms and
accoutrements were brought down and deposited in the Residency. (Vide
No. 1 in the Appendix.)
_June 13th._--Shot and shell both brought down to the garrison from
Muchee Bhawun (about three-quarters of a mile). Unabated exertions to
add to the defences of the garrison.
The 13th Regiment of Native Infantry, 170 rank and file, came down from
cantonments and encamped in the Residency compound. Ineffectual efforts
to blow down the _Furrahd Buksh_ Gateway. Three or four cases of cholera
occurred at Fort Muchee Bhawun. Officers' servants began to desert.
Intelligence was received from Fyzabad of the mutiny of all the troops
there. Heat beyond endurance. Garrison in good spirits, and much elated
at the brush after the Police Corps. Little reliance was placed in
natives, and every possible precaution was taken to prevent any
treachery. The native gunners, both in the Residency and at the Muchee
Bhawun, were so posted as to be under the immediate fire of the
Europeans, who watched them carefully both day and night. An officer was
on duty at the gate all day long, to observe all incomers, and to
prevent arms being brought in by others than those who had received
passes.
_June 14th._--Supplies of shot and shell brought in from Muchee Bhawun.
Every exertion made to increase the defences of the garrisons. No
reliable intelligence was procurable of the state of affairs at
Cawnpore. Many idle rumours afloat, but not corroborated, with regard to
a reinforcement of Europeans having arrived at that station from the
north-west. Heat excessive. Several cases of cholera and smallpox. A few
cases of the former disease proved fatal in Muchee Bhawun. Hardinge's
corps still steady. About 200 of the Oude Irregular Cavalry deserted
last night.
_June 15th._--A hundred barrels of gunpowder brought from the Muchee
Bhawun, and buried in the Residency enclosure. Shot and shell continued
to be brought into garrison from Muchee Bhawun. Uncovenanted
servants were drilled with muskets. A tragic event occurred this
day:--Serjeant-major K., 7th Light Cavalry, shot with a pistol,
Riding-master Edridge, 7th Light Cavalry, in the heat of an argument.
The riding-master died a few hours after. No reliable intelligence was
procured from Cawnpore, though vague reports were in circulation. The
death of Lieutenant-Colonel Fisher, commanding 15th Irregular Cavalry,
by the hands of his own men, was reported.
Captain Gall's servant returned to the garrison this day, reporting his
master's death, which took place by stratagem, and by the hands of his
own men. Captain Gall was proceeding in disguise _en route_ to
Allahabad, with twelve sowars of his own corps, and had proceeded about
fifty miles on his way, when his murder took place. All officers of the
cantonments were ordered down to the garrison, with the exception of the
commanding officers and regimental staff. Twenty-three lacs of rupees
were buried close in front of the Residency, for security, and to avoid
the necessity of guards and sentries over it. Rum and porter (one-half)
was received into the Residency from Muchee Bhawun. Fever was prevalent.
The Seikhs of the 13th Native Infantry, numbering about fifty men, were
formed, at their own request, into a company, under the command of
Captain Germon, and sent to Muchee Bhawun. Spare clothing of the 13th
was brought in from cantonments. Continued efforts were made to blow up
the Furrah Buksh Gate. The flooring of the first story fell in this day.
_June 16th._--A quantity of shot and shells came in from Muchee Bhawun;
also an 18-pounder gun. The shot was piled, as far as possible. On this
date, there were seven 18-pounders in position. The whole day was
expended in working hard at a battery in a position commanding the
Cawnpore-road, and in unroofing houses, burying powder, &c. The gate
leading into the Furrah Buksh came down in the course of the forenoon
with a great crash, after many futile attempts had been made for its
destruction. This was an important point gained, as the Residency
compound was quite commanded from the top of this gate.
This morning, twenty-two conspirators, emissaries from Benares and
elsewhere, who had been sent to corrupt the troops at this place, were
captured in a house in the centre of the city. Information having been
given to Captain Hughes, commanding the 4th Irregular Infantry, he
directed two staunch native officers to put themselves on the watch, and
to pretend participation in the disaffection. This they did, and by this
means, with Captain Carnegie's assistance, Captain Hughes was enabled to
effect the capture of these inciters to mutiny. They were forthwith
brought to a drum-head court-martial and the whole of them condemned to
death.
_June 17th._--This morning, four of the men sentenced yesterday, were
hanged at the Muchee Bhawun; the remaining eighteen were liberated, as
some doubts were entertained of their guilt.
Vague and most contradictory rumours came in this day about Cawnpore,
but no authentic intelligence could be gained. The intelligence
department, under the supervision of Mr. Gubbins, with two assistants,
seemed to experience great difficulty in procuring reliable
intelligence. Amongst others, Colonel Palmer, commanding the 48th
Regiment Native Infantry, came in from the cantonments, waited on the
Brigadier-General, and reported large assemblies of men near
cantonments, the immediate abandonment of which he most earnestly
advocated.
Although there yet remained some twenty-five lacs in the treasury, the
expenditure had been on such an enormous scale during the last week,
that cash payments were suspended, unless in exceptional cases. The
money rewards, &c., promised to men of the several infantry regiments,
whose good behaviour had been conspicuous on the night of the mutiny,
were discharged by promissory notes. Major Apthorp of the 41st Native
Infantry had an advance made to him to pay up and discharge twenty-five
of his men who had escorted in the officers and ladies from Seetapore;
as it was reported by one of his drummers, that even these faithful few,
who had all been promised promotion by Sir Henry Lawrence for their
fidelity on that occasion, had expressed themselves to the effect that
if Rajah Maun Singh came against them, they would all have to go over,
and would murder their officers.
_June 18th._--The force at the Residency, consisting of the regular
troops, civilians, volunteers of all sorts, and, in fact, every man
within the defences not incapacitated by sickness, were ordered by Sir
Henry Lawrence to parade at sunrise. Every man was to be at the post he
was to occupy in case of an attack; and those to whom no posts had been
assigned mustered in front of the Residency, for the purpose of having a
post or duty assigned them. The Brigadier-General inspected the whole of
them, and visited all the outposts and picquets.
In the evening of the same day the force was paraded a second time, and
minutely inspected by Colonel Inglis. A body of fifty volunteers,
belonging to the several offices, had been trained and drilled to use
firearms. To them was entrusted the defence of two outposts near the
Post-office, which place had been made a very strong position. The
officers comprising the volunteer corps of cavalry were also given arms,
to be able to make a stand and defend themselves within their own
quarters. They furnished sentries at night, and exercised a supervision
over some seventy Seikh sowars, the remains of the Oude Irregular
Cavalry. These, as well as the body of clerks, &c., mentioned above,
were in all respects armed and accoutred like private soldiers. Besides
this, many of the volunteers and officers were instructed in gun drill;
and, at the Muchee Bhawun, by Sir Henry's directions, some fifty or
sixty of the 32nd Foot were told off for the same work. A very strong
battery (the Redan) was commenced this day; it completely commanded the
iron bridge and the road leading to cantonments.
The servants of Captains Staples, 7th Cavalry, and Burmester, 48th
Native Infantry, returned and reported the murder of those officers
whose heads, they stated, were carried to the Nana at Cawnpore; and that
Lieutenant Boulton, of the 7th-Cavalry, jumped his horse into the river,
and nothing further had been heard of him. Owing to the want of rain,
the heat had now become intense. Cholera and dysentery were on the
increase; chiefly at the Muchee Bhawun.
Reports came in of some bodies of the enemy being at a place called
Nawab Gunge, about eighteen miles from Lucknow, and Captain Forbes, with
twenty Sikhs and ten of the volunteer cavalry corps, was sent out there
to ascertain the presence or otherwise of the enemy. They returned in
the evening bringing information that there was no one. The company of
the 10th Oude Irregular Force was brought down from the Dâk Bungalow to
the jail. This regiment was the last to give way at Seetapore, and it
was reported they did not molest their officers.
Quantities of bhoosa were collected and stored within the Racket Court,
which was now half full.
_June 19th._--This morning Sir Henry Lawrence inspected the Muchee
Bhawun minutely. More small arm ammunition was brought in from thence to
the Residency.
A fresh case of smallpox occurred today (Mr. Bird, who was immediately
removed to a tent in the compound). The uncovenanted volunteers were
again minutely inspected this afternoon. The engineer officers were very
hard at work completing the batteries and defences. Upwards of 3000
coolies were at work unroofing houses in the vicinity of our defences.
From cantonments all the spare baggage, &c. was brought in, and every
preparation made to prevent confusion in case the position there should
be abandoned. In the city of Lucknow everything remained perfectly
quiet,--the administration of justice was in no way impeded. Grain was
stored in large quantities in the church.
_June 20th._--This day, "the Redan" was completed. It consisted of one
18-pounder gun and one 9-pounder, with two mortars in their rear--the
whole commanding the iron bridge and open country across the river. The
Cawnpore 18-pounder battery was very nearly finished, and an expense
magazine establishment near it.
A letter bearing date the 18th instant was received from Cawnpore,
written by Captain Moore of Her Majesty's 32nd Foot, by direction of
General Wheeler,--it informed us, at last, of occurrences at that place.
All the numerous previous reports regarding the reinforcements of
European troops said to have been received, were thereby falsified. No
such reinforcements had ever been received. The letter informed us of
their ability to hold out for some fifteen days more. The dreadful news
of a boat load of European ladies, women, and children, from Futteghurh,
having been intercepted at Cawnpore and assassinated there, was
confirmed by natives.
Supplies continued to be stored, but they were collected with difficulty
and at increased prices.
Large stacks of firewood, which had been stored in case of difficulties,
were regularly arranged in a semicircle, protecting the front of the
Residency, and covered with earth; these formed an embankment six feet
in height, and embrasures were cut through them for the guns, of which
there were four 9-pounders on that side.
_June 21st._--Two hundred guns, many of large calibre, were found in the
gardens of the Seish Mahul, behind the Dowlut Khana (a large building on
the north side of the city). There were no carriages to them. This
startling discovery was luckily made in time. Twenty-seven guns were at
once brought in, and arrangements made for parking the remainder.
In the evening, as the church was full of grain, divine service was
performed in Mr. Gubbins's garden; and, during the night, Sir Henry
himself once more visited the outposts, which had, by this time, been
brought to a satisfactory state. The guards of the uncovenanted service
were well on the alert, and prepared for any emergency. The difficulty
of procuring all kinds of grain daily increased. Many rumours of a
strong force marching on Lucknow from Fyzabad. The force in cantonments
held in readiness to march at one hour's notice, to the Residency and
the Muchee Bhawun.
_June 22nd._--This morning Captain Radcliffe's troop of volunteer
cavalry were despatched, at 1 A.M., towards Nawab Gunge, to patrol the
roads in that direction, in conjunction with the Seikhs, in order to
gather information. About 4 o'clock A.M. a thunderstorm from the east,
with the much wished for rain, came on. It lasted no very long time, and
afforded only a temporary relief from the excessive heat.
Sir Henry Lawrence made an excursion as far as the Husainabad Kolwallee,
garrisoned by nearly 3000 police and others, and inspected them and the
defences of that place. He also visited the Dowlut Khana, an old
magazine, and on his return went over the Muchee Bhawun defences. All
our available spare carts, hackeries, and wagons, were to-day employed
in bringing in the guns found yesterday. Many of them were of large
size. The unroofing and clearing away of houses continued without
intermission, and every exertion was made to remove anything which might
afford cover in the immediate vicinity of our defences.
_June 23rd._--Two men executed this morning at the Muchee Bhawun,--the
one a mutineer (a naick of the 71st Native Infantry), the other a man
who had, on the night of the mutiny, threatened the life of Mr. Yarbury,
a merchant.
A large battery traced out, looking to the westward. It was to consist
of at least two heavy guns, and to be raised so as to bombard the town
in that direction. A considerable amount of labour would have been
required to raise it to the necessary elevation. Altogether it was the
most extensive work of the kind we had yet undertaken. An 8-inch
howitzer, which had been discovered with the other guns at the Seesh
Muhal, was mounted and placed in the Redan battery.
Captain Radcliffe's troop of volunteers, numbering forty sabres, were
drilled and exercised daily; and now that the majority of the Irregular
Cavalry had deserted, and the remainder were not considered trustworthy,
the troops supplied two mounted orderlies every morning to escort Sir
Henry Lawrence into the city.
The commanding officer of the 71st Regiment Native Infantry reported the
remnant of the Seikhs of his regiment (about twenty men, who had
remained true on the night of the _émeute_) as being in an insubordinate
state, and no longer to be trusted. Sir Henry Lawrence desired them to
be sent to him, and spoke to them. They had asked for their discharge
before, and had very precipitately been disarmed by their commanding
officer, without sufficient authority. After being spoken to by the
Brigadier-General, they professed themselves quite willing to continue
their services: they were taken at their word, their arms restored, and
were kept at the Residency under the command of an officer.
A letter was received yesterday from Cawnpore, written under the
direction of General Sir H. M. Wheeler, K.C.B., giving very bad news
indeed. It stated that the enemy shelled them for the last eight days,
which had had fearful effect within their crowded trenches, and one
third of their number had been killed.
In the meantime, the Muchee Bhawun garrison had not been idle at their
defences, and Sir Henry was constant in his visits there, as well as to
the Seesh Muhal, and Dowlut Khana. On the westward side of the Muchee
Bhawun, a heavy tower was commenced; a work of great labour, from which
a flanking fire could be given. In the vicinity of the fort, as at the
Residency, houses were unroofed, and walls pulled down, so as to leave
as little shelter as we could. Magazines were constructed, and the
powder placed in safety.
_June 24th._--Heavy clouds, and every appearance of rain throughout the
day, but none fell. Heat excessive. Sir Henry Lawrence proceeded at
daybreak as usual, attended by his staff and two orderlies from the
volunteer cavalry, and inspected the Dowlut Khana, Seesh Muhal,
Imaumbarah Kolwallee, and Muchee Bhawun; and in the evening he proceeded
five miles on the Fyzabad road, to ascertain if there was a good
position we could take up, in case of an advance of the rebels in that
direction.
The last of the guns discovered in the Seesh Muhal garden were brought
in to-day. Four of them were of very large calibre--two being
32-pounders. _Native_ reports describe the force at Cawnpore as being
hard pressed. Native reports from Allahabad were good. Much progress
made in knocking down and unroofing the houses in the _immediate_
vicinity of the Muchee Bhawun and Residency. The Racket Court was now
filled with bhoosa for the cattle, and thatched in. We were supposed to
have nearly three months' supply of provisions now stored. The mutineers
were reported to have arrived at Nawabgunge (eighteen miles distant),
and were said to have with them some sixteen guns.
_June 25th._--The tower at the Muchee Bhawun was carried on this day
with great ardour. Crowds of coolies were employed under the direction
of Lieutenant Innes of the Engineers. This defence was to command the
stone bridge, the Imaumbara, and a number of high mosques facing that
side of the Muchee Bhawun. Elephants were yoked to one of the heaviest
guns,--luckily there was some gear for the purpose, and the experiment
turned out successful.
A native rumour reported the arrival of a strong force of mutineers at
Nawabgunge, where it was said they were to remain till they had
consolidated their force. Good news came in to-day from Allahabad in a
letter from the officer commanding the 1st Madras Fusileers, dated the
18th of June, in answer to one despatched from this place on the 15th
instant. Colonel Neil's letter gave little or no detail, beyond stating
that he assumed command of the fort on the 11th instant; that there had
been much fighting, but all the mutineers were entirely broke and
dispersed, and the cantonments reoccupied. Cholera broke out on the 18th
among the Fusileers, who in two days had had amongst them 100 cases,
forty of which had proved fatal. Every effort was being made to push on
troops to Cawnpore, but the road was not open, and carriage was
difficult to procure: also that Her Majesty's 84th were close at hand,
and that the telegraphic communication had been re-established between
Calcutta and Allahabad. No authentic intelligence from Cawnpore, and
much anxiety was felt regarding the force there.
All appearance of rain had gone off, and the heat was almost
insupportable. The river had risen about a foot and a half, and was no
longer fordable. A letter was received from Mrs. Dorin, stating that she
was residing in a hut close to Seetapore, soliciting money and
assistance, and reporting the murder of her husband. Numbers of
gun-barrels and locks were brought in from the old magazine, where a
great quantity of crowsfeet were found, and ordered to be brought in
to-morrow. Behind Mr. Ommanney's house, a very large battery was
commenced by Lieutenant Hutchinson. Quantities of grass and stores were
brought in.
_June 26th._--This morning Sir Henry Lawrence, accompanied by his staff,
as usual inspected the principal buildings in the vicinity of the Muchee
Bhauwn and the new round tower, at which great progress had been made,
and in which not less than 300 coolies were at work. Proceeding thence
he inspected the newly completed defences opposite the Kolwallee. On his
return, Sir H. Lawrence received a letter from Major Raikes at
Mynpoorie, giving intelligence of the capture of the city of Delhi on
the 13th instant (this afterwards turned out to be a false report). A
royal salute was ordered to be fired from the Residency, Muchee Bhawun,
and cantonments, and a _feu-de-joie_ was fired by the Irregulars, who
were quartered in the Dowlut Khana, under the command of Brigadier Gray.
Many useful stores, consisting of unwrought materials, rope, and
platforms, were brought in from the old magazine. Considerable progress
was made in a new battery for heavy guns, which had been commenced in
the rear of Mr. Ommanney's house.
In the afternoon, a letter, dated June 23rd, was received from Colonel
Neil, commanding at Allahabad, reporting all well there; that 750
Europeans had arrived, and that 1000 more would be with him on the next
day; that every effort was being made to despatch 400 Europeans, two
guns, and 300 Seikhs to Cawnpore, but that much difficulty was
experienced in procuring carriage.
Also, at sunset, a letter was received from Sir H. M. Wheeler, K.C.B.,
dated the 24th instant, detailing his losses, and giving an account of
the outbreak, and stating that he had supplies for only eight or ten
days at the farthest. His letter was replied to at once, and he was
informed by Sir Henry Lawrence of the news received from Allahabad, and
also that in ten days at the farthest he would receive aid from
Allahabad, and that he must husband his resources as much as possible;
that the force at Lucknow was threatened by an attack from eight or ten
regiments, three or four of which were within twenty miles.
A reward of one lac of rupees was offered this day for the capture,
within a week, dead or alive, of the Nana, at Cawnpore, and means were
taken to have the proclamation widely disseminated. With the larger
battery commenced to the south, behind Mr. Ommanney's house, we had
three large batteries in progress, and were also busily employed in
destroying, as far as possible, any buildings that might give cover in
the vicinity. Five or six elephants were in course of training to drag
heavy guns, so as to enable us to move out without delay, should
circumstances require a heavy gun to be taken out.
_27th June._--This morning a letter from Lieutenant Burnes, Adjutant of
the 10th Regiment Oude Irregular Infantry, late at Seetapore, was
received. It gave an account of the mutiny at that place, and of the
escape of himself, Sir M. Jackson, Bart., and sisters (one of whom had
been carried off for some days by the sepoys and brought back), and some
others, to a place called Mitowlee, where they claimed and received the
protection (charily given) of a rajah: they were then all in the
jungles, suffering the _greatest_ hardships. It also mentioned the
safety of another party with Captain Hearsey; who, however, were also in
the jungles. Many of these seem to have had the most hairbreadth
escapes. No rain had yet fallen, and the heat was most oppressive. The
cholera had abated during the past few days, but several cases of
smallpox had, however, occurred. The river was reported to have fallen a
foot since yesterday.
A report was in circulation early in the day, that General Wheeler had
made terms with "the Nana," at Cawnpore; but few believed it, and in the
evening it was reported incorrect, as heavy firing had been heard
yesterday at Cawnpore from Bunnee. Three boxes of crow's feet and a
great number of musket-barrels and unwrought stores were brought in from
the old magazine at the Dowlut-Khana; also a very large quantity of gun
carriage-wheels. The force at Nawabgunge was said to be increasing, but
very undecided as to what to do. A great force of coolies were at work,
and much progress was made in the defences at Muchee Bhawun and the
Residency.
_28th June._--This morning, at about 3 A.M., we had a heavy fall of
rain, which continued with slight intervals till 7 A.M. Sir Henry
Lawrence proceeded to Hosainabad and examined the defensive preparations
made there; returning by the Muchee Bhawun, he found that the buildings
occupied by the 32nd had hardly leaked at all. Divine service was
performed in the City Hospital (brigade mess), occupied by the officers
of the 7th Cavalry, 13th, 48th, and 71st Native Infantry, at 7 A.M.
Spies stated that the 17th Regiment Native Infantry, numbering between
250 and 300 men, had gone with five lacs of rupees to Onao on the
Cawnpore road--it was believed with the intention of proceeding to
Cawnpore.
It having been reported that there were many jewels and valuables in the
king's palace, which might fall into the hands of the mutineers, a party
under Major Banks, consisting of fifty of the 13th, twenty Seikhs 71st
Native Infantry, and the European Volunteer Cavalry, were sent out to
fetch them in; which they did about 6 P.M., and reported that they had
discovered a large gun.
About 7 P.M. three different natives brought in the very sad and
distressing news that the Cawnpore force, having no more ammunition
left, had entered into a treaty with their enemies, after which they had
all been treacherously murdered, as they embarked in boats to proceed
down the river to Allahabad.
Mrs. Dorin, wife of Lieutenant Dorin, who lately commanded the 10th
Regiment Oude Irregular Forces, arrived this evening in a country cart,
disguised as a native, and accompanied by some clerks. She was for very
many days secreted in a village close to Seetapore, and her escape is
wonderful. The Serjeant-Major's wife of the 9th Regiment Oude Irregular
Infantry also arrived in a doolie, severely wounded. From 8 to 10
o'clock P.M. it rained heavily. A letter, dated the 21st June, received
from Benares from Mr. Gubbins, giving an account of the number of
Europeans coming up the country, and describing the state of Benares and
Allahabad; reporting also an action at Delhi on the 8th instant, when
the British troops captured twenty-six guns. News also received from
Agra by letter from Captain Nixon, political agent.
_June 29th._--This morning, a brass gun, a 21-pounder which had been
accidentally discovered yesterday by the party who had been despatched
under Major Banks, to bring in valuables from the palace (called the
"Kiser Bagh,") was brought in, carriage and waggon all completely ready
for immediate service. Some grape shot and powder, chiefly damaged, was
also discovered in an adjacent house.
The people in charge of the palace, without giving a thought to
resistance as it was at first expected they might do, nevertheless
showed an evident reluctance to give information where the arms, &c.
were stored. However, it came out at last, that there were more arms
within the palace, and a party was despatched to secure them. Seven
cart-loads were brought in; chiefly flint muskets, with a few spears,
&c.: 4 small guns were also discovered and brought in.
A small party of volunteers, cavalry (twelve men including officers),
were sent along the Cawnpore road to bring in information. After going
some twelve miles, they returned, having learnt that there were some two
or three regiments not far off them. Captain Forbes, with the Seikh
Cavalry, was sent off at sunrise to patrol the Nawabgunge road. Six men
were also sent on the Sultanpore road to gain information. Both the
parties returned at sunset, Captain Forbes bringing intelligence that
the enemy were at Chinât, nine miles off.
Our defences progressed, but labour was not so easy to procure as it had
been some days before.
* * * * *
The enemy being in strength so near, it was deemed advisable to withdraw
the troops from cantonments, which was quietly done at sunset; and it
being expected that the enemy would march on Lucknow, Sir Henry Lawrence
thought it advisable to move out with a strong force, hoping to meet and
oppose them before they entered the suburbs of the city. In order to
prevent any notice reaching the enemy of the intended movement, the
orders were not given out publicly till 3 o'clock on the following
morning, and at the same hour twenty Seikhs under Lieutenant Birch were
to be sent to the Iron Bridge, in order to prevent any one crossing over
with intelligence of the movement to the enemy.
_June 30th._--Pursuant to orders, a force, comprising 150 of the 32nd
from the Muchee Bhawun, 130 of the 13th Native Infantry, forty Seikhs of
the 13th Native Infantry, the 48th, numbering fifty bayonets, the
European cavalry thirty-six strong, the Oude Irregular Cavalry, about
ninety men, four of the guns of Kaye's battery (Europeans), two of
Alexander's guns (natives), two of Bryce's guns (natives), and an
eight-inch howitzer, found in the town a few days ago, and which was
drawn by two elephants, assembled at the iron bridge at 5·45 A.M. The
advance guard was composed of twenty-five Seikh Cavalry, and fifteen
European Cavalry; twenty Seikh Infantry, and twenty of the 32nd
Regiment, the whole under the command of Captain Stevens of the 32nd
Foot.
The eight-inch howitzer, two guns of Alexander's battery, two of Kaye's
battery, the 13th Native Infantry, two of Bryce's guns, and the
detachment of the 32nd Foot, formed the main body, and marched in the
above order. The rear guard was composed of the 48th Native Infantry,
under Colonel Palmer; the whole force being under the personal command
of Sir Henry Lawrence. It was the Brigadier-General's original intention
only to proceed to the end of the Pucka road, to the village of
Kocaralee; and on their arrival there, our force was halted, and the
Brigadier-General, with the advanced guard, proceeded about a mile to
the front, whence no one was to be seen. The force was on the point of
being ordered to return, when it was decided to make a further
reconnaissance; and soon after the enemy were fallen in with, in
overwhelming numbers, and the force was compelled to retire with the
loss of the eight-inch howitzer, and three 9-pounders.
The enemy came boldly on, and invested us on all sides, firing from all
the houses round, which they rapidly loopholed; they also erected a
hasty battery for the eight-inch howitzer across the river, from which
they threw several well-directed shells; and they began to collect boats
for a bridge across the river, the iron bridge being under fire from the
Redan.
_July 1st._--The enemy threw in a very heavy fire of musketry all day
and night. Early in the morning they advanced to attack, but were
repulsed on all sides with considerable loss from our shells, guns, and
musketry. Mr. McRae, of the Civil Engineers Department, and Lieutenant
Dashwood, 48th Native Infantry, were wounded, while assisting in working
an 18-pounder in the Post Office Battery.
During the day attempts were made to get messengers to cross over to the
Muchee Bhawun fort; two or three men started, but as their success was
very doubtful, it was determined to work the telegraph on the top of the
Residency. This had been previously arranged by the engineer in concert
with one on the Muchee Bhawun; it simply consisted of one post with a
bar at the top, from which were suspended in one row black stuffed bags,
each having its own pulley to work it. After having attracted the
attention of the Muchee Bhawun Garrison, the greatest difficulty was
found in working the telegraph, from various causes; the chief of which
was the tremendous fire which the enemy opened on the spot directly they
saw our people on the flat open roof of the Residency. It rained rifle
balls, principally from the top of the jail, and some few of the ropes
of the bags were actually cut by them; then the pulleys went wrong, and
twice the whole machine had to be taken down, and after readjustment put
up again. After three hours' hard work under a broiling sun and a heavy
fire, the transfer of messages was at last completed.
The message was simply an order to blow up the place and come to the
Residency at 12 P.M., bringing the treasure and guns, and destroying as
much as possible all spare ammunition. The night was anxiously looked
for, as the retreat of the retiring force might be intercepted, and the
enemy had the advantage of position. To help the movement, the
Brigadier-General gave orders that shortly before 12 P.M., the different
mortars and guns from our batteries should open fire, in order to
distract the attention of the enemy. This was carried out; especially
towards the iron bridge, by which the force must pass.
The movement was most successfully performed; and so quick and noiseless
was the march, that at 12·15 the head of the column was at the Lower
Water Gate. Here there was some little delay, as the force not being so
quickly expected, the gates had not been opened. A very serious accident
had nearly happened in consequence of this, for the leading men, finding
the gates closed, shouted out "Open the gates," and the artillerymen at
the guns above, which, loaded with grape, covered the entrance, mistook
the words for "Open with grape," and were already at the guns, when an
officer put them right. The whole force came in without a shot being
fired.
The explosion had not yet taken place; but soon, a shake of the earth, a
volume of fire, a terrific report, and an immense mass of black smoke
shooting far up into the air, announced to Lucknow, that 240 barrels of
gunpowder, and 594,000 rounds of ball and gun ammunition, had completed
the destruction of Muchee Bhawun, which we had with so much labour
provisioned and fortified.
_July 2nd._--Arrangements were made for posting and stationing the
Muchee Bhawun force which came in last night, and placing the
field-pieces in position; all of which Sir H. Lawrence himself
personally superintended. About 8 A.M. Sir Henry returned to the
Residency, and, being much fatigued, laid down on his bed. Soon after an
eight-inch shell from the eight-inch howitzer of the enemy, entered the
room at the window, and exploding, a fragment struck the
Brigadier-General on the upper part of the right thigh near the hip,
inflicting a fearful wound. Captain Wilson, who was standing alongside
the bed with one knee on it at the time, reading a memorandum to Sir
Henry, was knocked down by falling bricks and slightly wounded in the
back by a piece of shell. Sir H. Lawrence's nephew, Mr. Lawrence, had an
equally narrow escape, being on another bed close by: he was not hurt;
the fourth individual in the room was a native servant, who lost one of
his feet by a fragment of the shell. It was at once pronounced that Sir
Henry Lawrence's wound was mortal, and his sufferings were great. He
immediately sent for Major Banks, and appointed him to succeed him as
Chief-Commissioner, and appointed Colonel Inglis to command the troops.
He was then removed to Dr. Fayrer's house, which was somewhat less under
fire. About noon this day, a round shot came into a room on the lower
story of the residency, and shattered the thigh of Miss Palmer (daughter
of Colonel Palmer, 48th Regiment, Native Infantry) so dreadfully, that
instant amputation was obliged to be resorted to. All the garrison were
greatly grieved, and the Natives much dispirited at our severe loss, in
that popular and very distinguished officer, Sir Henry Lawrence.
A perfect hurricane of jinjal, round shot, and musketry all day and all
night. Probably not less than 10,000 men fired into our position from
the surrounding houses; the balls fell in showers, and hardly any place
was safe from them. Many of the garrison were hit in places which,
before the siege, it was considered would be perfectly safe; but the
enemy fired some of them from a great distance out of the town, from the
tops of high houses, and the balls fell everywhere.
_July 3rd._--It is difficult to chronicle the proceedings of these few
days, for everywhere confusion reigned supreme. That unfortunate day of
Chinât precipitated everything, inasmuch as we were closely shut up
several days before anything of the kind was anticipated. People had
made no arrangements for provisioning themselves: many indeed never
dreamt of such a necessity; and the few that had were generally too
late. Again, many servants were shut out the first day, and all attempts
to approach us were met by a never-ceasing fusilade. But though they
could not get in, they succeeded in getting out; and after a few days,
those who could boast of servants or attendants of any kind formed a
very small and envied minority. The servants in many instances eased
their masters of any superfluous article of value, easy of carriage. In
fact, the confusion can be better imagined than described.
The head of the Commissariat had, most unfortunately for the garrison,
received a severe wound at Chinât, which effectually deprived them of
his valuable aid. His office was all broken up; his goomastahs and
baboos were not with us, and the officers appointed to assist him were
all new hands. Besides all this, the first stores opened were
approachable only by one of the most exposed roads, and very many of the
camp followers preferred going without food to the chance of being shot.
Some did not know where to apply, so that for three or four days, many
went without rations; and this in no small degree added to the number of
desertions. Owing to these desertions, the commissariat and battery
bullocks had no attendants to look after them, and went wandering all
over the place looking for food; they tumbled into, wells, were shot
down in numbers by the enemy, and added greatly to the labour which fell
on the garrison, as fatigue parties of civilians and officers, after
being in the defences all day repelling the enemy's attack, were often
employed six and seven hours burying cattle killed during the day, and
which from the excessive heat became offensive in a few hours. The
artillery and other horses were everywhere to be seen loose, fighting
and tearing at one another, driven mad for want of food and water; the
garrison being too busily employed in the trenches to be able to secure
them.
Poor Sir H. Lawrence suffered somewhat less to-day, but was sinking
fast, and at times his mind wandered. A tremendous fire all day, more
particularly on the Baillie Guard and Dr. Fayrer's house where Sir Henry
was lying. We thus early in the siege learnt that all our proceedings
inside were known (through some party or other) to our enemies. Miss
Palmer died to-day, and Mr. Ommanney of the Civil Service, was
dangerously wounded under the ear by a grape shot, while in the Redan
battery.
_July 4th._--A tremendous fire all night; but no effort was made to
storm our position. To the great grief of our garrison, Sir Henry
Lawrence died this morning about 8 o'clock, from the effects of his
wound. Shortly before his death, Mr. G. H. Lawrence while standing in
the front verandah of Dr. Fayrer's house, was wounded by a musket-ball
through his right shoulder.
At night, there was a great uproar in the city, which evidently
underwent a thorough plundering. Notwithstanding this, the same heavy
fire was kept up throughout the night. Every one at work trying to throw
up some shelter for himself. In the course of the day, a 9-pounder,
brought by the insurgents and placed behind a small mosque close to our
furthest water-gate, was spiked by a private of the 32nd and four others
from Innes' post, who shot four of the enemy. The enemy were taken by
surprise while at their dinner.
_July 5th._--From 2 till 6 o'clock A.M., heavy rain; and extremely heavy
firing all day. Several casualties among our garrison. A soldier of the
32nd was said to have killed five men in ten shots from the Cawnpore
battery, which was subjected to a very severe musketry fire. Continued
efforts were made to collect all the horses and secure them, but it was
impossible to do anything during the day. The fire was so heavy, and the
night was so dark, it was difficult to get hold of the animals, who were
half mad; added to which four or five horses were killed daily, which
had to be buried at night by parties of officers, who, after being
exposed to a fearful sun in the trenches all day, were often out in the
rain till 12 and 1 o'clock in the morning, engaged in burying horses and
bullocks, in order to prevent the dreadful stench which would otherwise
have been increased, and which had already become almost insupportable.
_July 6th._--The usual amount of musketry and cannon fire all the
morning: about 2 o'clock in the afternoon it became very severe,
especially towards the Baillie Guard, which seemed the favourite point
to-day for the heaviest fire. A heavy cannonade heard about three miles
off for about half an hour. About 4 _P.M._ the flashes of the guns were
distinctly seen. The cause was unknown. The enemy digging trenches in
all directions. The carriage of one of our 9-pounders was disabled by
the enemy.
_July 7th._--A heavy fire all the morning.
A sortie was made by fifty of the 32nd and twenty Sikhs, led by Captain
Lawrence, Captain Mansfield, Ensign Green, 13th Native Infantry, and
Ensign Studdy,--the latter led. The storming took place at noon. The
object was to examine M. Johannes' house, and discover if the enemy were
driving mines: it was perfectly successful, and fifteen or twenty of the
enemy were killed. Our loss was one Seikh and one 32nd slightly, and one
32nd severely wounded.
This afternoon a very sad event occurred. Major Francis, 13th Native
Infantry, who had commanded at the Muchee Bhawun, and who was in command
of the brigade mess square, was struck in the legs by a round shot,
which completely fractured both legs, rendering amputation of one
_immediate_, and great fears were entertained for the other. He was a
brave, good officer, and much respected by all, and one in whom Sir
Henry Lawrence had much confidence. The calm manner in which he bore his
misfortune, gained him the sympathies of all. Not a murmur escaped him;
his only anxiety being a hope that the authorities would bear testimony
that he had performed his duty. The Rev. Mr. Polehampton, military
chaplain, was severely wounded in the side this day, by a rifle ball,
while in hospital. One of the walls of the Racket Court, now used as a
bhoosa gadown, fell in, and a quantity of the bhoosa became exposed in
consequence. All spare tarpaulings were immediately supplied to cover,
it, and officers and men worked hard for two hours, in a deluge of rain.
The rains, so long expected, seem now fairly set in. It commenced
raining heavily at 2 P.M., and continued pouring down the whole night.
_July 8th._--All very much as usual, and very heavy rain fell, which
somewhat abated the enemy's fire. Every effort was made to put the place
in some kind of order and to feed the bullocks.
Poor Major Francis insensible and sinking: he died at 7 P.M.; and was
buried by a party of officers close to Mr. Ommanney's grave. Every
effort was made to curtail the expenditure of provision, and officers
were placed on half rations every third day. Very few servants remained,
and most of the officers had none. All were on duty thirteen and twenty
hours a day; and constant alarms took place at night, rendering it
necessary for all to stand to their arms. Fears were entertained of the
bhoosah stack taking fire, as the outer wall of the Racket Court had
fallen down and left it exposed. All available officers and men worked
hard, in heavy rain, to get it covered in again with tarpaulins. Twelve
Seikhs of the 13th Native Infantry deserted last night. All the Hindoos
and Mussulmans of the 13th, 48th, and 71st behaved nobly.
_July 9th._--Much rain fell during the morning. About 4 A.M. the enemy
made an attack on the Baillie Guard Gate, and about 300 showed
themselves, shouting and sounding the "Advance," on the bugle; but being
received with a few rounds of grape, and a steady fire from the 13th,
they speedily disappeared. Very much the same thing occurred soon after
at the Cawnpore battery. Continued firing all day.
This was now the tenth day of the siege, and the heavy musketry fire on
every side had never for an instant ceased night or day; and at times
the fire was terrific. Many casualties occurred, and our want of
protection at the different crossings over from one side of the
Residency compound to the other, was very much felt. To-day, an
excellent soldier, and a man greatly respected, Mr. Bryson, formerly
Serjeant-major of the 16th Lancers, was shot through the head, while
endeavouring to strengthen his post. The enemy appeared to have had some
excellent marksmen. The commissariat began to work well, and all were
well supplied. The officers were placed, however, on half rations every
third day as a precautionary measure. Lieutenant Dashwood of the 48th
Native Infantry, died of cholera after a few hours' illness.
_July 10th._--This morning the enemy's fire was continued much as usual.
A sepoy of the 13th was killed early in the morning, and later in the
day a private of the 32nd Foot and an artilleryman were wounded. The
horses of the cavalry and the artillery, which, during the first days of
the siege, were loose and driven nearly mad from hunger and thirst,
galloping about and creating the greatest confusion, had now been nearly
all turned out, though not without much trouble; and fifty of the best
were retained, and secured in the Seikh square. All the bullocks were
now also secured, and arrangements made for feeding and watering them;
but numbers of horses and bullocks died, and their burial at night by
working parties, in addition to nightly fatigue parties for the purpose
of burying the dead, carrying up supplies from exposed positions,
repairing entrenchments, draining, and altering the position of guns, in
addition to attending on the wounded, caused excessive fatigue to the
thin garrison, who had but little rest night or day: there were few
officers with more than one servant, and one third certainly had _none_.
In all duties, the officers equally shared the labours with the men,
carrying loads and digging pits for putrid animals, at night, in heavy
rain. All exerted themselves to the utmost, alternately exposed to a
burning sun and heavy rain. Towards the middle of the day, the enemy
fired less than they had previously done on any occasion since the siege
commenced.
We received no news from any quarter, but sent off many letters. Every
exertion was made to grind up the wheat in store by hand-mills; and this
day thirteen maunds and two seers were ground. The firing towards the
afternoon to-day was very slack, comparatively speaking. There was a
comparatively slight cannonade. An injured 9-pounder in the Cawnpore
battery was removed by us and replaced by another.
_July 11th._--About 1 o'clock this morning the whole force stood to
their arms, in consequence of some information which was received,
reporting that an attack was immediately intended. The force remained
prepared till daylight, when, as usual, a smart firing on all sides
began. An artilleryman was killed at Captain Simmons's battery. The
enemy fired several round shot, and were most persevering in keeping us
on the alert, and worrying us as much as possible. Their fire had never
yet ceased day or night: sometimes it was heavier than at others, but it
never abated altogether on any side.
At night the officers buried a horse which had died close to the brigade
square; the night was intensely hot and close, and the labour was
excessive:--the horse having died on the Pucka road, had to be dragged
to a considerable distance before a grave could be dug. A great many of
the stores were also brought up from the church by the assistance of a
fatigue party of officers, who had all the carts to load and unload. Two
of the 32nd Foot were killed during the night, which passed off with a
heavy fire.
_July 12th._--The heat still excessive, and the fatigue of the garrison
was _very_ great. Enemy were most persevering, and loopholed every place
within fifty or sixty yards of our defences. They were evidently
determined to do their best to get into the position, and had closed in
on every side. We had no intelligence from any quarter; for though we
had sent out many messengers, not one returned.
About 8 o'clock in the evening the enemy made an attempt to attack the
Baillie Gate; but fell back, on being received with shells and musketry.
About 12 P.M. they renewed their efforts on Mr. Gubbins's side with
similar effect. They repeatedly sounded the advance, and were frequently
heard abusing each other for not advancing. In half an hour they
retired, and for the rest of the night they contented themselves with a
heavy fire on the Cawnpore battery.
_July 13th._--The heat was dreadful, and garrison were greatly fatigued.
The enemy reoccupied Johannes's house, and fired smartly down the
street, killing two sepoys and wounding a conductor: they also pushed
close up under the Redan, and greatly annoyed our outposts. Lieutenant
Charlton of the 32nd Foot was shot through the head in the church, and
very dangerously wounded. Several shells were fired into Johannes's
house, and the walls of the house opposite to it were loopholed.
Nevertheless we could not dislodge them, and they annoyed us greatly.
The Havildar-major of the 13th was wounded through the thigh to-day.
The enemy possessed many excellent marksmen, and fired so many shots
from every point that it was exceedingly dangerous to be seen anywhere,
even for an instant: they fired several logs of wood bound with iron,
and were evidently at this period hard up for round shot. In the evening
they fired several carcases, and succeeded once in setting the Residency
on fire; but it was soon extinguished. All the European officers
laboured hard to get the supplies out of the church.
_July 14th._--Heavy rain, thunder and lightning, and night intensely
dark. No alarms, and less firing than usual. Heavy rain at daybreak,
which cleared off at 9 o'clock, when the enemy assembled in force. They
were apparently undecided how to act, for they moved about in various
directions, and in about half an hour retired altogether; but they fired
many carcases, shot, and logs of wood shod with iron, and displayed
several new batteries. We threw up a traverse near the Post-office gate,
in order to save our people from the fire from Johannes's house, which
was very sharp. Our sharp-shooters killed four of the enemy in
Johannes's house. Four Seikhs of the 13th deserted, leaving their arms
and accoutrements. Still no information of any kind.
Enemy erecting new batteries; one of which opened about 5 P.M. with a
9-pounder on the gable end of the brigade mess, occupied by the ladies
and children, and the roof of which was held by a party of officers,
assisted by six men of the 32nd. At the first discharge, a soldier of
the 32nd had his thigh fractured, rendering amputation necessary. They
fired several iron shot, which tore away the parapet; but fortunately no
one else was hurt. The night was very dark, and the enemy fired a great
deal; more particularly on Mr. Gubbins's post, where Lieutenant Lester
was mortally wounded: towards daylight the fire abated. Several cases of
cholera. The enemy's fire to-day destroyed a 9-pounder of ours, smashing
the axle tree all to pieces.
_July 15th._--The enemy opened fire from their 9-pounder battery,
situated about fifty yards from the end of the brigade mess, and fired
many shots; but the garrison laid close, and up to 3 P.M. no casualties
occurred. Towards the middle of the day, the enemy's fire lulled to a
greater extent than it had ever done since the siege commenced.
The stores out of Anderson's house got in; the house being entirely
destroyed by round shot; though still nobly held by the garrison. A
mortar moved down to the gate of the Post-office, behind the traverse,
and several shells were thrown into Johannes's house. All much as usual.
The enemy fired three rounds of grape into the Redan battery during the
night, but fortunately hit no one.
_July 16th._--The heat during the night was fearful. A slight alarm
about 2 A.M., but it was soon over. The enemy fired smartly throughout
the night, and in the morning sent several round shot through the roof
of the brigade mess, and hit the Residency. They were busy, besides,
making batteries in the garden of Johannes's house, and opposite the
13th and the Cawnpore battery.
We shelled the enemy heavily during the forenoon, throwing them far into
the town and across the river. Lieutenant Bryce was badly wounded in the
thigh early this morning; and later in the day, Lieutenant O'Brien of
the 84th was shot through the arm. In the evening the enemy kept up a
heavy fusilade, and we shelled them smartly; they fired a shell which
narrowly escaped falling into our bhoosah stack. At half-past 11
o'clock, they fired a good deal on the Cawnpore battery, and made a
feint of attacking, but finding us well on the alert did not do so. Our
wheat-grinding operations continued, and we now had hand-mills
sufficiently well worked to grind twenty maunds of atta daily. During
the night we threw up a stockade and traverse, as a protection against
the musketry which swept the entrance of the Residency.
_July 17th._--The heat excessive. A very heavy fire during the night,
and the garrison kept on the alert, preventing rest and greatly
fatiguing all. Several cases of cholera and deaths of children occurred.
Twenty-two maunds of wheat were ground.
To-day a bad accident occurred: Lieutenant Alexander, of the Artillery,
and Captain Barlow, 50th Native Infantry, in firing a mortar, were most
severely burnt by the piece going off at the time of loading. The enemy
sent two shells into the Residency which exploded, but fortunately
caused no loss of life. The stench from putrid animals was most
offensive. Painful boils about the head were very prevalent. The wounded
doing well. The prisoners and main guard removed to another place, in
order to give more room at the hospital.
The enemy were busy making more batteries and intrenchments. In the
night about 12 o'clock, the enemy made an attack on Mr. Gubbins's
position, but were received with a steady fire, and soon driven back.
_July 18th._--Rain began falling about 4 A.M. and continued to do so
till 8 A.M., when the heat became insufferable. The enemy fired several
round shot, which hit the brigade mess; and they also took up an
annoying position in one of the towers which remained of the Ferad Buksh
gate. They were, however, speedily dislodged by a few exceedingly
well-directed shots from Lieutenant Bonham, from an 18-pounder in the
Post-office. Two children died of cholera. In the evening the enemy
fired many round shot into the Post-office, Dr. Fayrer's, Mr. Gubbins's
and the brigade mess house: they evidently had been reinforced in guns.
At night, Brigadier Inglis, Captain Wilson, Lieutenant Innes, and Ensign
Birch, proceeded to the gate with eight Europeans, and dragged in a body
that was seen lying near the gate, and which it was supposed might be
the body of one of our spies shot coming in. It was safely brought in,
and found to be the corpse of a woman. Nothing was found on the body.
The enemy got into the turret on the top of Mr. Johannes' house, and
fired into the Cawnpore battery: fortunately no casualties occurred, and
the night, which was fearfully oppressive, passed away with a heavy fire
from the enemy.
_July 19th._--Dreadful heat: cloudy, but no rain. Enemy fired round shot
all the morning. About half-past 9 a large shot passed through a room in
the Residency, in which the officers were at breakfast, fracturing the
leg of Lieutenant Harmer, 32nd Foot, but providentially injuring no one
else; about the same time Lieutenant Arthur, 7th Cavalry, was shot dead
(through the heart) in the Cawnpore battery. Our 18-pounder fired
several shots, and we threw several shells. The enemy seemed to be at
work at the Muchee Bhawun, probably looking for shot which had been
buried in the ruins.
About 12 o'clock to-day the enemy sounded the advance, and threatened an
attack on the Redan. A few shells, however, soon made them give up all
idea of coming on. They got into Johannes' house in force, and fired
steadily into the cook-house of the brigade mess.
Much drunkenness prevailed amongst a few of the garrison, who had stolen
quantities of liquor, which could not be discovered. From the
commencement of the siege, the large quantities of liquor in the hands
of the merchants caused much anxiety, and every possible endeavour was
made to get it all into safe custody. One or two alarms during the early
part of the night. Mr. Polehampton (wounded and in hospital) died this
day from cholera.
_July 20th._--From midnight the enemy remained unusually quiet, and at
daylight all seemed much as usual. About half-past 8 A.M. it was
reported that a very large body of men could be seen marching about in
different directions within a few hundred yards of our position. A sharp
look-out was kept, and the garrison stood to their arms. At a
quarter-past 10, the enemy sprung a mine inside the water gate, and
about twenty-five yards from our inner defences: the explosion was
great, and was evidently intended to have blown up our Redan battery,
and also to act as a signal; for immediately the dust and smote
subsided, a very heavy fire of round shot was commenced from every gun
that the enemy possessed, followed immediately almost by a terrific fire
of musketry, under which the enemy made an attempt to storm the Redan
and Innes' house. The garrison were ready, and every one at his post,
and the attack was coolly met and repulsed; however the enemy advanced
boldly and came up within twenty-five yards of the battery in immense
force, but were unable to withstand the fire of our men.
They made a similar attempt on Innes' house, but were similarly repulsed
by the garrison, consisting of twelve men of the 32nd, twelve of the
13th Native Infantry, and a few uncovenanted gentlemen, under Ensign
Loughnan (who distinguished himself greatly): very great loss was
inflicted on the enemy, who repeatedly tried to advance, but were driven
back each time with much slaughter. Finding their efforts useless, the
enemy fell back, and contented themselves with throwing in a terrific
storm of musketry; from which we shielded our men as much as possible,
by keeping them laid under our defences. Almost at the same time an
attack was made on the Cawnpore Battery, but the enemy's standard-bearer
(who advanced bravely) being shot in the ditch of the battery, the rest
fell back. The enemy now moved towards Lieutenant Anderson's house and
Captain Germon's post, with scaling-ladders, but were well received and
fell back with much loss. The attack was now over, though for the rest
of the day, until 4 P.M., the enemy threw in a heavy fire; when it
gradually subsided: the attack was mostly confined to the points above
noted.
In the afternoon they succeeded in making a lodgment in some pucka
cook-houses inside our abattis, and began to use a crowbar, which was
distinctly heard. We made a hole through to them from above, through
which they fired, injuring no one; but on our throwing down some hand
grenades, they fled across the road, two being shot by the officers who
were watching from above. The 13th, 71st, and 48th sepoys all behaved
well, and the manner in which the outposts were held, was beyond all
praise. The uncovenanted distinguished themselves greatly. We had
fortunately only four men killed, and some twelve wounded: Captain
Forbes, Lieutenant Grant, Lieutenant Edmonstone, and Mr. Hely, were
wounded. All were under arms from eight in the morning until eight at
night, and greatly fatigued and worn out.
_July 21st._--All very quiet during the night. The enemy were probably
fatigued with their exertions yesterday, for throughout the night only a
few round shot were thrown in. About 10 A.M. the enemy lodged themselves
in some force in the low buildings between the Seikh courtyard and Mr.
Gubbins's post, but were driven out by a few shells, and were fired on
by the officers of the brigade mess, as they ran across a small lane:
they did not attempt to reoccupy the position during the day. About 12
o'clock, Major Banks was killed by a musket-shot through the head, as he
was reconnoitring from the top of an outhouse. Mr. Gubbins's garrison
was fired on smartly during the morning, and many round shot were sent
into Mr. Gubbins's house; the garrison of which had many alarms during
the day. Painful boils very prevalent. A dreadful stench pervaded the
place in consequence of the number of dead horses and bullocks, which,
lying direct under the fire of the enemy, we were unable to remove.
Excessive heat, and several cases of cholera. Great fatigue; no news.
Poor Dr. Brydon severely wounded in Mr. Gubbins's house. Two Europeans
killed, and two wounded; also one of the 13th sepoys.
_July 22nd._--Very heavy rain began to fall at 1 A.M., and continued
till 8 A.M., when it cleared off. During the heavy rain, the enemy only
fired slightly. After 8 A.M. it became more brisk, and they fired
several round shot, but were not very active during the forenoon.
Cholera still prevalent. Our numerical strength much diminished, as we
had had 151 casualties in the 32nd Regiment alone. The enemy moved the
8-inch howitzer from its old position, and brought it across the river
by elephants, with a tumbril behind it. Up to this date, we had no
intelligence of any kind from any quarter, and, indeed, we had received
none since the 27th ultimo. Many messengers were sent with letters, but
not a single line did we receive in reply. A letter was sent off to
Cawnpore to-day, and conveyed by a man named Ram Singh, a Seikh subadar
of the 63rd Native Infantry. The enemy steadily loop-holing all the
houses close round about, and evidently up to some new attempt at our
position.
At dusk heavy rain; we got out a strong working party, and opened our
large powder magazine, and after much labour and exertion got up 150
barrels out of the 240 we had buried. The night was pitch dark, and the
rain fell heavily, and the work being outside of our entrenchment, over
which all the barrels had to be handed out of mud knee deep, rendered
the work fearfully fatiguing. Many of the officers and civilians worked
for five hours at this work. Only a few shots during the night. Boils
still very prevalent. A Seikh from the cavalry deserted. One or two
cases of cholera. Mortification having set in, Mr. Hely's arm was
amputated.
The buildings outside Mr. Gubbins's position were shelled at sunset, and
after we had driven the enemy out, we made a sortie through the wall (in
which we had cut a large hole), and rushed out and examined the houses
in which the enemy had been. We failed to find any trace of mining. We
lost one man of the 32nd, killed. Mrs. Dorin was killed dead by a musket
ball in Mr. Gubbins's house to-day.
_July 23rd._--Very heavy rain during the night. About 2 A.M. the enemy
sounded the "turn out," and at 3 the "assembly." About 1 A.M. a native
pensioner, who left us on the 27th to gain information, came in, and
said he had been confined by the enemy thirteen days, but had been to
Cawnpore and left it two days ago,--that a British force with twelve
guns was there; that they had fought three times with the Nana's troops,
and had completely beaten them, taking many guns, and that they were
crossing the river preparatory to advancing to our assistance. He stated
that he had not brought a letter, for fear of being detained by the
enemy; he vouched to the truth of his statement, declined a pecuniary
reward, and was urgent to go back quickly while it rained heavily and
all was quiet comparatively. He left in two hours, taking a small note
for the officer commanding the forces.
At daylight there were fewer of the enemy than we had yet seen about,
and those less active; though they still fired smartly all around.
Stench from dead animals in some parts dreadful; as we had very few
servants of any kind and our fighting men were so few and so harassed,
that we were helpless to bury them. Heavy showers both day and night,
keeping the garrison constantly drenched to the skin, and making all
most uncomfortable; particularly as few had a change of clothes. Enemy
fired slackly during the afternoon. Cannonaded their bridge of boats,
which was broken by our 18-pounder shot. Several cases of smallpox. Sick
and wounded much crowded. The upper story of the hospital being under
fire of round shot, the wounded were, from the commencement of the
siege, confined to the ground floor, which with difficulty contained
their beds. At night it rained hard; and in spite of all difficulties,
we succeeded in getting up the remaining ninety barrels of powder, and
safely deposited them in the centre of our position. A false alarm about
12 o'clock at night, that the enemy had got into the churchyard.
_July 24th._--Morning fair and cloudy. The enemy endeavoured to repair
the bridge of boats, but were prevented by the fire of our 18-pounder.
The heat and stench terrible, and the flies were beyond endurance,
contesting every particle of food with us, and preventing all attempts
at rest during the day. Only a few round shot thrown, but the enemy
actively at work about forty yards from the Redan battery, in a deep
trench. Advantage taken of the temporary lull to repair some of our
defences, which had sunk a great deal in consequence of the heavy rain;
but our men, reduced in numbers and harassed to death day and night,
were not capable of any prolonged exertion. Every possible effort was
made to grind wheat, and from twenty-five to thirty hand-mills were kept
steadily at work, producing an average of twenty maunds of flour daily.
The 48th Regiment Native Infantry have had seven, and the 71st Regiment,
upwards of fifty desertions, since the commencement of the siege.
About dusk, the enemy, for the first time, sent in many shells; which,
however, caused no loss, fortunately. The commissariat department busy
with the stores, getting ghee up from the Round House; while a fatigue
party of officers, under Captain Radcliffe, threw up earth, and
heightened the traverse across the road, near the Post-office gate.
Lieutenant Hutchinson, of the Engineers, accompanied by Lieutenant
Birch, crept down in the dark, and examined, as well as they could, the
enemy's works in the immediate vicinity of the Redan. Night dark and
cloudy.
_July 25th._--The night passed away tolerably quietly; the enemy firing
several 18-pound shot into the Cawnpore battery. At daylight they were
tolerably quiet, contenting themselves with musketry; but about 8 A.M.
they fired an 8-inch shell, which fell through the centre of the roof of
the Post-office, and lodged on the table on which the officers of that
post breakfasted; fortunately it did not explode, and no mischief was
done. Immediately after, several shells, apparently thrown out of
mortars, were thrown in, and continued to be so during the forenoon. One
fell in the verandah of the Post-office, and shattered the hand of an
artilleryman. Two men of the 32nd were shot this morning by the enemy's
sharp-shooters. Still not one word of intelligence from any quarter,
though this was now the twenty-sixth day we had been besieged. We knew
nothing; but the most absurd rumours were afloat amongst the natives,
and indeed among many of the Europeans, who were credulous enough to
believe them. Removed the powder out of the place in which we had it, to
a tykhana under the Begum Kotee which the engineers considered safer
than where it was first removed to. Very slight firing on the river
side, but the enemy still very active near the Redan. Much difference of
opinion existed as to the object of the work; the majority believed that
they were mining, while the engineers thought they were only making a
trench. Although the earlier part of the morning had been quiet enough,
towards 11 and 12 o'clock, a very sharp fire was opened and maintained
on the side of the Post-office and Cawnpore battery.
The casualties on this side alone amounted to six, besides three others
in different places, which made the total of the day's casualties one of
the heaviest on record. Towards evening the enemy commenced shelling us.
Seven shells were sent in, but did no damage. Opinions differed whether
they were discharged from howitzers or mortars.
About 11 P.M. a pensioner, who had been sent out from this on the 22nd
instant with a letter, effected his entrance into Mr. Gubbins's
compound, and produced a letter which he had brought back from the camp.
He was at once brought to Brigadier Inglis and examined. The
letter proved to be one from Lieutenant-Colonel Fraser Tytler,
Quartermaster-General with General Havelock's force. It was determined
to transmit to General Havelock by this man a plan of our position and
of the roads approaching it, with memoranda drawn up by the engineers.
_July 26th._--At daybreak cloudy and sultry: enemy tolerably quiet, but
about 8 A.M. they threw in several shells. From 11 to 1 very heavy rain,
and a partial cessation from firing, during which Lieutenant Lewin of
the Artillery, who was reconnoitring from the Cawnpore battery, was shot
dead by one of the enemy's sharp-shooters. Enemy recommenced shelling
from the city side: few of them to be seen, all being under cover.
Supposed to be mining at the Cawnpore battery. A countermine commenced
by us, out of the house next the battery; but having no workmen except
our harassed soldiers, the work was slow; however, as the engineers
seemed to entertain little or no doubt but that the enemy were mining,
it was necessary to endeavour to counteract them. Little musketry fire
during the afternoon; the enemy throwing in heavy shot, fired at a great
elevation (apparently out of howitzer). One or two cases of cholera.
Garrison in good spirits at the prospect of early relief.
A letter and plan of our position forwarded at night by a messenger to
the officer commanding the relieving force: 5000 rupees promised the
messenger if he brought a reply. Suddenly at 10 P.M. the enemy commenced
a heavy fire along the whole of the city front of our position; but
nothing came of it, as after a few shells had been thrown amongst them,
their fire gradually subsided, and all became tolerably quiet again.
During this heavy firing, a sad accident occurred; Lieutenant Shepherd
of the 7th Cavalry being shot dead in the brigade square, by a shot
fired from the top of the brigade mess by one of our garrison. This was
the only casualty of the night.
_July 27th._--From midnight all quiet, save the usual musketry fire.
Cloudy, sultry weather. About 7 A.M. two planks were observed laid
across the road in front of Johannes' house. They were not seen the
night before, and being carefully watched, a man's hand was seen coming
up from below; and soon after some eight feet of earth fell in, showing
the direction of a mine of the enemy right across the road, and pointing
direct for our stockade, within six feet of which it had apparently
reached. This was a most fortunate discovery for us: they had evidently
kept this mine too near the surface, and the heavy rain had broken it
in. Our mine continued to be pushed on as rapidly as possible, and our
sharp-shooters from the top of the brigade mess kept up so hot a fire on
the enemy's sap from above, that they could make no attempt to repair
the mischief. Much fever prevalent, consequent on being constantly wet
day and night.
Towards the afternoon, the enemy again covered their trench with boards;
but we got a mortar under our wall, and after one or two failures, a
shell fell right into the hole and blew all the planks away, leaving the
remains of the trench exposed to view, giving us no further anxiety.
Fine weather in the afternoon. Enemy heard mining towards the brigadier
mess; on which a shaft was commenced by the officers, and the enemy
ceased working. Late in the evening, the enemy were very distinctly
heard mining towards the Seikh lines; on which the Seikhs, under
Lieutenant Hardinge, commenced and sunk an eight feet shaft; hearing us,
the enemy seemed to stop working. All quiet, with the exception of the
usual amount of firing. Fever, diarrhoea, dysentery, and painful boils,
from constant wet and exposure, still prevalent amongst the garrison.
Mrs. Grant (wife of Lieutenant Grant) died of cholera. Captain Boileau,
7th Cavalry, was wounded to-day.
_July 28th._--Much shouting and bugling amongst the enemy during the
early part of the morning: heavy rain at daylight. Made repairs to the
Redan battery, also made a small field work for a 9-pounder. Sickness
much increased, and for many days past only one engineer officer was
available for duty: hard work, privation, and exposure day and night to
wet and heat, few could long stand against. We had no further news of
our coming friends, but trusted that to-day they would reach Bunnee.
The enemy threw in several shells, also a number of stink-pots, which
were a very curious composition of large pieces of our exploded iron
shell sewn up in canvas, and surrounded by flax and resin, with dry
powder in the centre: these, from the commencement of the siege, had
been thrown in daily from a howitzer; they made a fearful hissing noise
and great stench, and finally exploded. They were not very dangerous,
unless they exploded _very_ close to a person. We also had a few rockets
thrown in, but not many; and lately a number of shrapnel shells, fired
apparently from a howitzer with a very great elevation. The enemy's
miners could now be distinctly heard working close to the Seikh Square
sap.
The room in the Residency containing the jewellery and valuables
belonging to the late King of Oude, was broken into last night by some
of the garrison, and most of them stolen. Enemy tolerably quiet in the
afternoon. About 5 P.M. our sap in the Seikh Square, which had been
going on as fast as we could push it in the direction of the enemy's,
met theirs, which they continued to work to the last moment. On our
crowbar, however, going through into their gallery, they instantly fled
out of it, and commenced to fill in their shaft. We immediately made use
of their gallery, and blew the whole up with 100 lbs. of powder, which
brought down all the adjacent houses, &c. After this the enemy tolerably
quiet. Good progress made in our Cawnpore sap.
_July 29th._--A fine moonlight night. Enemy fired many round shot about
daylight, and also musketry from the houses across the road; they also
threw in many carcases, which nearly all fell in the vicinity of the
Cawnpore battery. No intelligence. All were anxious for the relieving
force, which we thought could not be far off. Our Cawnpore sap loaded
with 200lbs. of powder, ready to explode whenever it might be thought
most advisable. Colonel Halford, 71st Regiment Native Infantry, who had
been long ill, died this morning.
A few convalescents joined the ranks, giving more room in the hospital,
which was greatly overcrowded in consequence of all the patients being
obliged to be kept on the ground floor, as also the state prisoners and
their servants; the round shot passing so frequently through the upper
story as to make it impossible to make use of it. Rumour stated that the
enemy had gone out in force to meet our coming army, and had left two or
three regiments of infantry, and a body of military police, to keep us
in; but it was most difficult to tell what force we had opposed to us,
as the enemy seldom or never showed in any number, but kept in the
houses under cover, occasionally yelling, bugling, and throwing in a
heavy fire, then subsiding into the usual steady fire which went on
night and day.
Firing of cannon heard in the direction of Cawnpore. We hoped it was our
friends. All anxious, but all conjecture. Enemy recommenced mining
towards our mine in the Cawnpore battery. About 6 P.M., a heavy firing
was heard for about five minutes in the road from Cawnpore, and in about
half an hour, several guns were heard in the direction of cantonments;
this made us think it was a salute fired by the enemy for some reason or
other; probably to reassure themselves. However, all is conjecture; but
it threw our garrison into a great state of excitement, and many (indeed
most) stoutly maintained it was our force. About 300 or 400 sepoys were
seen at the same time running across the iron bridge towards cantonments
in great haste. We fired two shots at them with an 18-pounder.
The excitement gradually cooled down; the enemy keeping up their usual
fire. Another mine was discovered this evening, by a portion of it
falling in: it was running in the direction of Sago's house. Lieutenant
Grant of the Bombay army, whose wife and child died a few days ago of
cholera, died in hospital this night, from the effects of his wound: his
right hand had been blown off by a hand-grenade. A fine moonlight night.
_July 30th._--From 2 A.M. till daylight heavy rain. Enemy got in close
under the wall of the Seikh lines, and began some kind of operations
against it; they were so close that no musket could be fired, being
under a projecting piece of the wall; they were, however, dislodged by a
few pistol shots, and ran off. No further incident occurred during the
night, beyond that there was the usual amount of firing into our
position, and bugling on the part of the enemy. After daylight enemy
fired slackly. Terrible stench in many parts of the garrison from
half-buried corpses and animals, which we had no time or means to bury
properly. Several cases of fever, cholera, and smallpox.
About 9 A.M. a number of sepoys and matchlockmen were seen coming along
the Cawnpore road, and for about an hour and a half a continuous stream
of men came in in detached parties of twenty and thirty: some sepoys
were among them. Slack firing during the forenoon, only a few shells and
musketry. In the afternoon, heavy rain for an hour. Unable to discover
what the enemy were about. Considerable progress made in a sap, which we
had sunk in an outhouse close to the corner of the brigade mess-house,
where most of the children and ladies were located. At first the enemy
were heard mining towards us, but since yesterday we had not heard them.
We continued, however, to steadily push our sap, hoping either to come
across that of the enemy or succeed in getting under Johannes' house;
from which they fired all day long on any one who showed himself.
Yesterday an artillery sergeant, who incautiously crossed the road
commanded from Johannes' house, was shot through both legs. The enemy
had many riflemen, and some of them were most expert shots, firing
through our loopholes.
About 8 P.M., as Captain Wilson, Lieutenant Barwell, Lieutenant James,
and Mr. Lawrence were sitting on the chubootra of the Begum Kotee, a
shell came in and exploded as it struck the parapet of the wall under
which they sat, bringing it down. Lieutenant James, who was lying
wounded on his bed, had a most wonderful escape. A large piece of
masonry, weighing upwards of a hundred weight, fell on his bed, breaking
it to pieces, and bringing him down on the ground; but he was uninjured.
Mr. Lawrence received a severe contusion on the back and head from
falling masonry; and this was the extent of the damage. Mrs. Clarke,
wife of Lieutenant Clarke of the 21st Native Infantry, died this
evening: bad food, privation, confinement, and smells of all kinds,
worked their effects.