Quick Search
Advanced
Browse Records
Personal papers > Diaries and journals
Share this page 
June 1857
 View source information (The Diary Of A Medical Officer During The Great Indian Mutiny)

click to expand Document details

<< First  < Previous  Next >  Last >>

June 1st. A great deal of firing during the night, said to be at Delhi, heavy guns being now and then audible. Some say it was the Sepoys murdering the 3rd L.C. for not assisting them yesterday. It appears that their master of ordnance — formerly a clerk in the commissariat — was killed yester­day. About seven a.m. the Ghoorkhas 2nd battalion came in from Bolundshureen, having been ordered in by the Brigadier. They were enthusiastically cheered in by the troops in camp. They are dressed almost similarly to our Rifles, and seem fine active little fellows. Their band came in playing "Rory O'More." About ten a.m. a troop of Dragoons came in, escorting ammunition and stores from Meerut, which is very acceptable at present, our shot having run short. Davenport accompanied them. He remains in charge of his regiment. Poor Moore became much worse this morning. He is in a very precarious state. Remained all quiet to-day, which is a great relief, for the Ghoorkhas will be rested and able to go in at them. All the wounded were sent in to Meerut this evening under the same troop of Dragoons, Duff going in in medical charge. Waterfield, our commissariat officer, being quite a tyro at his trade, did not provide them with any bread, so their departure was delayed until ten p.m. till it was provided. They will reach in about twelve hours. De Bourbel’s fingers (three) were removed this morning by Dr. Mackinnon. I ampu­tated Sergeant-Major Still's (of the 6th Dragoons) leg this morning. It was shattered to pieces by a round shot, but had sufficient sound flesh to get a covering by the circular operation. Doing well when put in doolie for Meerut.

June 2nd. Nothing to do this morning, all the sick having left. The Ghoorkhas having no huts have been plundering the thatching of the villages and have erected abodes for themselves. Tents are on their way from Meerut. No alarms to-day, which is wonderful. A good deal of firing in the direction of Delhi, heavy guns every now and then booming in the distance. It is said to arise from alarms of our approach, when immediately guns are fired in all directions. Poor Perkins' things were sold this morning. It is a most melancholy thing; an officer whom you saw yesterday the picture of health, in the grave, and his goods being scattered to the winds. One of his chargers was bought by Major Tombs, he having lost both his own—one wounded, the other killed. The Rifles and some of the Ghoorkhas were out burning a village about three miles on the Delhi road thisevening. It was the one they were entrenched in on the last day's fight. Cooler to-day. Strong hot wind blowing from the west.

June 3rd.    The alarm bugles sounded about four a.m. A man had heard the sound of pickaxes near the village burned last night, and without approaching nearer to recon­noitre, he galloped in with the tidings. The approach of the Chief on the other side of the city will keep them fully occupied for the present. The rebels are erecting a battery at this side of the bridge of boats across the Jumna, but they will be disappointed at our not approaching it. Walked with Davenport to the river, which I had not yet seen.    It is a slow muddy stream, in some places very deep. It is only about thirty yards across.  The bridge across it is an iron suspension one, with a wood roadway.  At the Delhi end we have erected a breastwork of sandbags and two heavy siege guns, one an 18-pounder commanding the road. The iron railing bears here and there marks of round shots which were fired at the Rifles while crossing. The clouds of dust in camp are most unpleasant, filling every corner, and at breakfast the quantities swallowed would astonish anyone at home. News has come in this afternoon that we are to remain until Harvey's Volunteer Corps comes in to take our place. The Chief has spies in Delhi. They report that in these two days' fighting the rebels lost about five hundred men. At Delhi, except some of the Meerut Sepoys and Sappers, all are in great alarm packing up their plunder, and ready to bolt on the first opportunity. One of Captain Hall's irregulars rode out to a village near Delhi and brought back word that the mutineers had left Delhi to attack the Chief. They will get nothing but hard knocks there. On the last day's fighting the Sepoys left in Delhi broke the bridge of boats, expecting that we would follow and enter with the enemy across the river. This accounts for the firing that evening.

June 4th. Firing of heavy guns again heard last night. Rode out with Davenport to where the fighting took place. The road is beautiful, and the cooing of pigeons contrasted greatly with the ravages done by men's hands. A village just beyond the toll-house is completely destroyed, and not a human being to be seen. Here and there a dead body-was lying in the hollows with dogs tearing at it; clouds of vultures, and other unclean animals, hovering about. The smell in places was disgusting. Rode to the piquet, about a mile and a half from the bridge. The view from this ridge (where the enemy's guns were placed) is most beautiful. It extends all over the Doab and up to Delhi, which, however, was covered by mist. The country is well wooded, and everything appeared peaceful and still, as if it had never seen the ravages of war. A letter from Forsyth to-day. Poor Moore died the evening of the 2nd; great extravasation of blood was found, and extensive fissuring at base and opposite side from wound. De Bourbel getting on well. The Sergeant-Major not so well. The native doctor of the 11th N.I. was flogged for having his Sergeant-Major's property in his house; he ought to have been shot. We march this evening at six p.m. For more than two hours we remained on the ridge where the fighting was, until the baggage came up, and the bridge broken down by the Engineers. We turned off the Delhi road about half a mile beyond the bridge, striking across country by a hackery track. We arrived at the banks of the Eastern Jumna Canal about three a.m., and had again to wait until the baggage came up. Along the banks of this we marched about five miles.

June 5th. This canal is the work of the great Mogul, I believe. It must have been a great undertaking for those days; its remains would still attract notice, though small compared with our works. It is beautifully planted with trees on each side, and it is the prettiest road I have seen here. There was only water here and there in it. Even here the miscreants have been at work, and one beautiful house with gardens was in ruins. We came a most roundabout way, and after leaving the shade of the trees the march was tiresome in the extreme. We did not arrive at our camping ground till nine a.m., quite done up and fit for nothing. The heavy guns, with some of the hackeries, did not arrive until three p.m. The reason of this long march (about eighteen miles) was to join thirtyelephants sent to carry our baggage. When we reached Kekra, we found that Captain Macandrew had left with them that morning for Bagh Pat. The Calcutta dak was delivered to-day ; the first for fourteen days. There had been a great panic there until the arrival of the 1st Madras Fusiliers, who are occupying the fort. The 53rd are at Allahabad ; the 84th at Cawnpore. Troops have been ordered from Ceylon, and the China expedition being stopped will furnish four regiments. It is said the Governor-General has written home for fifteen thousand men. At Moradabad the 29th N.I. have revolted, as also the 44th at Bareilly. The former were attacked by the 8th Irregular Cavalry, and many cut to pieces. Had letters from Drs. Wilson and Moir. Started again at ten p.m., all rather stiff and tired.

June 6th. The roads last night were very bad, being narrow, sandy, with high banks on each side. This caused us to proceed very slowly, and, although only eight miles, we did not arrive at our destination until 3.30 a.m. Arrived at Bagh Pat about three a.m. Found the bridge of boats still entire, which on the part of the mutineers shows great carelessness. The Jumna here is a very rapid stream, with high clay banks on the left. It is on this side the village stands. The right bank is flat and sandy. We advanced about a mile, and our camp was pitched. The baggage and heavy guns had all arrived about seven a.m. Yesterday, at the village of our encampment, we heard of Assistant-Surgeon Bateson, of the 74th N.I. He had been kept there for ten days, and passed off as a fakir. He left with the elephants in the morning. The Brigadier started early this afternoon to join the Chief. We had a most violent dust storm at six p.m., followed, as usual, by deluges of rain, thunder, etc. We received orders to start at nine, but the rain descended with redoubled fury, and we had to wait until eleven. Thenight was cloudless, and nearly a full moon served to guide us on our way. Our march was across country; seven miles of hackery track, and five of the great trunk road. The first part was pleasant enough, except from the roads being so narrow. The lanes, with hedges on each side, reminded one of home. Our course often led through rice fields, which by the rain were made very stiff. Colonel M. Mac­kenzie commanded us.

June 7th.  At daybreak we arrived at the high road, the one between Karnal and Delhi, about fourteen miles from the latter place.  We met soon after some of the 3rd I.C., who were being sent back to Meerut.   The Rajah's men were the first troops met.    One of the first persons who came out to escort us in was Sir H. Barnard, acting Com-mander-in-Chief. He was accompanied by Colonel Curzon, his military secretary. After him, officers of all grades and men of all regiments met us on our arrival. We reached our position about seven a.m.  Not a tent or hackery came up until nearly nine a.m., so we had to make the test of it beneath trees. The troops assembled here are the 9th Lancers, 1st and 3rd Bengal Fusiliers, H.M. 75th, H.M. 60th, 6thDragoon Guards, etc., etc.    The first brigade consists of the 2nd Bengal Fusiliers, H.M. 60th, and the Sirmoor battalion; the second, H.M. 75th, 1st Fusiliers; the cavalry brigade of the Lancers   and Carabiniers. The artillery under Brigadier Wilson. The first brigade is commanded by Brigadier Showers; the second by Brigadier Graves; the cavalry by Brigadier Grant, 9th Lancers. The enemy have taken up an entrenched position, about five miles from this, on the road to Delhi. It is intended to drive them from it to-morrow morning. The only news to-day is that the 15th N.I. have mutinied at Nuseerabad; whether any officers have been killed is yet unknown. The place we are encamped in is called Allipore. The number of guns with us are twenty-two, heavy and light, so we should give a good account when we meet the enemy. Our force numbers 600 cavalry, 2,400 infantry.

June 8th. Marched at about two a.m., the vanguard consisting of a squadron of Lancers, Major Scott's bat­talion, the 75th,and 2nd Fusiliers, all under Brigadier Showers. The second column consisted of the 1st Fusi­liers, H.M. 60th, and the Sirmoor battalion, with Captain Light's heavy guns. Just as day broke, when about the sixth mile from Delhi, we came upon a strong entrench­ment commanding the road. Its vicinity was first dis­covered by an 18-pounder whizzing over our heads. The troops immediately deployed to the right and left, our guns advanced and took up a position. The storm of grape, round-shot and shell, was incessant for some time. The 2nd Fusiliers lay down until the enemy's fire was taken off them. Scott's battery advanced, pouring in shot, and Light's heavy pieces gave them 18-pound shot. Major Tombs' troop had been sent round some distance to come upon their flank The banks of the canal had teen broken down by the rebels, so the country was flooded, and his advance delayed. When the firing commenced he hurried on with two guns, the other two having stuck in a ditch. On his arrival he opened with grape upon their flank. In the meantime, the 75thhad been exposed to a severe fire.  Some staff officers rode up, exclaiming, " Form square; the cavalry are down upon you." They didso, no enemy appeared, but they lost severely by it. Colonel Curzon now led them on, and with a loud cheer they charged the battery, having about three hundred yards of open rice fields to cross before reaching it, for the shot dealt death on all sides. The enemy did not wait for the bayonet, but leaving all their guns, rushed in a tumul­tuous body towards Delhi. Tombs' guns did not increase their courage. To the right of the battery, was a large serai— Badli-ki-Serai—with high walls rather in ruins, but still a Strong post for determined men. In this several Sepoys were found armed. All were killed. One was a fakir, who was first wounded and then hung by the 75th. The enemy had tents and everything complete. Our loss was severe, con­sidering the duration of the fight—about an hour. Very few of the enemy's killed or wounded were found, as they always carry them off.  Our loss was Colonel C. Chester and Captain  Russell, late 38th N.I.,  who  were  both  killed by one round-shot.    The former was Adjutant-General of the army. His loss will be deeply felt. The only other officer killed was Captain Harrison, 75th,shot through the head while charging the battery.  Captain Light was wounded lightly in the head by a grape shot. The killed of the 5th in the rice fields were about twenty-four. The Horse Artillery and Lancers followed in pursuit; but both sides of the roads being lined by gardens, these had to be cleared before we advanced.   We dressed the wounded in the fields, and brought them on in doolies.  We found it the greatest trouble to get the bearers to advance, and with assistants who are afraid, it is no easy matter. The enemy retreated fast, but kept firing grape from an 18-pounder whenever we came in sight. Their cavalry also threatened to charge several times, but grape soon made them change their intention and gallop off.  All houses were fired as we advanced, so our course was a melancholy sight.  Bodies lying with frightful wounds, shot and shell strewing the ground, while horses, cattle, etc., killed, lay here and there; broken guns, carts, ammunition wagons, left by the enemy, and burning houses on each side, gave one a low opinion of the "circumstance of glorious war." Our advance was slow, the gardens being full of rebel Sepoys. One column was de­tached to the left, and advanced to cantonments up the Mall. Captain Honey's troop was with them.  The enemy had a battery at the flagstaff tower with four guns.  A few shrapnel falling among them sent them off, leaving their guns. They spiked one, but they did not wait to do more. The last attempt at a stand made by the enemy was in a village, Subzee Mundi, about one mile from Delhi. They were soon driven out, leaving their 18-pounder in our hands. The houses were set on fire, and all the goods destroyed. Everything was as if the inhabitants had only retired on our approach. We turned off the Delhi road to the left, and proceeded along a road which runs behind the rocky ridge which overhangs Delhi. Behind this we were perfectly safe, the shot whistling harmlessly over our heads. Only one part of this road was exposed to a gun, at the Lahore gate, and whenever any body of men were seen a shot was sure to reach them.   Until the heavy guns crossed this place, we remained with a portion of the Carabiniers in a hollow. The range of this ridge at this point the rascals had to a nicety, and every shot struck somewhere near.  Captain Light got one 18-pounder into position to reply, but he had no sooner done so than it was dismounted by the firing from the city.  At this place we lost two men cut in two; over it we advanced as quickly as possible. I, being on foot, kept to a nullah on the left.  At the summit of this road is what is called Hindoo Rao's house, two stories high, strongly built of stone. In here the Ghoorkhas had got quarters, looting everything.  The enemy fired several shots into it, but without doing any damage. Near thishouse is an old mosque, which is commanded by a gun. The Carabiniers, while passing it, lost two men by one shot. The enemy's practice is wonderfully good, but it is accounted for by the continual practice. These were the guns we heard so often at Ghazi-u-din-nagar and other places. Near the mosque one of Major Scott's tumbrils was set on fire by a shot from the city. No one was killed, but poor Davidson had his clothes set on fire, and his face, hands and legs severely burned. It is only superficial, and although it will lay himup for long, he will recover without being marked. One or two native drivers were also slightlyburnt.  After waiting some time at Hindoo Rao's, went down to our encampment, which is on the parade ground close to the native lines, and about two miles from Delhi. The cantonments are all in ruins, having all been fired. Our camp is not beyond the reach of shot, but there is no gun bearing directly on it. That our movements were not directed in the best way, and that we wanted due activity is agreed to by all. Our greatest want is good cavalry, the heavy being of little use against such a foe. The number of guns captured was thirteen; one 24-pounder, two 18-pounders, one 8-inch howitzer, six 6-pounders, and three 9-pounders. Our heavy guns not having arrived with the siege train, we were doomed to remain in inactivity. The enemy disturbed us now and then by a round shot, whenever any body of men were seen on the ridge. These, however, did little harm to anyone. About four p.m., being curious to know what we were doing, and wishing to entice the Ghoorkhas to join, the enemy came out of the city in considerable numbers and advanced against the heights. The Ghoorkhas were the only troops up there, but they, with Major Scott's guns, were sufficient to keep them back until reinforcements arrived. They then returned to the city, having obtained what they desired, but probably not encouraged at seeing us encamping. During the evening they kept firing in all directions, and throwing out feelers to annoy us. They did not succeed in pitching any into our camp. The dressing of the wounded kept us employed all the afternoon. It is extraordinary that the Artillery lost no one all day, although exposed to all the firing. The savages of villagers, after the troops passed, came out and butchered all the wounded. Several of the Lancers were brought in hacked in pieces. After this, my first day of actual firing, I must confess it is a verydisagreeable sensation being under fire. The uncertainty of your fate and your total inactivity—having none of the excitement of the officer to make you regardless of danger— gives you time to think.  The medical man, although under fire, has to be cool and retain all his presence of mind, with­out which he can he of little use in performing his duties. With shot and shell falling around you it is no easy matter. After seeing the horrid wounds and gashes inflicted upon men full of health and spirit, now groaning in agony, I am of opinion that the pomp and circumstance of glorious war is only an idea emanating from a poet's brain, and that there is no Christian man who can look on it but with abhorrence. The present fighting is a necessity; we are not fighting alone to revenge our murdered brethren, but also for our own lives. From the enemy coming out this evening, the mutineers can­not be greatly depressed by theirdefeat, but show consider­able pluck in coming out again. That the capture of Delhi will not be so easy, as supposed, is now the belief of all, and that our force is small enough for the work it has before it. The enemy stopped theirfiring during the night, but some­thing kept them engaged on the other side of the city, shots being heard in that direction.

June 9th.    Cholera has, I am sorry to say, appeared in camp. One man of ours died last evening. Two of the medical men of H.M. 75th have been seized with it—Surgeon Coglan and Assistant-Surgeon Whytock. The corps of Guides came in this morning under Captain Daly. Their arrival is very welcome at present. They consist of cavalry and infantry. Davidson is doing well; eyesight not injured. Our heavy guns are being placed in position, and will be ready to open fire about mid-day. The first shot from ours was about one p.m., so the siege of Delhi may be said to have commenced. About three p.m. the enemy began to come out to the number of about two thousand men. They advanced up the woody height to the right of Hindoo Rao's house. They called out to the Ghoorkhas to come over to them; the only reply was a volley. The Guides and Rifles, in spite of the rocky ground, drove them back into the city. The former followed them up to the Lahore gate. Whenever any group of rebels was seen our guns sent shot and shell among them. They brought out a nine-pounder gun, but after firing a few rounds, it was silenced by Major Scott's guns. Our loss was not severe, but several officers were wounded. Lieutenant Battye, second in command of Guides, was wounded mortally; Lieutenant Hayes, their adjutant, slightly wounded; one private was killed. None of the Rifles fell. One of the Sappers was killed in the battery. Our mortars are being erected; one is already in position. Our firing in the early part of the day was bad, but improved, and some good shots were taken by an 18-pounder. One shot entering in at the embrasure of a gun, a shell was dropped at the side of same. About eight p.m. a fire was seen near one of the gates, it was caused by a carcase; after burning for some time it flickered and went out.

June l0th. All quiet during the night. A spy was caught last evening near our right battery. Our guns are too far distant from the city to do much execution—1,500 yards. What is to be done no one seems to know. The warrant officers are showing cowardice; the Brigadier threatens to hang one or two. The troops at Jullundur have revolted, and gone off towards Peshawur. Surgeon Coglan, of the 75th, died last night; the Assistant-Surgeon still alive, and getting better. Lieu­tenant Battye died this afternoon, greatly regretted by his men. I went up in the morning to Hindoo Rao's house. The road up is rather dangerous, the round shot striking among the rocks. A piece of shell fell about ten yards off where I was. Our guns still firing with little effect. In the evening the mutineers again came up the woody heights, accompanied with two guns and some cavalry. The Ghoorkhas and guides kept them in check, but did not pursue, as the guns and cavalry were drawn up, expecting them to fall intothe trap. We lost two artillerymen yesterday; they were in the act of drinking when a round shot came and killed them. The Ghoorkhas lost three men; one gunner and four or five guides were wounded. It appears that the rebels have always some men posted in the hollow immediately below the pass where we lost the men on the 8th. The ground at this place is so rough, thickly wooded, with large boulders, that, if they had a little courage, they could do us a great deal of harm. The remains of the murdered officers of the 54th N.I., five in number, were found last night near the flagstaff tower. The bodies had been sent up from the Cashmere gate in a cart. Colonel Ripley had gone with his regiment to stop the mutineers from Meerut. He, unfor­tunately, did not make his men load their muskets. When the rebels fired, the regiment, of course, ran off, leaving their officers to their fate. Good news from Calcutta—the arrival of six Queen's regiments; so in a little time we shall have the upper-hand again.  The 75th, on the 8th, lost 25 killed and 54 wounded; the 9th Lancers, 15 killed and 10 wounded—total casualties, 51 killed, 132 wounded

June 11th. This morning, soon after daylight, shells and round shot came dropping into the Carabiniers' lines at the extreme right of our encampment.  Their tents were all removed before any damage was done. A false alarm about 11.30 p.m. last night.    Cholera, I am sorry to say, is on the increase. Four of the artillery admitted, and one death to-day. They never come into hospital until collapsed, when medicine is useless.   Very quiet all day. A European woman came into camp from Delhi. The inhabitants have all left this side of the city, and have gone, to escape the shot, to the other side.    The woman tells us that they have only provisions for five days, but the country being open on the other side, they will have no difficulty in procuring supplies. Our guns kept silent almost all day, firing being found use­less, and wasting our ammunition;

June 12th. We fire a great deal towards morning. About 5.30 a.m., continuous firing of musketry heard towards our right flank. It arose from the Guides, who are posted near the Subzee Mundi, set on fire by us on the 8th. It is on the high road to Delhi, and about one and a half miles from the Lahore gate. The firing increasing, the troops all turned out, and our batteries at Hindoo Rao's house began to throw shells into it. The enemy had come out in a very strong body and tried to turn our flank. The village was soon again on fire, and the Rifles and guides, supported by the 1st fusiliers, drove them out of the gardens and houses in which they were. One party of thirty were caught in one place bythe Rifles, and everyone killed. There were some irregular cavalry out, but a round shot from one of our guns sent them to the right about. The Guides' cavalry pursued them. After an hour's continuous roar of musketry there was a lull, but some of the 1st Europeans beating the gardens, came upon small parties who had been separated from the main body, and prevented from reaching Delhi by our troops inter­cepting them. Not a man escaped. The enemy's loss must have been severe. It is said that the inhabitants of the city are getting discontented at their houses being shelled, and insist on the mutineers going out and driving us away. This attack was intended for yesterday, but the rebels are not fond of fighting, having plenty of loot. Two of our guns had a narrow escape of being spiked at the flagstaff tower. The piquet of the 75th was being relieved, when the rebels were seen coming up a nullah to the left.  Instead of our men lying down on the top of the ridge, they lay some distance on this side.     The rebels consequently reached the top where the guns were. They advanced about fifteen paces further, when the 75th started up, fired a volley, and drove them down the hill with the bayonet. Captain Knox, commanding, was killed. One Sepoy was shot about two hundred yards from our powder magazine. The number of the enemy killed, according to the general dis­patch, is three hundred. One party of the Rifles came upon forty-nine of them in a garden, where all were bayonetted without a casualty on our side. Our killed were four of the 75th, and eleven wounded; four of the Guides fell; none of the 60th. The conduct of the Guides was admirable; they bore the whole brunt of the fighting. Ever since their arrival they have always been on duty, although after a march of 580 miles in 22 days. Cholera still the same; three fresh admissions to-day; but it is solely confined to the battery, none of the troop being affected. This afternoon a shell fell to the right of our tent, about fifty yards; it buried itself and went out, which was lucky, as the place was surrounded by cattle, hackeries, etc. It was wrapped round with rags, and although and 8-inch one it had the fuse of a five. Towards evening the firing increased. They have now got a mortar erected, but their firing with it is bad. After sunset I sat watching the shells in their course. The parabola described is beautiful, but the beauty is forgotten by the explosion which immediately follows. Tonight at mess it began to be whispered that an assault would take place early to-morrow morning. Of course it was not generally known, in case it might reach the rebels. Our guns kept firing continuously all night.

June 13th. On awakening this morning found everything quiet. The regiment had all paraded at one a.m., and some men marched off, but from some misunderstanding they did not know where to go, and the piquets not having orders to join, everything went amiss, and thisgolden opportunity was missed; when it will take place now is unknown. Several spies have been caught at Hindoo Rao's house, and immediately hanged. One man of the 38th N.I. returned to Delhi, but not having brought some desirable news, was sent back again, but being seized, was hanged. It ap­pears that the fault this morning was owing to Brigadier Graveshaving neglected to give some orders. The Rifles and Guides were within four hundred yards of the gates, and no alarm was given. Our hope of capturing at present is over. Very quiet all day. Towards evening the alarm sounded and the troops turned out, but the enemy had been driven back by the piquets. Lieutenant Kennedy was dangerously wounded. Several of the Guides and Ghoorkhas were killed yesterday. A body of about one thousand men were seen crossing the bridge of boats, probably flying from the city. They were fired upon by their own comrades.

June 14th. How different from the quiet and sober Sabbath of Scotland ? How littlewe value it when there ? How many of us are fated never to see it again, is only known to a merciful Providence. The distant booming of guns every now and then recalls the dangerous work we are engaged in. Went to the flagstaff tower to see what was going on. Delhi and the surrounding country were under a haze, and the stillness of early morning was only broken by the roar of a cannon. What a dreadful thing that man alone should mar the beauties of such a scene! News was brought in that the enemy were coming out in great force to attack us. To-day was dreadfully warm. One of the Sikh regiments is expected in to-day. The dak is again stopped at Allygurh. Four Sepoys were shot this morning at this side of the ridge at Hindoo Rao's house. They had got over during the night, and remained in concealment expecting to fall in with some officer. Two of the Rifles discovered them, and two were shot with one bullet, the other two were also killed. News has been received thatthe mutineers, having no doctors, bury the wounded with the dead. This will have a great effect on their fighting. Everything was arranged for an assault this evening, but it was reported that four or five hundred Pandys were collected in some gardens on our right flank, so it was delayed. Two heavy guns have been mounted on the mound to the right of our camp.

June 15th.  The enemy probably heard of our intended attack, as their firing became quite incessant about one a.m. Cholera has abated, and I hope no more cases may occur. About six a.m. this morning the alarm was sounded, firing of musketry began at  the mosque where our left mortar battery is.   It continued very sharply for about an hour. It was chiefly confined to the piquets. As soon as it had ceased in this quarter it commenced on the ridge below Hindoo Rao's house. Here a large body of the enemy had come, with a green flag among them. They kept at a respectful distance, but still firing. Our heavy guns on the mound fired two shots—one with shrapnel—when they retired. Another alarm sounded about ten a.m. Our men were all ready, but after a little firing of musketry near our batteries, the enemy retired. Colonel Chamberlain has been made adjutant-general, Colonel Nicholson, Brigadier commanding the Punjaub moveable column. Every symptom of the approaching rains—the horizon in the mornings and evenings being misty, with great heat during the day—we shall be in a bad way if the rain overtakes us before taking Delhi.

June 16th.  Reinforcements are on theirway down from the Punjaub—a wing of H.M. 8th and 61st, etc.  The 4thSikh Infantry left Umballa on the 8th ult. Dr. S. Batson has been appointed field surgeon.  Time is beginning to feel slow in its movements. Books are scarce and eagerly sought after. The firing last night stopped from nine p.m. until three a.m., when the enemy sent several shot and shell in quick succession, after which all again became silent. We are to wait untilthe European troops arrive, then throw up some parallels, form a breach, and take the city in this way. A battery is being thrown up in Sir T. Metcalf's compound, but unless well guarded the guns will be in great danger. The 18th N.I. have mutinied at Bareilly, and all the officers, except three, are said to have been murdered. It is said they came into Delhi to-day; if so, they will probably try their hands with us. The same regiment never comes out twice. One hundred recruits (Artillery) and forty of the Rifles are ordered from Meerut. Very quiet all day. The enemy try to throw mortar shells into our camp, but they always burst high in air.

June 17th. Hardly a gun was fired last night. The guns that bear on us are placed on the Lahore and Cash­mere gates. There is an 18-pounder on the first which enfilades Hindoo Rao's house, causing us much damage. Their firing is best from a battery in front of the English church, near the Cashmere gate. A day or two ago, a sergeant of the 2nd Europeans found in the shot belt of a mutineer (a subadar of the 74th), a Government paper to the amount of 4,200 rupees. This is a proof that their rebellion arises from some cause affecting, or supposed to affect, their best interests. That a man, especially a Hindoo, should give up this amount, probably all his savings, and turn rebel with such uncertainties, can only be accounted for from some fanaticism. A round-shot to-day killed an officer, two Carabiniers, and two of the Ghoorkhas. The former, Ensign Wheatly, 54th N.I., was doing duty with the Ghoorkhas. He was asleep at the time. The shot struck the wall and broke into fragments. This evening eight hundred men were sent out with some light field pieces to destroy the battery the enemy were erecting on our right at the Ead serai. It met with perfect success, their entrenchments were destroyed, and one gun, a 9-pounder, was captured. Our men got into the centre of the enemy who were concealed in thick cover, and were exposed for some time to heavy fire. Major Tombs had two horses wounded under him, and got a graze from a bullet in arm. The greater part of the enemy were in a large serai (the Ead), from which they fled on the Rifles opening fire. They took shelter in another building too near the walls for us to follow. Our loss was trifling. A cap­tain of the Fusiliers was severely wounded. About one hundred of the enemy are said to have fallen. The capture of this gun will prove rather disheartening to their courage, even now at a low ebb. They run whenever they catch sight of us, unless when in such broken ground that one man is as good as another. Major Tombs has had five horses killed and wounded under him since this commenced.

June 18th. Waterloo Day. This, the most glorious day in English history, finds us (the descendents of those heroes who bore the fate of Europe in their hands), fighting for the brightest gem in England's Crown—India. One hundredyears have elapsed since Clive first commenced at Plassey, the glorious history of our Indian victories. Is it fated that we are to lose this bright empire? At present there are no warnings, and with the taking of Delhi the tranquility of India will be restored. This day I enter upon my twenty-fourth year—what a change from this day last year—little did I imagine then, in Scotland, to be campaigning at the next anniversary. Where shall I be next year on this day ? This is only known to the Almighty. Rumour says, to-day at Cawnpore the rebels have risen, and the Europeans are fighting with them. At Bareilly, it is said, the magistrate, Mr. Robertson, and the civil surgeon, Dr. Hay, were hanged. At Shahjehanpore, the 28th N.I., rumour says, attacked the residents when in church, and murdered all. After such atrocities, what can be expected when Delhi is stormed but indiscriminate slaughter.

June 19th. The rains are still keeping off, but the morn­ings are still very cloudy and hazy. A good deal of firing last night, but no damage done. All remained quiet until four p.m., when word came from our batteries that the enemy were issuing from the Lahore gate in somewhat regular order, and in a large body. They went a long circuit, and came in upon our rear, about one and a half miles. A spy who came in told us there were two regiments of infantry, five hundred cavalry, and six guns. The infantry were some of those who had lately joined them, and on demanding a share of loot, were told they wouldget none untilthey went out and fought with us Our troops immediately turned out, but, being sent to our right, theylost the opportunity of attackingthe enemy on their flank movement. After an hour wasted in doing nothing, Major Tombs was ordered to take his guns, with some of the Guides' cavalry, and proceed down the road to our rear.   Brigadier Grant was officer of the day. At a gallop they proceeded for more than a mile, when they suddenly came on their foes with all their guns. To retire was impossible without losing the guns, so a stand was made, relief being expected in a short time. The enemy kept firing grape and round shot, which flew harmlessly over the troops heads. We replied with the same, and with more effect. The Pandys, on seeing the guns unsupported, plucked up courage, and advanced after as near as forty yards, and picked off the gunners. Captain Daly tried to charge, but with only partial success.    He was severely wounded in the shoulder. The Lancers also charged, but the road being lined by walls, they could not get at them.  In about three quarters of an hour the Rifles arrived, but only advanced a few yards and began firing, instead of charging the guns. This is the evil of the Enfield rifle; the men prefer taking long shots when they are sheltered, to advanc­ing. The 1st Fusiliers soon after came up, they passed the Rifles, but did not advance to the guns. One of the enemy's ammunition waggons was blown up by our fire. Darkness coming on, and our men beginning to fire at each other, we were obliged to retire; our loss was severe, but the firing was sharper than any day as yet. We lost Major Yule, 9th Lancers (missing); Lieutenant Alexander, 3rd N.I., killed; and Lieutenant Humphreys, wounded mortally. Tombs' troop alone lost one killed and five wounded.  This was adreadfully mismanaged affair, no one seeming to know any­thing, and orders being given and executed by whoever chose. Colonel Becher, the quartermaster-general, ordered out the troops on his own responsibility.    He was wounded in the arm, and no one seems sorry at it. If infantry had been sent forward at once, we should have captured their guns and turned them out of the gardens where they were posted. Artillery and cavalry are almost useless in such a place;what their object in this daring movement was is un­certain. To seize our camels—in this they partly succeeded, making off with about one hundred (since recovered), or was it to attack our reinforcements, or take in with them some of their mutinous comrades on their way down?  As to cutting off our supplies, they must know we would not tamely allow this, but turn them out at whatever cost.

June 20th.  Everything remained quiet during the night. Twelve of our light guns with eight hundred infantry and most of the cavalry went out at daylight, but found the enemy had retreated from the gardens, leaving their dead. Major Yule's body was brought in dreadfully mangled. About two hundred of the enemies' dead were seen.    We found one 9-pounder and two empty ammunition waggons. Some panic must have seized them. They are said to have taken up a position at a greater distance to our rear. Our troops had only arrived in camp when the enemy were seen approaching. The alarm sounded, and off our guns went. Our troops assembled at the other side of the canal; the guns of two troops in the centre, the cavalry on each flank, while the infantry lay down in the rear to escape the shot the enemywere firing. As soon as our guns advanced and opened fire the enemy retired, and whenever they attempted a stand our shot soon drove them off. Some panic seized them, probably thinking we were cutting them off from Delhi. From whatever cause they were seen rushing into the Lahore gate in a tumultuous body and in a great fright, which was not allayed by our 24-pounder playing upon them. One of the 1st Bombay Lancers was caught this morning wounded, He, with twelve others, had fled from Nuseerabad. He pretends to be very penitent and demands mercy. The Bagh Pat bridge has been broken down by the Goopirs, so that the recruits and stores from Meerut must now come via Karnal. It is said that the demonstration to our rear was to meet the Jullundur mutineers, which they did. Guns almost silent all day. Flies, for which Delhi is famous, are becoming most troublesome. They enter the tents in legions, and are the most persevering and active tribe I ever saw. Nothing daunted by attempts at their life, they return buzzing and will not be driven off, so that passive resistance is all one can do, until one more bold than his comrades begins frisking over some part more sensitive than the rest when your anger rises, and after a fruitless attempt you are content to return to your usual apathy

June 21st. All our camels have been recaptured, so we have come off better than we deserve. Another Sunday, and still encamped as on last. The capture of Delhi being as far distant as on the 8th. Waiting for reinforcements which are expected about the 24th. Our small force not being sufficient to hold it if taken. The rebels are said to haveoccupied the same position at Bad-ki-Serai that cost us so many lives on the 8th. This requires confirmation. The recruits are not coming from Meerut, General Hewitt con­sidering the roads too disturbed. The Jheend Rajah has been sent out to repair the Bagh Fat bridge. Lieutenant Daly is getting on better than at first expected. A false alarm about 2.30 p.m. The enemies' cavalry was seen crossing the bridge of boats. Six or seven cannon shots heard at the other side of Delhi, probably they are fighting among themselves. A new battery has been erected on our rear and armed with two 18 pounders

June 22nd. Yesterday was the longest day—it is now light until about 7.30 p.m. All quiet. Daysare very warm; they are generally so before the rain. The dak from the N.W. comes in daily, none from the south for weeks. At Mussoorie there have been several alarms, bridges being broken down, etc., to prevent the approach of an imaginary enemy; the next day the servants are to murder them all; and on a third that the food is poisoned. We have it from good authority that in Delhi there is a scarcity of powder, and that they are manufacturing it at the rate of four maunds per day. The immense quantity in the powder magazine in cantonments was, as soon as the guard left, attacked by the Zemindars and Goopirs, and most of it removed to the neigh­bouring villages. Warned of a grand attack that was to be made on us at daylight to-morrow morning on our right flank and rear. Preparations are being made accordingly.

June 23rd.    The first of our reinforcements came in this morning.    The 1st troop, 1st brigade H.A. under MajorOlpherts, 120 men of the 75th, 250 of the 2nd Fusiliers, and a portion of the 4th Sikh Infantry. They brought in a large convoy of ammunition.    Near this they were followed by some Sowars, but a few rounds from the guns, killingseveral, set them to flight. A continuous fire of shot and shell from Delhi all night.    Our troops turned out at daylight. The enemy were as usual posted in the gardens and houses of the Subzee Mundi, on our right flank. The firing commenced about six a.m., and continued with little intermission all day. The object of their attack was the capture of our 24-pounder battery, and their shot killed and wounded fifteen men in this one alone. The fighting in the village was obstinate, every house being loop-holed and full of these rascals. From one to the other they were at last driven, but our men became so done up that they could not seize upon two guns which were about two hundred yards from them, and only required a rush to obtain. The day was cloudy, but oppressively warm. The rebels got into a large white house, two storied, where they kept our men long at bay. There was no entrance to be found into it. so they kept popping away at the windows. At last they were driven from this and from the entire village, re­treating towards the large serai (the Ead) which we attacked on the 17th. Our men being now quite useless, having been out from five a.m. until five p.m., we did not advance, but remained in the village until sunset, when our men were brought in. Our loss must have been great with such diffi­culties to contend against. It is a pity that when these houses are in our possession they are not destroyed, as they are always reoccupied.  Want of powder is the excuse. This is the centenary of the battle of Plassey. Oh! For another Clive at this crisis. The Pandys were told if we were not all killed to-day, we would conquer. The Rifles lost 4 killed and about 20 wounded; the 1st Fusiliers, 10 killed and 24 wounded; the 2nd Fusiliers, 4 killed, 8 wounded; the Guides, 10 killed and 9 wounded—total killed and wounded, about 150. The only officer killed was Lieutenant Jackson, 2nd Europeans. Captain Jones, H.M. 60th, wounded. News has come in that the whole Gwalior contingent have mutinied, and are on their way to attack Agra. No officers mentioned as killed with the troops there, and those on their way up; there should be little fear. These rascals have, however, a third-class siege train and three companies of artillery. The Bagh Pat bridge is repaired, and the Jheend force protecting it.

June 24th. Very quiet last night, except a fire of musketry that was kept up for three or four hours from the walls of Delhi. Their sentries proclaim " all's well " by firing their muskets. Last night they must have expected an assault. A reinforcement of forty-five artillerymen came in this morning. Went to the flagstaff tower and watched the firing. That of the enemy is excellent. Every shot from their battery near the Cashmere gate, striking the sand-bags of our left. They have erected a new battery at the end of the "bridge of boats," on a point of land jutting into the river called the Selim Ghar.

June 25th. Still continuing the same monotonous exist­ence. Now and then the booming of a gun alone breaks the stillness and reminds us of the siege. The enemy are said to be coming out to-morrow morning. The Morey gate isbeginning to look delapidated; the 24-pounders in our battery keeping its fire down.

June 26th.  All the troops were out at daylight, but although small bodies of men came out, they did not attack us.  News from Umballa that 450 men of H.M. 61st, and Coke's Irregulars, in all about 1,500 men, had left there on the evening of the 24th.    They ought to reach this about the 30th. H.M. 8th is in front, and is daily expected. Sir John Lawrence is assembling an army of 40,000 Sikhs in the Punjaub. The report of so many having fallen at Bareilly was untrue, most of the officers having reached Nynee Tal.  Until a gun was fired the Sepoys had re­mained true in appearance, and had even told their officers to recall their wives from the hills as they would be quite safe. This had luckily not been done. Such is the Sepoy who has been petted until, like a spoilt child, he resents. He has proved himself regardless of every oath and tie, forgetful of all the kindness bestowed upon him; of the salt he has for years been eating, and for the sake of a few rupees has risked his life and that of his family. What worse enormities could have been performed by mortals?  And yet this is the quiet inoffensive Hindoo who it has been long the custom to pity and regard as an oppressed race. This ill-used race will soon find, when under no laws but that of the strongest, that their rising has been rash and ill-timed. When this crisis is over, he must be ruled as a servant, and kept in his place, not treated and supported as a pampered dependant.

June 27th.    The attack expected yesterday, took place this morning. Although not issuing in large bodies, they were still numerous. By five a.m. we were ready for them. They again attempted to take our right heavy battery, it being a great annoyance to them. They were as usual driven back. At our piquet, in front of Metcalf's com­pound, there was a great deal of firing, but with little loss on our side. The enemy lost about fifty here. The Pandys were driven back, but took shelter in the Ead Serai towards the Lahore gate, where they fought obstinately. They brought but three or four guns, which annoyed those in our batteries, but not causing loss. The firing continued until about two p.m. Major Scott's company lost one man killed and two wounded (one mortally); H.M. 60th, one killed and four wounded. The 2nd Fusiliers lost most, having borne the brunt of the fight. The rains commenced to-day about eleven a.m., and it kept pouring almost without inter­mission until five p.m. Our tent being on a high piece of ground remained dry, but many others were in a miserable plight. When we went out in the evening, the sight was singular. Between us and the hospital tents was a large pool of water, with a stream running into it. The tents looked like floating islands, being surrounded on all sides by water. We had to wade to reach them.  Luckily the floors had all been raised in the morning, and the men being on charpoys, they were all dry. After getting men to work, the water was drained off to a tank in the rear. What will it be when the rain continues for days instead of hours.

June 28th.    It rained a good deal during the night, but the camp looked dry in the morning. It began to clear up soon after daylight, but every appearance of a showery day. The wind was S.W. yesterday; to-day it has veered towards the west. H.M. 8th came in this morning, about six hundred men. There were also two guns belonging to the 5th troop 1st brigade. The gunners are natives. It is commanded by Lieutenant Renny. Lots of ammunition also came in. It is rumoured that the troops seen issuing from Delhi on the 26th, have occupied the bridge at Bagh Pat, and intend cutting off our communication with Meerut. Another Sunday and still before Delhi. By the Lahore Chronicle we find that nine European regiments have arrived in Calcutta. From Delhi the last news is that the King has issued a proclamation, ordering all the women to be massacred when­ever our troops get within the walls.

June 29th.    It rained for a short time last night. Met Hunter of the 2nd Europeans this morning. Except in being stouter and more set, he is not changed since leaving Edinburgh. Lieutenant Hodson, 1st Europeans, rode out to Bagh Pat. He found the bridge broken but no enemy. He brought away what boats remained. The Lieutenant-Governor, Mr. Colvin, the papers say, has been superseded by Sir H. Wheeler, on account of his proclamation offering pardon to all Sepoys who came in except those who had committed any atrocities. In Oude, when the 48th and 71st N.I. mutinied, Brigadier Handscomb and three officers were killed; three wounded. Colonel Longfield, H.M. 8th, has succeeded Brigadier Graves, the latter being sent to the hills as useless.  Yesterday and during the night scarcely a gun was fired.

June 30th.   Fortune is indeed on our side.   The greatest piece of luck that could have happened occurred last night. The bridge of boats at Delhi was partially carried away by the sudden rise of the Jumna, and several boats have been destroyed. Its repair will take some time. This was what everyone was anxious to see done, but no one could devise a plan. Guns have been erected to command it, and booms placed so as to prevent any burning vessel being sent down. "There is a divinity who shapes our ends, rough hew them how we will."    Everything has gone well with us since the commencement of this campaign, yet we have shown no great ability, no daring. This morning the enemy came out with some guns; the firing continued some four or  five hours; the Pandys were driven back as usual, but we lost severely—about  fifty  killed  and  wounded. Among the latter are two officers of the Sikh corps, Lieutenant Yorke (since dead), and Lieutenant Parke, who will probably recover. Our losses before Delhi have been greater than if we had assaulted it at first. The enemy began to take up a position in front of the Ead Serai, on the right. Towards evening about eight hundred men, under Brigadier Showers, were sent out to capture the guns. They, however, had been removed about two p.m. Our troops, after marching uphill, had just to march down again.     Several houses were burnt, but no enemy was seen.

<< First  < Previous  Next >  Last >>
© Families in British India Society. Unless stated otherwise, all rights including those in copyright in the content of this website are owned by or controlled for these purposes by the Families in British India Society.The content of this site may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broadcast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining written permission from the Families in British India Society or that of the copyright owner.
If you found this useful then why not join FIBIS to get all the benefits from membership and help this work to continue. You can now join on-line in the FIBIS Shop...
Frontis V4.20.04.06 Rev: 217. Web site engine code is Copyright © 2005-2020 Frontis. All Rights Reserved.
Decrease text size text size  Increase text size
Powered by Frontis, The Archive Publishing System