As it marched, it passed within three miles of
Tippoo's army, which was proceeding in a westerly direction. Tippoo
could here have brought on a general engagement, had he wished it; but
the capture of Bangalore had for the time cowed his spirit, and he
continued his march, at a rate that soon placed him beyond the reach
of the British.
At Deonhully a junction was effected with the Nizam's horse, ten
thousand in number. These proved, however, of no real utility, being a
mere undisciplined herd, who displayed no energy whatever, except in
plundering the villagers. The united force now moved southeast, to
guard a great convoy which was advancing up the pass of Amboor; and,
when this had been met, returned to Bangalore.
During the operations of the siege, the Rajah's troop had remained
inactive, and Dick's duties as interpreter had been nominal. At
Bangalore, no English prisoners had been found, and he was heartily
glad when he heard that it was the intention of Lord Cornwallis to
march directly upon Seringapatam.
It was, indeed, a necessity for the English general to bring the
campaign to a speedy termination. The war was entailing a tremendous
strain upon the resources of the Company.
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