Page:Dupleix and the Struggle for India by the European Nations.djvu/68

Rh Now, at last, Dupleix had the opportunity which a bold stroke might have made decisive. A well-directed attack on Fort St. David, supported by the ships, could not have failed. The garrison had no longer the army of the Nuwáb to depend upon. But the blow, to be successful, must be struck at once. The English squadron was in the Húglí, waiting only for reinforcements, now overdue, to sail down to the succour of their countrymen. In war the opportune moment can never be allowed to pass with impunity. But, on this occasion, Dupleix did unaccountably allow it to slip. Without any protest on his part, indeed, it would seem with his full concurrence, Dordelin, after the signature of the treaty with the Nuwáb, sailed for the western coast (February 19). Possibly he dreaded lest the northerly winds then prevailing might bring down upon him the English squadron whilst he was engaged before Fort St David.

When the squadron had left, Dupleix, whose mind always recognised what ought to be done, organised a new expedition against Fort St. David. With the consent of the superior officers he confided the command to the capable Paradis. That officer set out March 13, crossed the Panár, took possession of the walled garden from which de Bury had been so precipitately expelled, and made his preparations for attack the following morning. But Fortune, who had granted Dupleix so many opportunities, who had given him the whole period from December 10 to