Page:Memoirs of the Lady Hester Stanhope.djvu/183

 shot that was fired at the English battery blew up an artillery waggon (caisson) full of powder. The explosion dismounted some of the cannon, killed several men, and created so much confusion, that the English, in consequence of it, eventually lost the battle, and were forced to retreat. Mr. L. had two or three of his men killed. "There! you may take your cannon back," said he, as soon as the explosion took place; "I have nothing farther to do and he and his brother Frenchman walked away to watch the result of the mischief they had done.

When the day was over, an officer of the rajah's conveyed to Mr. Loustaunau his master's request that he would attend on him at his tent. Mr. L. presented himself, and Scindeah received him with marks of great consideration. Addressing himself to Mr. L., "You have done me, sir," said he, "a most essential service to-day; and, as a small recompense for your gallantry and the military talent you have shown, I beg your acceptance of a few presents, together with the assurance that, if you like to enter my service, you shall have the command of a company immediately." Mr. L. thanked him in proper language, and, declining the presents offered, said, "Your highness will excuse me if I refuse your gifts: I will, however, with pleasure accept the sword which I see among them, but nothing else. The offer of a com-