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Rh January, 1781, in relieving Chingleput, in which only fifteen days' provisions remained. It being supposed that the enemy were quitting the fort of Caraugooly, and carrying off the store of provisions, Captain Davis was despatched with a thousand men, at midnight on the 20th of January, for the purpose of intercepting them. So far from the place being deserted, however, Captain Davis found the garrison perfectly ready to receive him. He determined, notwithstanding, to execute his orders; and the place being unprovided with a drawbridge, a twelve-pounder was rapidly run up to the first gate, which at the second discharge was blown open, so as to allow passage for a single man. Passing this, a second and a third gate presented themselves; and these were ultimately forced, though with greater difficulty, the assailants being during the whole period of operation exposed to the enemy's fire from above. The third gate being carried, the garrison escaped by ladders on the opposite side, and the English were in undisputed possession of Carangooly. The loss of the victors was severe; but the effect of so brilliant a stroke at the opening of the campaign was highly beneficial, more especially after the shadow which had so recently passed over the power of the British arms. One main object of the attack was also secured, in the capture of a quantity of grain.

In this manner the important fortresses of Wandewash and Permacoil were relieved, and a stop put to the career of the enemy. The British commander, however, in following the rapid movements of this indefatigable adversary, found his troops so exhausted, and reduced to such destitution, as left no prospect of relief except in a general action, and this he was at length fortunate enough to accomplish.

Encouraged by the appearance of a French fleet on the coast, and by a repulse sustained by our countrymen in attacking the pagoda of Chillumbrum, Hyder entrenched