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354 Light Horse joined him that evening, and the Jálandhar Cavalry the following morning. Franks pushed on rapidly after the battle. On the 1st of March Aikman, who commanded the Jálandhar Cavalry, heard of the presence three miles off the road of a rebel chief who had long been 'wanted.' Aikman dashed after him, caught him, killed more than a hundred of his men, and drove the remainder into the Gúmtí, capturing two guns. It was the resolute courage of Aikman that did it all, and for his daring and persistence he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

On the 4th Franks had reached Améthí, within eight miles of Lakhnao. Hence he proceeded to attack the fort of Daurárá, two miles off the road. But, in striking contrast to his usual tactics, he made the attack in a slovenly manner, and was repulsed. It was unfortunate for him, for it was believed he was to have held the command in the storming of Lakhnao, which Sir Colin, after the repulse, conferred upon Outram.

The assaulting army, numbering 20,000 men and 180 guns, is now collected round the doomed city. In the next chapter I shall have to relate how Sir Colin Campbell employed it.