Page:Viscount Hardinge and the Advance of the British Dominions into the Punjab.djvu/116

112 ardour of the Sikh troops. They rallied, however, in a way that bore evidence of their undaunted pluck. The remnant soon helped to swell the numbers of the main body, now massed at Sobráon. Cureton's cavalry brigade in the two days' action had covered the movements of Smith's Division in a manner which proved how that arm can be effectually utilised when well handled. It was maintained by some that their skilful manœuvring had in reality saved Smith's force from defeat. Suffice it to say, that this action contributed in no small degree to the total overthrow of the Khálsa army on the 10th February at the memorable battle of Sobráon.

As soon as the news of the victory of Alíwál reached head-quarters a gala parade of the whole force was ordered. The troops had recovered from the fatigues and privations of their preliminary operations, and now looked fit to go anywhere. There were the 31st, the 29th, the 50th, the 9th, the 80th, with the 9th Lancers and the 3rd Light Dragoons, who had infused such terror into the Sikh ranks on the night of the 21st December, and other regiments with many glorious names on their colours. As the two Chiefs rode down the line to announce the recent victory, they were greeted by cheers such as Englishmen alone can give. It was well known that a week would probably bring with it another sanguinary contest; and the thought must have crossed most minds that another such action as that of the 21st December would plunge many a distant home in mourning.