Page:Clyde and Strathnairn.djvu/85

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THE NORTHERN OPERATIONS
75

and others. In a few moments more, under a sharp fire, Havelock and Outram joined Sir Colin Campbell and were able to congratulate him upon the successful accomplishment of the second relief of Lucknow.

Great was the feeling of satisfaction among the garrison, only to be followed by something like consternation when it was announced that within twenty-four hours, and against the advice of Havelock and Outram, the Residency position was to be altogether abandoned. The Commander-in-Chief had decided on this step because in his opinion the position was a false one, and could not be reached afterwards by a relieving army without incurring severe loss. There was much to be said for and against this view. On the one hand it was argued that the enemy, if attacked, would be quite ready to abandon the key of their position, the Kaisar Bágh; and that when they had done so, the capture of the rest of the city would not be difficult, while our prestige would undoubtedly be injured by withdrawal. On the other hand it was said that the force then at Lucknow could hardly have maintained its position without neglecting military operations of greater importance elsewhere, besides which, the mutineers of the city could be held in check by a force stationed at the Alambágh. General Outram was of opinion that an attack should be made on the Kaisar Bágh, after which two Brigades, he thought, of 600 men would suffice to hold the city. Sir Colin Campbell was convinced that four Brigades would be necessary for this duty. He