desired work. In the meantime a vigorous fire of musketry and rockets from the turrets galled the English troops; it was borne, however, with the greatest steadiness. The shattered fragments of the gate were torn away after each discharge; and an opening, though a small one, being at length made, Lieutenant Ayre, of the 86th regiment, being of very diminutive size and stature, was raised on the shoulders of some Grenadiers, and passed through. General Meadows, who preserved an inspiring gaiety in the midst of battle, called out, "Well done! now, whiskers, try if you can follow and support the little gentleman!"
On this animating call, the troops with a hearty cheer dashed into the town, of which they were speedily masters; though its great extent rendered the occupation difficult. Tippoo likewise threw in a strong corps, which renewed the contest and opened a heavy fire with small arms; but when the English betook themselves to the bayonet, they drove the enemy with irresistible fury through the streets and lanes, and soon compelled them to seek refuge in the fort, with a loss of two thousand in killed and wounded. The loss of the English amounted to one hundred and thirty-one, and among the killed was Colonel Moorhouse, who fell at the gate. He had risen from the ranks, "but Nature," says Colonel Wilks, "had made him a gentleman – uneducated, he had made himself a man of science; a career of uninterrupted distinction had commanded general respect, and his amiable character universal attachment."
The capture of the pettah was followed by preparations for obtaining possession of the fort. Batteries were erected, a breach made; and though it was not in a condition for being stormed, yet, on considering the active movements made by the Sultan, it was determined to make the attempt on the night of the 20th of March. It was bright moonlight; eleven was the hour named, and a whisper along the ranks of the storming-party was the signal appointed for advancing in profound silence. The
