men of the 37 N. I. were already dispersing in wild disorder.
But the danger was not yet over. So clumsy had been the programme that the sipáhís had been allowed to escape with arms in their hands, in close vicinity to a populous city, the inhabitants of which were renowned for their turbulent character. In this crisis Frederick Gubbins, Súrat Singh, Devnáráin Singh, and other loyal men were able to render splendid service. The Sikhs on guard over the assembled non-combative Europeans were pacified by Súrat Singh, himself a Sikh. Gubbins, entering the city, exerted the supreme influence which his character as a resolute but just man had gained for him. The citizens preferred to trust him rather than cast in their lot with rebellious sipáhís. His vigorous action, that of Surat Singh, supported by Devnáráin Singh, by the Rájá of Banáras, and by Pandit Gokal Chand, preserved the great city of Banáras to the British.[1]
Meanwhile, Neill was not idle. In the midst of the contest he had assumed command. Some of the 13th Irregulars had remained faithful. The Sikhs, recovering from their mad escapade, returned to their duty. The indigo planters of the district, prominently Mr F. C. Chapman, volunteered their services. In a few days order was restored in the immediate vicinity of the holy city. The presence of Mr Gubbins and his companions was a voucher that that order would not be again disturbed. Other European troops were coming up from below. On the 9th of June, then, Neill, full of resolution to save Allahábád and to recover Kánhpur, set out for the former place.
- ↑ For their conduct during these trying times Mr Gubbins was made a Companion of the Bath; Rao Devnáráin Singh and Súrat Singh received titles and rewards. The Rájá, too, received the thanks of the Government.
