THE EXPERIENCES OF A YOUNG OFFICER OF H.M.'s 61st REGIMENT AT FEROZEPORE, DELHI RIDGE AND AT THE FALL OF DELHI DURING THE INDIAN MUTINY 1857.
Yet another book from my library, this is a reprint of a volume originally published sometime around 1890 as far as I can tell. The book only covers a period of about one year. The author served in India from 1852 and was invalided home early in 1858 as a result of debilitation caused by the conditions suffered by the besieging army at Delhi.
The book gives great detail on the initial outbreak of the Mutiny at Ferozepore where the author was stationed and where his Regiment inexplicably remained for several months before being sent to Delhi. The siege and assaults on Delhi are covered in great detail including the very poor conditions.
A whole chapter of the book covers the work of collecting the riches of the city by the Prize Agents and the very tardy payment of prize money which was clearly quite a priority for the author and many of his comrades.
An excellent book and highly recommended as a first hand account of the Siege of Delhi during the Indian Mutiny.
If you're into this period this certainly sounds a worthwhile book Tony. IIRC those leading the assault on the breach could claim a higher amount of prize money, hence no shortage of young officers volunteering for this role, as not only did it bring financial reward but could also lead to promotion etc.
ReplyDeleteHi Steve.... I have never heard of anyone wargaming the Mutiny which is a shame given the opportunities. In fact no one seems to fight any battles from the empire era in India....I wonder why not ??? Yes prize money could be very lucrative for young officers....if they survived !!!!....Regards
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