This was too much for the elephants.

As the _feu de joie_ approached nearer and nearer to them they became more and more alarmed, and at last scampered off, dispersing the crowd in every direction.

When it ceased they were quieted and brought back by their _mahouts_, only to start off again when the firing recommenced; but, as it was a perfectly bare plain, without anything for the great creatures to come in contact with, there was no harm done beyond a severe shaking to their riders.

As the sound of the last salvo died away the Viceroy addressed the assemblage.

When he had ceased speaking, the assembly again rose _en masse_ and joined the troops in giving several ringing cheers.
His Highness the Maharaja Sindhia then spoke as follows: '_Shah in Shah Padishah_.