[The Tiger of Mysore by G. A. Henty]@TWC D-Link bookThe Tiger of Mysore CHAPTER 4: First Impressions 27/40
A French fleet off the coast, however, prevented provisions being sent to him, and, even after the French had retired, the Madras government were so dilatory in forwarding supplies that the army was reduced to the verge of starvation. "It was not until the middle of June that a movement was possible, owing to the want of carriage.
The country inland had been swept bare by Hyder, and, on leaving Cuddalore, Sir Eyre Coote was obliged to follow the seacoast.
When he arrived at Porto Novo, the army was delighted to find a British fleet there, and scarcely less pleased to hear that Lord Macartney had arrived as governor of Madras. "Hyder's army had taken up a strong position, between the camp and Cuddalore, and Sir Eyre Coote determined to give him battle.
Four days' rice was landed from the fleet, and with this scanty supply in their knapsacks, the troops marched out to attack Hyder.
We formed part of the baggage guard and had, therefore, an excellent opportunity of seeing the fight.
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