The two British forces were attacked under almost precisely similar circumstances.

One was splendidly commanded; and the other, it must be confessed, was badly led.
"There was a good deal against us.

The day was in July, and terribly hot and, at every step the troops took, they found the power of the sun increasing, until the heat became intense.

A solitary traveller, in such circumstances, would make but poor travelling; and of course it was vastly worse for troops, advancing heavily laden and formed in column.

The 66th Foot had had tea, and a light breakfast before starting; but the native troops had had nothing to eat since the night before.