Tom Pearson had introduced himself to Major Newton, and asked permission to accompany his force; saying that his nephew would be able, if necessary, to communicate with the Burmese either before or after the action, and that both would willingly act as aides-de-camp.

The offer was accepted with thanks, and they rode out with him, on the evening of the 16th of January, 1824, to Jatrapur.
At one o'clock in the morning the troops were roused, and marched an hour later.

At daybreak they came in sight of the stockade, and a few shots were at once fired upon the advanced guard by the Burmese.

A portion of their force was lying in a village hard by.
Major Newton at once divided his command into two bodies.

One of these was led by Captain Johnston against the front of the stockade.