94 
THE ORIENTAL ANNUAL. 
was upon the whole the most advantageous, and we 
accordingly adopted it.” 
Such were the outward difficulties of this fastness, 
defended by a brave and skilful commander, Benee 
Singh, with a garrison of five thousand hardy Rajh- 
poots and Ghoseins, in addition to irregulars ; and 
yet, within eight-and-forty hours from the opening 
of their batteries, the British troops had stormed and 
carried the fort. But, fortunately, with British 
troops and British commanders, increased difficulties 
only give rise to renewed ardour and determination. 
The illustrious Duke occupied the ground in front of 
the southern face, through which pass the only roads 
communicating with the plains. Another division, 
commanded by Colonel Stevenson, by dint of perse- 
verance against difficulties almost insurmountable, 
succeeded in dragging a battering train through 
ravines and mountain torrents, to the table-land 
overlooking the northern side. From this point the 
main assault was made, while the garrison was 
diverted by feints upon the south and north-west 
gates. After the breaches were reported practicable, 
the storming party, gallantly commanded by Lieut.- 
Colonel Kenny, carried it like true British soldiers, 
though opposed in the most determined manner by 
Benee Singh, in person, supported by the Killadar 
and a strong force of chosen men ; all of whom, in- 
cluding their leaders, fell sword in hand, having 
solemnly sworn that they would die rather than 
