HARDINGE, Henry; Hugh Gough; Harry Smith.

Inquire · Offered by Peter Harrington

The War in India. Despatches of... and Other Documents. Comprising the Engagements of Moodkee, Ferozeshah, Aliwal, and Sobraon. First edition of an early and cornerstone work on the First Sikh War (1845-6), "useful in the way it presents the campaign as it unfolds, rather than with the benefit of hindsight" (Smith, p.94).Despite his superior position as governor-general of India, Sir Henry Hardinge agreed to serve as second-in-command to Sir Hugh Gough for the duration of the war. Gough's victories at Mudki, Ferozeshahr, and Sobraon were won largely through "sheer hard fighting" (ODNB), his somewhat guileless tactics of direct frontal assaults foreshadowing those of the western front. His "courage, chivalry, and racy brogue all contributed to his popularity with his soldiers", as did his conspicuous presence on the battlefield, dressed in his white fighting coat (ODNB). Sir Harry Smith, known for his daring and dashing command, led the final charge in the almost flawless victory at Aliwal.Copies of the first edition are found with a different frontispiece map, entitled "Sketch of the Positions of the British & Seikh Armies on the Sutlej." A second edition was published the same year.

Found via Rare Books Intel, a search across rare-book dealers, auction houses and marketplaces worldwide.