Clive's letter to Colonel Lawrence, of the same date, exhibits, in an equally strong manner, his sentiments upon this subject, as well as the affectionate respect he continued to cherish for his friend and commander. It is as follows:—
"My dear friend,
"I have heard with some surprise, that M. Lally has set himself down before Madras, not with an intent, I believe, to besiege it in form, or carry on approaches; if he does, I think he must be either mad, or his situation desperate; at all events, I hope it will be the means of adding fresh laurels to those already gained by my dear friend.
"Colonel Forde has orders to join you with his forces; and we are endeavouring to send you a complete company of one hundred rank and file from hence. In short, we have put every thing to risk here to enable you to engage Lally in the field. I hope Mr. Bouchier will spare you some men from Bombay. I enclose you a short sketch of our strength in these parts; and, considering how much depends upon keeping up our influence in Bengal, you will say there never was a smaller force to do it with.
"God give you success, which will be an increase of honour to yourself, and of much joy to
"Dear Colonel,
"Your affectionate friend and servant,
(Signed) "Robert Clive."
State of the European Force in Bengal, 6th Feb. 1759.
| Doing duty. | Military | Artillery |
|---|---|---|
| Captains. | 6 | 1 |
| Lieuts. | 6 | 8 |
| Ensigns. | 9 | 0 |
| Serjeants. | 36 | |
| Corporals. | 29 | 5 |
| Drummers. | 20 | 2 |
| Privates. | 314* | 86 |
| * Whereof 140 are recruits. | ||