Born to a Scottish father and an Indian mother, the military adventurer James Skinner (1778–1841) acquired wealth and fame in India for raising and leading regiments of irregular cavalry, aiding the British in their wars against the Marathas and Pindaris. Distinguished in battle and generous as a host and patron, Skinner was also fluent in Persian and highly regarded by his men and his superiors. Based on first-hand acquaintance and Skinner's own journal, this two-volume work, published in 1851 by the Scottish traveller and artist James Baillie Fraser (1783–1856), who aimed to represent Skinner 'such as he was in truth, a gallant soldier, a zealous officer, a steady friend, a worthy noble-minded man; and spite of his dark complexion, a true and loyal Briton'.
Contents
Volume 1: Preface; 1. Introductory; 2. General De Boigne, his origin and rise; 3. Lieutenant-Colonel James Skinner; 4. Quarrel between Dowlut Rao Sindea and the widows of his uncle Madhajee; 5. Rajahs of Jeypore refuses his tribute; 6. Murder of Mahratta chiefs by Sindea; 7. Perron's power; 8. Skinner's account of George Thomas; 9. Skinner goes on leave to see his father; 10. Sumroo, or Sombre, his origin and military career. Volume 2: 11. First Mahratta war; 12. Skinner's account of Monson's expedition and retreat; 13. Ameer Khan; 14. Marquis Cornwallis relieves Lord Wellesley; 15. Operations of the reserve division of the army against Ameer Khan; 16. Skinner made Companion of the Bath, and Lieut.-Colonel in H.M.'s service.
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