the other side they saw summary punishment, in the shape of the plunder and destruction of their houses, dealt out to those who aided us. But when we evinced signs of vigour, when we began to assume the offensive and vindicate our authority, many of these people came forward and identified themselves with our cause.'
No clearer outline could be given of the causes and effects of the Mutiny. The shock was a terrible one, but it left British power in India more firmly established than ever. Foes and friends rose up where their appearance was least expected. And one lesson will ever be indelibly engraved on the pages of its history, namely, that while the Native Princes of India whom we mistrusted brought their armies and influence to our aid, the Sepoy troops on whom we relied turned against us. From the day when this experience was taken to heart dates the consolidation of our Indian Empire as it now exists.
