A year on the Punjab frontier, in 1848-49

London: Richard Bentley, 1851. FIRST EDITION. Each volume with half-title, frontispiece portrait in Volume I, 6 plates (3 colored lithograph, 1 double folding), text illustration, 2 folding plans, and a facsimile letter from Vans Agnew to General Van Cortlandt. Contemporary full calf, rebacked, with the gilt logo of the Society of Writers to the Signet on all covers, small stain to lower corner of front board of Volume II; interiors excellent. First edition of Edwardes account of the Punjab Rebellion of 1848, also known as the second Anglo-Sikh War. Edwardes was appointed to the personal staff of Sir Hugh Gough, the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian army, whom he served during the first Anglo-Sikh War (1846-47). Thereafter the Punjab was ruled by a British Resident. With the stirrings of a second rebellion, Edwardes, despite any military training, raised a body of soldiers and defeated rebels loyal to a local Sikh leader. After numerous battles throughout the area, the local governor surrendered following negotiations with Edwardes. As a result of his deeds, he became quite famous and celebrated back in England.

Edwardes (1819-1868) returned to the Punjab on a number of occasions, acting as a political appointee posed with the task of maintaining order in the area. For his role in securing the British victory during the War, he is known as the “Hero of Multan.”.