Rajah Brooke : $b the Englishman as ruler of an eastern stateSt. John, Spenser, Sir
History
Rajah Brooke : $b the Englishman as ruler of an eastern state
St. John, Spenser, Sir
James, Rajah of Sarawak, 1803-1868; Sarawak (Malaysia) -- History; Sarawak (Malaysia) -- Kings and rulers -- Biography
The object of the expedition was to attack Sungei Lang—a large
fortified village held by Rentab and his followers, and, if possible,
a stronghold he had constructed on the summit of the Sadok Mountain.
After much skirmishing and firing, the fort was gallantly stormed,
and before sunset was completely in our hands. And glad we were
that there had been no delay, as scarcely were we housed, when a
violent tempest burst, that would have effectually drenched us had we
remained in the open. We stayed in this village whilst our men were
employed punishing the followers of Rentab; but no attempt was made
to attack his fortified post on the summit of the Sadok mountain.
Natives seldom care to continue a campaign after its announced
object has been accomplished, and our object was to take Sungei
Lang. Sadok defied successive expeditions for eight years more. The
Sakarang river was now in flood, so that on our return we passed over
all natural obstructions in safety. We were heartily received by the
Rajah and congratulated on our success, as the storming of Rentab’s
stronghold was no mean achievement with only native followers.
On our arrival at Sarawak we had news of the Commissioners being
expected at Singapore, and H.M.’s. brig _Lily_ arrived to convey
Sir James Brooke and his followers to our Straits Settlements, but
the Rajah had to go alone, as Grant, Brereton and myself were down
with fever, the result of over-exposure to sun and rain and the cold
watches of the night. Brereton did not recover, and in him the Rajah
lost a most efficient and devoted officer.
No one now cares for the Commission sent to inquire into the position
and conduct of Sir James Brooke, Rajah of Sarawak, and Commissioner
and Consul-General in Borneo; but as its results were so disastrous I
must devote a few pages to it.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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