English: Plate 18. View from Residency Look-Out Tower.

This is a view taken from the top of the Residency, of that part of the city through which the survivors of Lucknow forced their way. The pillars in front are the ruins of the “ Nobut Khana” gateway, which forms the subject of a previous sketch. The lofty range of buildings beyond is the “ Chata Munzil,” which was occupied and so gallantly defended by the relieving force under Sir James Outram. The most distant edifice, slightly to the left of the Chata Munzil, is the Mess-house of Her Majesty’s 32nd Foot, which the enemy had strongly fortified, and from which they opposed the forces under General Havelock, and under Sir Colin Campbell. The farthest building on the left is the “ Mootee Mahul,” from the loopholes of which so destructive a volley was kept up upon the advancing column under Havelock; and the house to the right of it, in the very centre of the illustration, is “ Martin’s Bungalow,” close to the bridge of boats, which was one of the enemy’s most important positions, but from which they were speedily driven in confusion. There is, perhaps, no more beautiful prospect, either in the Eastern or the Western world, than the view from the bridge of boats, looking up the river towards the Chata Munzil at sunset. The banks of the stream are green and velvety as those of England, while 'the magnificent piles of buildings rising sheer out of the river almost remind the beholder of the canals of Venice. The distant foliage too, for which Lucknow is famous amongst the cities of the East, and the glorious hues of the setting sun, gilding dome, minaret, and spire, combine to form a picture which may perhaps be rivalled elsewhere, but can hardly be surpassed. The open space to the left was out of range of our guns, and consequently was thronged with the enemy. It was here that they formed their columns preparatory to attack; and here too they used to drill their recruits, who, considering the indifferent example which has hitherto been invariably set them by their veteran comrades, are hardly likely to turn out good soldiers.

A plate from Sketches & Incidents of the Siege of Lucknow. From Drawings Made during the Siege, by Clifford Henry Mecham, Lieutenant Madras Army, with descriptive notices by George Couper, esq. late secretary to the Chief Commissioner of Oude. First edition, tinted lithographed title with vignette, 27 views on 17 tinted lithographed plates, folio, Day & Son, published 1 Oct 1858.