For the fugitives fleeing Gwalior, there are two tales to tell. One of Major Macpherson and his party that left Gwalior in palanquins and buggies provided by Scindia and surrounded by his bodyguard, and that of Ruth Coopland, travelling in a group of women and children, all hoping no one would cut their throats. The ultimate goal of both parties was Agra. To get there, they would have to cross the Chambal River, the other side of which was in the territory of the Raja of Dholpur. He was friendly to the European cause and had expressed himself, without doubt, to assist any way he could, had any fugitives who would happen to pass through any area under his control. Dinkar Rao had already intimated to Dohlpur Raja that some were on their way, thus preparing the way for Macpherson and any other party on the way. It was a stroke of luck having an ally so close by, and yet it was getting to Dholpur territory that was the problem.