The sketch represents the open revolt of the ^Sepoys at Meerut on 10 May 1857. On 24 April eighty-five sowars of the 3rd Cavalry had refused to accept the cartridges given to them. They were sentenced to imprisonment after a trial by court- martial, put in fetters and humiliated in the presence of the whole Brigade on 9 May. Next day the revolt broke out suddenly in the evening. The Sepoys broke open the prison and released their comrades. A great majority of them took the road to Delhi.