 The 52nd later returned to India, arriving in Allahabad in 1853. The regiment found the heat and dust of India gruelling, and Major Bayley, of the 52nd, described the great clouds of dust which rose over their columns in the march from Allahabad to Umballa in 1853 – 4; "it was worse in the rear than in the front; so, in order that everyone should have a fair chance, the order of march was changed daily." They were in India during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, where they took part in the Siege of Delhi. Once breaches had been made by the artillery by a bombardment of the walls, an attempt was made on the city on 14 September. The Kashmir Gate was blown by a party of engineers, accompanied by Bugler Robert Hawthorne of the 52nd, who won the Victoria Cross for his bravery. The 52nd led the assault on the blown gate; amidst the action, Lance Corporal Henry Smith also won the Victoria Cross. After six days of heavy fighting, the city was won.
