After a somewhat confused battle , Tipu 's forces were flanked , he retreated into the city , and Cornwallis began siege operations .
Cornwallis responded with a night - time attack to dislodge Tipu from his lines .
After a somewhat confused battle , Tipu 's forces were flanked , Cornwallis retreated into the city , and Cornwallis began siege operations .
Cornwallis responded with a night - time attack to dislodge Tipu from his lines .