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49. 'File 14/6 EXPLOITATION IN MUSCAT TERRITORY BY GEOLOGISTS'
- Description:
- Abstract: The file contains correspondence on two matters in 1937 and 1940 respectively:Correspondence (includes copy of original letter in Arabic, folio 3) in 1937 concerns a complaint from the Sultan of Muscat and Oman about the arrival in Buraimi of a relative (Sultan bin Zaid) of the Shaikh of Abu Dhabi with representatives of an oil company to undertake oil reconnaissance.Correspondence in 1940 discusses proposed visits to Gulf by officers of Geological Survey of India.This correspondents are the Political Resident in the Gulf (William Rupert Hay); the Political Agent, Muscat; the Sultan of Muscat and Oman [Sa‘īd bin Taymūr].Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 10; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
50. 'CONFIDENTIAL VOL. B.58. 86/7-X P.C.L. TRUCIAL COAST'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains correspondence between the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf (Trenchard Craven Fowle, Charles Geoffrey Prior), the Political Agent at Bahrain (Hugh Weightman, Reginald George Alban), the India Office (John Percival Gibson, Roland Tennyson Peel), the Foreign Office (Lacy Baggallay, Harry Maurice Eyres), the Petroleum Department (Frederick Charles Starling), Admiralty (Clifford George Jarrett) and Petroleum Development (Trucial Coast) Limited (Ernest Vincent Packer, Basil Henry Lermitte, John Skliros, H H Wheatley) regarding progress with oil concessions on the Trucial Coast.Discussion centres primarily on concession agreements for Abu Dhabi and Kalba [Kalbā] which had been obtained by Petroleum Development (Trucial Coast) in 1938/1939, and the omitted clauses and rewording of the concession agreement which had been undertaken in an attempt to simplify the process. Also discussed are the political agreements between the company and His Majesty’s Government for each concession which would no longer require approval by the ruler of the state and discussing amended clauses to incorporate this decision.In relation to the Kalba concession matters discussed included ensuring sufficient safeguards and guarantees were in place to protect Shaikh Hamad bin Sa’id [Ḥamad bin Sa‘īd Āl Qasimī], who was a minor, and his state whilst it was under the rulership of Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmad bin Sultan [Khalid bin Aḥmad bin Sulṭān Āl Qasimī] as Regent. A copy of the Abu Dhabi Concession agreement can be found at folios 134-140 and Political agreement at folios 160-16; copies of the Kalba political agreement can be found at folios 64-69 and 164-165.Other matters discussed in the volume include:a five year exploration permit granted by the Shaikh of Ajman (Shaikh Rāshid Bin Ḥumaid Al-Nu`aimī) to Petroleum Concessions Limited, a copy of which can be found at folios 51-52;copies of lettersin Arabic and English from Ernest Vincent Packer, PCL to the Political Agent at Bahrain, the Sultan of Muscat, the Shaikh of Sharjah, the Shaikh of Dubai and the Regent at Kalba regarding the lack of an annual report for 1940 as owing to war conditions no work had been undertaken;the appointment of F A Ball as Chief Local Representative for Petroleum Development (Qatar) Limited and the decision to retain Ernest Vincent Packer as General Manager at Bahrain and appoint Basil Henry Lermitte as Chief Local Representative for Petroleum Development (Trucial Coast) Limited;a report by the Master of the Steamship Barpetaof an oil seepage 15 miles North-East of Halul Island [Ḩālūl] and subsequent investigation into the site where oil was welling up from a submarine gushe;.the decision by Petroleum Development (Trucial Coast) Limited in 1941 to exercise its right to a one year extension on their exploration permit and to re-open negotiations with the Shaikh of Ras al Khaimah [Ra's al Khaymah] (Shaikh Sulṭān bin Sālim Āl Qasimī) in the hope of acquiring an extension to cover up to a year following the end of the war.A series of file notes which were maintained as a record of the correspondence in the volume can be found at folios 192-198.Physical description: Foliation: The main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover, and terminates at the inside back cover; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is present in parallel between ff 5-191; these numbers are also written in pencil, and can be found in the same position as the main sequence, but they are not circled. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
51. Book No: 53 Letters Outward
- Description:
- Abstract: The correspondence in this volume consists of letters from the Resident at Bushire (Lieutenant-Colonel Ephraim Gerrish Stannus; Captain David Wilson) and the Assistant Resident at Bushire (Samuel Hennell) mainly to the Secretary to the Government of Bombay (William Newnham); The Accountant General at Bombay (John Wedderburn); The Shaikh of Bushire (Shaikh Nassir [Nasir]); the Envoy to the Court of Persia (John Macdonald); and the Senior Marine Officer in the Gulf of Persia (Captain Walker).The main subject of the correspondence concerns relations between the Residency and authorities in Bushire following threats made by Shaikh Hossein [Shaikh Ḥusayn] to attack the Residency; the decision by the Resident, Lieutenant-Colonel Ephraim Gerrish Stannus, to withdraw from Bushire for a time; and the Residency's re-establishment in Bushire in late March 1827, under the command of the new Resident, Captain David Wilson, following the Prince Governor of Fars (Ḥusayn Ali Mirza) decision to agree to the removal of Shaikh Hossein [Shaikh Ḥusayn] in order to resolve the situation.Interspersed throughout the volume are financial accounts for the Residency, relating particularly to payments for the return of soldiers to India, disbursements for the British Mission in Tehran and accounts of expenditure accrued by the Resident whilst on tour or in camp.other items of interest within the volume include:A Letter from Stannus to the Secretary to Government at Bombay observing that the recent offensive against the Residency had highlighted the helpless state of the location of the Residency, particularly as it was within 200 yards of the Towns towers, and 2 miles from the nearest fresh water (ff 20-21).The movements of the vessels in the Persian Gulf Squadron around the Gulf, including ensuring the availability of a British vessel to patrol the pearl banks during fishing season and for the Resident's annual tour.The seizure by the Imam of Muscat of the former Shaikh of Bushire Abdool Russool, and his eventual releaseRelations between Tannoon [Tahnun bin Shakbut[, Shaik of Aboothabee [Shaikh of Abu Dhabi] and Sultan ben Suggar [Sultan bin Saqr], Shaikh of Sharga [Shaikh of Sharjah] including their attacks on each others towns, and their ongoing attempts at peace, as well as their understanding of Sir William Keir Grant's Treaty with the Arab Tribes, January 1820 and how it affects such actions.The seizure by Persian authorities of a number of Jews in Bushire, including the Residency Shroff (banker) and attempts to take them to Shiraz (f 98v).A letter from the Arch-Bishop of Persian and Indian Armenians in Julfa requesting the appointment of Menatsaken Ter Stephens, a vaccinator of Cow Pox in Baghdad, and formerly from Julfa to undertake vaccination work in Isfahan, July 1827 [f. 103]Correspondence with the Imam of Muscat (Sa‘id bin Sulṭān) regarding the Sultan's attempts to claim Mombassa and the island of Seuee [Siyu] and his attempts to prevent French vessels from acquiring slaves along the East African coastline [ff 105v-108].Correspondence with Captain Robert Taylor, Political Agent at Bussorah [Basra] regarding the Imam of Muscat's intentions of aiding the Chaub's [Bani Ka'b] in attacking Bussorah, and his having amassed a fleet at Muscat for that intention [ff 122v-127].The last letter, on folio 128 is incomplete.Physical description: Foliation: The foliation sequence, which should be used for referencing, is circled in pencil, in the top right corner of the recto of each folio. It begins on the front cover, on number 1, and ends on the last folio of writing, on number 128. Foliation errors: f.70 is followed by f.70A. Pagination: There is a pagination sequence, which is written in ink in the top right corners of the rectos and in the top left corners of the versos.Condition: There are signs of insect damage throughout the volume, which have left small holes on most of the folios. None of the damage obscures the contents of the correspondence.
52. Book 88: Letters Outwards
- Description:
- Abstract: The file consists of letters sent outwards from the British Residency in the Persian Gulf; most of the letters have been penned by Samuel Hennell (Assistant Resident), followed by James Morrison (newly appointed Resident), and Thomas Mackenzie (Civil Surgeon). This correspondence is predominantly addressed to the following: Charles Norris, Chief Secretary to the Government of Bombay (Political Department); Thomas Elwon, Commodore of the Indian Naval Squadron in the Persian Gulf; and William Hay Macnaghten, Chief Secretary to the Government of India, at Fort William, Calcutta (Political Department).Some subjects briefly discussed include the replacement of the Governor of Bushire, Mirza Ally Khan [Mīrzā ‘Alī Khān], with Shaikh Nasir [Shaykh Nāṣir], which was achieved with the assistance of the Chief of Koweit [Kuwait]. The file also covers the increasing popularity of Humood ben Azan, Chief of Sohar [Ṣuḥār], and the corresponding decline in the authority of Muscat; the Chief of Sohar had formerly been a subject of the Imam of Muscat, Sa‘īd bin Sultān Āl Sa‘īd. The Imam called in the 'Maritime Arabs' to provide assistance with dealing with the Chief of Sohar, and the correspondence therefore discusses the Assistant Resident's fears that this could lead to an outbreak of general piracy and lawlessness.Another political matter that gets some attention is a contest over Katif [Al-Qaṭīf] between Fasil ben Turki [Faisal bin Turki bin Abdullah Āl Sa‘ūd], Wahabee [Wahhabi] Chief, and Shaikh Abdoola bin Ahmed [Shaikh ‘Abdullāh bin Aḥmad Āl Khalīfah], Chief of Bharein [Bahrain]. The defeat and capture of ‘Alī Mirzā, Prince of Shiraz, by the troops of Mahomed Shah [Muḥammad Shāh Qājār] is also briefly mentioned.The topic that gets the most attention is an 'outbreak of piracy' instigated by the Beniyas [Bani Yas] tribe under their Chief, Shaikh Khuleefa ben Shackboot [Khalīfah bin Shakhbūṭ] of Aboothabee [Abu Dhabi], and their subsequent suppression via British naval power. It therefore covers the process of establishing restitution payments for the Beniyas's 'acts of piracy', and subsequent measures taken by the British to enforce the Chief's compliance.Some letters in the file attempt to draw the attention of the Government of Bombay to the poor state of the Indian Naval Squadron in the Persian Gulf; the Resident considers the resources available to be inadequate for the duties required of the force. It therefore contains the Resident's recommendations to the Government concerning the number and types of ships that should be stationed in the Gulf.The file contains the following notable enclosures:Memorandum of the property and cash plundered by the subjects of Shaikh Khuleefa ben Shackboot of Aboothabee, the restitution of which is required by that Chief, dated 14 January 1835 (see f 5).List of the vessels plundered by the Joasmee [Qāsimī] and Beniyas tribes when cruising against Sohar on the coast of Batinah [Al-Bāṭinah] as allies of the Imam of Muscat, dated 27 February 1835 (see f 19v).List of demands to be made on the Chief of Aboothabee in compensation for the 'outrages' committed by the Beniyas on the 'peaceable Arabs' of the Persian Gulf, dated 27 April 1835 (see f 39v).General statement of the vessels 'detained or piratically' seized by the Beniyas tribe and subsequently recovered by the Persian Gulf Squadron, dated 21 May 1835 (see f 48).Translation of a truce agreed by the Arabian Chiefs for a period of six months, dated 21 May 1835 (see ff 51v-52).Statement of the cash and property received from the Beniyas together with detail of disbursements, dated 5 July 1835 (see ff 55v-56).Sketch of naval means estimated as required for the efficient discharge of the duties of the Indian Naval Squadron in the Persian Gulf, dated 16 December 1835 (see ff 85v-86).The content has undergone a degree of weeding as indicated by the gaps in the original pagination, and some content is therefore missing as a result. In addition, some letters are only present as fragments (i.e. only the beginning, or the end of certain letters can be found within).Physical description: Foliation: The foliation sequence commences at the cover and terminates at the last folio; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.The file contains the following foliation corrections; 1, and 1A.Pagination: An original pagination sequence is also present in the file; this sequence is written in ink, and the numbers are located in the top outermost corner of each page. There are gaps in the pagination indicating that the file has undergone a degree of weeding.
53. Vol 108: Native Letters Inward
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume consists of translations of (and substances of) letters in Arabic and Persian received by the British Residency in the Persian Gulf; the original letters are not present in the volume. The greatest proportion of this correspondence is from the Resident's native agents throughout the Persian Gulf at Bahrein [Bahrain], Lingah [Bandar-e-Lengeh], Muscat, Sharjah, and also from the News Writer at Shiraz. Most of the remaining correspondence is from various Chiefs/Governors/Shaikhs from across the Gulf, their relations, or subjects; leaders from Persia and Oman are the most heavily represented.Developments in Persia are a frequent inclusion in the correspondence, particularly with regard to news surrounding Shiraz, and the Government of Fars. Events surrounding the diplomatic rupture between the British and the Government of Bushire, and the temporary removal of the Residency to Karak [Khārk, Jazīreh-ye] in March 1839 are also included, along with subsequent efforts by the Persians to induce the Resident to return.Updates on the situation in Nejde [Najd] can also be found within. These cover the defeat of Ameer Fysul [Amīr Fayṣul] by Koorshid Pacha [Khūrshid Pāshā], the Commander of Egyptian Forces in Nejde, and the subsequent establishment of Ameer Khalid bin Soud [Amīr Khālid bin Sa'ud] as the Governor of that province. It therefore also includes reports on the Commander's efforts to induce the submission of Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed [Shaikh ‘Abdullāh bin Aḥmad Āl Khalīfah], Chief of Bahrein, to Egypt; he claims that the island is a tributary of Nejde. This includes the further efforts of his agent, Mahomed bin Muttuk, to secure the submission of the various Arab tribes in Oman; a move requiring the occupation of Braymee, held by the Naim tribe which is hostile to Egyptian expansion. As a result, accusations of collusion with this agent — made by the Arab Chiefs against each other — can also be found within; the main belligerents being Shaikh Sultan bin Suggur [Sulṭān bin Saqr], Chief of the Joasmees [Qāsimī]; and Shaikh Kuleefa bin Shakboot [Khalīfah bin Shakhbūṭ], Chief of the Beniyas.The conflict between Esa bin Tareef [‘Isá bin Ṭarīf] of the Al Ali tribe with the Chief of Bahrein is also featured to an extent, along with the abandonment of the Al Ali by the Chief of Beniyas, as a result of the increasing threat from Egyptian forces from Nejde.The correspondence also includes material of a more routine nature, such as the relaying of letters and packets, to reports on the movements of British ships. It also includes reports relating to the restitution of property plundered at sea.Please note that Bahrein is also spelt Bharein, and Shiraz is also spelt Sheeraz within the volume.Physical description: Pagination: The volume contains an original pagination sequence, which commences at the first page of text and terminates at the last page; these numbers are written in ink (with additions in pencil), and can be found in the top outermost corners of each page. Page 225 has been omitted from this sequence; this is likely to be a result of human error.
54. Vol 116: 'Secret Letter Book Volume 3'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume consists of secret correspondence sent outwards by the British Resident in the Persian Gulf, Samuel Hennell. These letters are primarily addressed to either the Chief Secretary of the Government of Bombay (either Lestock Robert Reid or John Pollard Willoughby), or the Secret Committee at India House in London. The remainder are addressed to various officers of either the British Government, or the East India Company.The subject matter is primarily concerned with the expansion of Egyptian influence towards Bahrein [Bahrain] and Oman through the conquests of the Egyptian commander Khorshid Pasha [Khūrshid Pāshā]; the expansion of Egyptian power is viewed as a threat to British interests in the Persian Gulf. Much of the volume therefore concerns itself with the efforts of the Resident to unite the Arab tribes of Oman in resistance to the Egyptians. More specific details in relation to this subject are as follows:The expulsion of Sued bin Moottuk from Oman, and rumours of his possible return at the head of an Egyptian force to subdue the region.The efforts of the Resident to secure restitution for the Naeem tribe of Brymee for an attack made upon them by the Beniyas [Bani Yas] tribe of Aboothabee [Abu Dhabi].Negotiations to arrange for the resettlement of Esa ben Tareef [‘Isá bin Ṭarīf] and the Al Ali tribe from Aboothabee to another part of the Persian Gulf, and/or affect a reconciliation with Shaikh Abdollah ben Ahmed [‘Abdullāh bin Aḥmad Āl Khalīfah], Shaikh of Bahrein.The Resident's mediation of a reconciliation between Sa‘īd bin Sultān Āl Sa‘īd, Imam of Muscat, and Sued Humood bin Azen, Chief of Sohar [Ṣuḥār].Ideas for enhancing the power of influence of the British in the Persian Gulf.The designs of Khorshid Pasha to conquer or subdue Bahrein, and the political position of Shaikh Abdollah ben Ahmed on the island.The deputation of Captain Akins Hamerton, 15th Regiment Bombay Native Infantry, to Brymee to obtain information on the condition of the town's defences, and his later appointment as Political Agent to Muscat.To a limited extent the correspondence relays news from Persia, primarily from Shiraz. This relates to disturbances in that town, rumours related to the travel plans of the Persian Shah (Muḥammad ‘Alī Shāh Qājār), Persian warlike preparations, and any potential threat to the British at Karrack. It also contains a few updates on affairs at Bushire.The British occupation of Karrack [Khārk, Jazīreh-ye] is therefore also covered within the volume; primarily this concerns measures required to keep the garrison supplied, the health of the troops, and suggestions for the improvement of the island's defences. In addition, the matter of Shaikh Nasir's [Shaykh Nāṣir] expulsion from Karrack, and his later restoration to the Governorship of Bushire is also covered.Also discussed within the file is the inadequacy of the strength of the naval squadron stationed in the Persian Gulf, and various methods for addressing this. This is cited in a number of instances as a factor which prevents the orders of Government from being carried out. The volume contains a split index; the first part is located on folio 2, and the second part is on folio 141.Physical description: Condition: The binding of the volume has come apart, and the front and back covers have suffered significant damage. As a result, the remains of the covers have become detached from the volume.Foliation: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover and terminates at the back cover; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.Pagination: The volume also contains an original pagination sequence written in ink.
55. Vol 166: 1850 Squadron, Persian Gulf
- Description:
- Abstract: The file contains letters relating to the Indian Naval Squadron of the Persian Gulf. The three main correspondents are the following: Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Hennell, Resident in the Persian Gulf, Bushire; Commodore John Patterson Porter, Commander of the Indian Naval Squadron in the Persian Gulf; and Lieutenant James Tronson, Commander of the HC Brig Euphrates. Most of the correspondence is between Hennell and Porter; however, a small number of the letters received by Hennell and Porter respectively are written by Tronson. Two additional correspondents appear in a couple of the enclosed letters in this file: Lieutenant Frederick Erskine Manners and Captain Archibald MacDonald. The two main subjects of the letters in this file are the relations between the various chiefs of the Arab coast and the whereabouts of the pirate, Saheil ben Ateish. Many of the letters addressed to Hennell relay information obtained from the Native Agent at Sharjah, Mullah Husain.Physical description: This volume has an original pagination sequence and a foliation sequence:Pagination: The pagination sequence runs from 1 to 154. The sequence is complete, although not every page is numbered.Foliation: The foliation sequence is written in pencil, in the top right corner of the recto of each folio. It begins on the front cover of the file, on 1A, and runs through to the final page of the file, ending on number 47. It should be noted that 1A is followed by 1B and that folio number 9 is followed by 10A and 10B. This is the sequence used by this catalogue to reference items within the file.
56. Vol 179 1852/53 Squadron, Persian Gulf
- Description:
- Abstract: This file contains letters, both inward and outward, relating to the Indian Naval Squadron in the Persian Gulf (also referred to as the Persian Gulf Squadron). Most of the correspondence is between the Commander of the Persian Gulf Squadron and the Resident in the Persian Gulf. At the beginning of 1852, the Resident in the Persian Gulf was Samuel Hennell, who is the recipient of the first two letters in this file. In March 1852, Hennell was succeeded by Arnold Burrowes Kemball, who appears as both correspondent and recipient. The other officers who appear as both correspondent and recipient are John Patterson Porter, Commander of the Persian Gulf Squadron, and his successor, George Robinson. In addition to the letters between the aforementioned offices there are four letters, addressed to the Commander of the Persian Gulf Squadron, which were originally enclosed with other letters (not present in this file) from the Commander of the Persian Gulf Squadron to the Resident in the Persian Gulf. The correspondents of these letters are: Lieutenant George William Leeds, Commander of the Honourable Company's schooner Constance; Lieutenant James Longden Stevens, Commander of the Honourable Company's sloop Clive; Lieutenant James Tronson, Commander of the Honourable Company's brigantine Tigris.Much of the correspondence in the file includes intelligence received from the Native Agent at Sharjah, Hadji Yacoob. Subjects covered include: an attack against the Banī Qitab tribe, reportedly launched by Shaikh Said bin Tahnun Al Nahayan of Abu Dhabi; reported acts of piracy off the Arabian coast; the whereabouts of the plundered cargo of the merchant ship, the Centaur; reports of slaves being imported from Zanzibar.Physical description: Pagination: There is an incomplete pagination sequence, which is written in ink, in the top right corners of the rectos and in the top left corners of the versos. The sequence runs from 16 to 187 and has many gaps.Foliation: There is a foliation sequence, which is circled in pencil, in the top right corner of the recto of each folio. It begins on the front cover, on number 1, and ends on the inside of the back cover, on number 30. This is the sequence that has been used by this catalogue to reference items within the file.
57. Vol 33 Miscellaneous letters inward and outward
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains letters relating mainly to British naval patrols in the Persian Gulf, acts of piracy and hostilities between rival native chiefs as follows: two letters from the Chief Secretary, Political Department, Bombay Castle to the British Political Resident in the Persian Gulf at Bushire about a rumoured Persian attack on Bahrain planned by Hossain Ali Mirza, Prince of Sherauz [Shīrāz] (ff 1B-2v) and an attack on Dubai boats by the Chief of Abothebee [Abu Dhabi], Mahomed Been Shakboot, [Shaikh Muḥammed bin Shakhbut Āl Nahyān] (ff 9-14v); two letters of instruction from Captain Charles Sealy, Senior Marine Officer in the Persian Gulf to Captain George Walker, commanding the Honourable Company (HC) cruizer Ternate(f 5-5v) and Lieutenant George Herne, commanding the Honourable Company (HC) cruizer Nautilus(f 6-6v) regarding their sea patrol of the Pearl Banks between Shaga [Sharjah] and Bahrein [Bahrain] and the planned interception of two pirate boats returning from Zanzibar, together with a letter of reply from Lieutenant George Herne reporting the outcome (f 15-15v); a general letter of instruction from Captain Charles Sealy to all marine officers aboard HC cruizers stationed in the Persian Gulf, listing their sea patrol duties (ff 7-8v); a letter of enquiry from Henry Willock, the British envoy to Persia, to the British Political Resident at Bushire, about British and Indian exports shipped to Persian Gulf ports (ff 3-4v).The volume title ‘Bushire Residency Book No 33 Miscellaneous letters inward and outward 5 Jan 1824-25 May 1824’ is typewritten and appears on a modern title page that has been inserted at the front of the volume (folio 1A).Physical description: Foliation: the letters in the volume are numbered 1B, then 2 to 15, from front to back. A modern, typewritten tile page has been inserted in the front of the volume and is numbered 1A. The numbering is written in pencil in the top right corner, on the recto of every folio.The 7 letters in the volume were originally numbered in ink and in most cases, on both the recto and verso as follows: 71-73; 90-92, 204-206, 207, 219-228, 242.
58. Vol 65: Letters Inward
- Description:
- Abstract: This file consists of correspondence relating to the Indian Navy in the Persian Gulf. Most of the correspondence is addressed to Major David Wilson, Resident in the Persian Gulf, Bushire, by the Commanding Officer of the Indian Navy in the Persian Gulf, William Sowden Collinson. In addition, there are several letters addressed to Wilson by other marine officers, plus copies of correspondence between Collinson and some of his fellow marine officers. A significant amount of the correspondence in this file exists in the form of reports of the general proceedings of individual East India Company ships. Each report is divided into two columns: the first column, which has the heading 'Orders Received', consists of instructions issued to the ship's commanding officer, either by the Senior Marine Officer or by the Resident in the Persian Gulf; the second column, which has the heading 'Detail of Execution', contains the commanding officer's account of how the orders have been carried out. The first of these reports (see ff 4-8), which concerns the Honourable Company's surveying ship, the Benares,commanded by Stafford Bettesworth Haines, ranges in date from 30 June 1829 to 14 August 1829. The first set of orders, which appears in the left-hand column, is issued by Thomas Elwon, Senior Marine Officer; the remaining orders are given by Major David Wilson, Resident in the Persian Gulf. Haines's responses to these orders appear in the right-hand column. The next report (see ff 26-27), which relates to the general proceedings of the Honourable Company's brig of war, the Tigris,commanded by John Sawyer, ranges from 12 to 27 March 1830. In addition, there are similar reports for the Euphrates,commanded by William Denton (see f 35 and ff 46-47, dated 30 May-3 June and 15 June-2 July 1830 respectively), and the Elphinstone,commanded by William McDonald (see ff 38-41, dated 13 March-26 May 1830). Other marine officers who feature in this file as correspondents include William Lowe, Henry Windham, Edward Wyburd and John Sawyer. Most of the correspondence is concerned with relations between local Arab rulers. The letters received from the various marine officers consist of accounts of their visits to the Arabian coast. Details found in these letters include:News of fortifications being built at Manamah [Al-Manāmah] and Maharraq [Al-Muḥarraq], Bahrain;References to letters addressed by David Wilson to Abdoolah Ben Ahmed [Shaikh Abdullah ibn Aḥmad Āl Khalīfah] of Bahrain, requesting that the latter relinquish property which has purportedly been taken by his men from vessels belonging to the Chief of Moobat;Reports on relations between the Imam of Muscat [Sa‘īd bin Sultān Āl Bū Sa‘īd] and Abdoolah Ben Ahmed;News of a peace having been concluded between Sooltan Ben Sugger [Sulṭān bin Saqr Āl Qāsimī, ruler of Ra's al-Khaymah and Sharjah] and Sheik Thanoon [Tahnun bin Shakhbut Āl Nahyān, Shaikh of Abu Dhabi];Speculation that the predatory incursions of some Bedouin tribes into the territories of the Imam of Muscat are being encouraged both by Sooltan Ben Sugger and by the opposite branch of the Imam's own family;Reports on the growing power of the Wahabee [Wahabi] Chieftain, Toorkee Ben Sood [Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad Āl Sa‘ūd, founder of the Second Saudi State];News of an attack by the Imam of Muscat on the town of Sohar [Ṣuḥār].In addition, there are two letters addressed to Wilson which are not written by marine officers. The first is a letter signed by a number of Armenians from Julfa [Jolfā], in Ispahan [Eşfahān], in which the Resident is thanked for having sent a vaccin inoculator [ sic] to that place. The second item is a statement, addressed to the Bushire authorities by Alexander Ogilvie, Chief Officer of the Poop(and signed by a number of witnesses), in which Ogilvie complains of having been subjected to abusive language by one of the ship's passengers.Physical description: Foliation: There is an incomplete foliation sequence and a complete foliation sequence. The complete foliation sequence is circled in pencil, in the top right corner of the recto of each folio. It begins on the front cover, on number 1, and ends on the last folio of writing, on number 47. This is the sequence which has been used by this catalogue to reference items within the file.
59. Vol 80: Translation Book 1833 (Native Letters Inward)
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume consists of translations and substances of letters (in Arabic and Persian) sent to the British Resident in the Persian Gulf; the volume consists of translations only, so no originals can be found within. This correspondence is primarily from the Resident's native agents stationed throughout the Gulf at Bahrein [Bahrain], Lingah [Bandar-e-Lengeh], Muscat, Shargah [Sharjah], and Shiraz. It also contains translations of correspondence received from various rulers across the region; such as Shaikh Sultan bin Suggur [Sulṭān bin Saqr], Chief of the Joasmees [Āl Qāsimī]; and the Imam of Muscat, Sa‘īd bin Sultān Āl Sa‘īd. Primarily the subject matter consists of updates on recent events in Nejde [Najd], Oman, and Persia.More specifically for Persia, this includes political disturbances related to the declining authority of Fat′h Ali Shah Qajar, and military preparations at Shiraz for a contest over the succession between Ḥusayn ‘Alī Mirzā (Governor of Fars) and his brother the Prince Royal, Abbas Mirza [‘Abbās Mīrzā]; interrupted by the death of the latter. Reports on the movements of key figures, and outbreaks of disease are also common.The extension of Wahabee [Wahhabi] power over Oman, and their conflict with Bahrein is also covered. The Wahabee are attempting to reduce the Shaikhs of Bahrein to submission, along with the rest of Oman; other efforts to resist the Wahabees are also mentioned (such as those of the Imam of Muscat), as are repeat outbreaks of war between the Joasmee and Beniyas tribes; on both land and sea. The events surrounding the murder and usurpation of Shaikh Tahnoon [Ṭaḥnūn bin Shakhbūṭ Āl Nahyān], Chief of the Beniyas [Bani Yas], by his brothers, Khuleefa bin Shakeboot [Khalīfah bin Shakhbūṭ Āl Nahyān] and Sultan bin Shakeboot [Sulṭān bin Shakhbūṭ Āl Nahyān], are also covered.Incidents of piracy and efforts to affect the restitution of plundered property are reported on, as is the conveyance of correspondence, and packets throughout the region.Physical description: Foliation: The foliation sequence commences at the title page and terminates at the last folio; these numbers are written in pencil, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.The volume contains the following foliation corrections; 1, and 1A.Pagination: An original pagination sequence with gaps is present in the file between ff 3-122; these numbers are written in ink, and are located in the top outermost corners of each page. Some numbers have been lost as a result of damage to the corners of the folios.
60. Letters Outward
- Description:
- Abstract: The volumes consist of letters outwards from the British Residency in the Persian Gulf. Most of these letters were originally penned by Samuel Hennell (Resident), with a few towards the end of the second volume penned by Thomas Edmunds (Assistant Resident). Most of these letters are addressed to John Pollard Willoughby, Secretary to the Government of Bombay in the Political and Secret Departments; Lestock Robert Reid, Acting Chief Secretary to the Bombay Government; George Barnes Brucks, Commodore of the Indian Naval Squadron in the Persian Gulf; the Secret Committee of the Court of the Directors of the East India Company, London; and Robert Taylor, Political Agent in Turkish Arabia, Bagdad [Baghdad]. The remaining correspondence is directed towards various officers/officials/servants of the British Government and the East India Company. Some letters also have translations of correspondence to and from various rulers in and around the Persian Gulf enclosed.Much of the correspondence concerns the conquest of Nedgd [Najd] by Khorshed Pasha [Khūrshid Pāshā], Commander of Egyptian Forces in Central Arabia, and the establishment of Ameer Khalid [Amīr Khālid] — also known as Khaled ben Saood — as ruler of that province. Much of the correspondence therefore concerns itself with Khorshed Pasha's efforts to extend Egyptian influence throughout the rest of the Arabian Peninsula and therefore extend the power of its ruler Mahomed Ally Pasha [Muḥammad ‘Alī Pāshā]; the British are specifically concerned about Bahrein [Bahrain], Bagdad, Bussora [Basra], Koweit, and the various rulers of Oman submitting to becoming vassals of Egypt. Much of the subject matter therefore relates to the Resident trying to check the advancement of Egyptian power in order to maintain Britain's dominant position, its reputation, and prestige in the Persian Gulf. A specific example being the removal of Sued ben Mootluk, an Agent to Khorshid Pasha operating in Oman; the agent was claiming to have been empowered to rule Oman on Khorshid Pasha's behalf.Another major topic concerns political relations between Britain and Persia. A diplomatic rupture between the two states takes place, and all communications between the Resident and the Government of Fars is therefore suspended. The correspondence covers events in Southern Persia leading up to — and following — the removal of the British Residency from Bushire on 29 March 1839 to Karrack [Khārk, Jazīreh-ye]; a diary of events leading up to the removal of the Residency is enclosed. The correspondence also concerns itself with the British force stationed — without the permission of the Persian Government — on the island of Karrack, along with subsequent reports of disturbances surrounding Shiraz and Bushire.Other matters featured in the volumes include a visit to the Persian Gulf by Sir Frederick Maitland, Commander-in-Chief of the East Indies and China, aboard HMS Wellesley; efforts by the British to prevent the abduction of Africans for sale as slaves in the Persian Gulf; and discussions relating to the deployment of the ships of the Indian Naval Squadron in the Gulf.It also contains material of a routine nature such as the transmission of letters, packets, and parcels; and the issuing of disbursements.The volumes appear to have been subjected to a degree of weeding, as evidenced by the gaps present in the original pagination. As a result, some letters are only present as fragments (i.e. only the opening or ends of some letters remain).Physical description: Condition: The volumes are by and large in good condition, though on a small number of folios the ink has faded; in consequence, the text is therefore difficult to read on these folios. A very small number of folios have also suffered physical damage at the edges, and therefore a small proportion of the text has been lost.Foliation: The foliation sequence runs through two physical volumes. This sequence commences at the first folio of the volume one and terminates at the back cover of volume two; these numbers are written in pencil, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.The volumes contain the following foliation corrections; f. 111, and ff. 111A-F.Pagination: There is an original pagination sequence, which is written in ink, that is also present in the volumes between ff. 1-220; these numbers are located in the top outermost corner of each page. There are a large number of gaps in this sequence, indicating that a degree of weeding has been undertaken at some point in the past.