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13. Papers of Sir John Malcolm relating to his diplomatic missions in Persia and to the country and history of Persia
- Description:
- Abstract: The papers relate to British relations with and diplomatic missions to Persia [Iran], notably John Malcolm’s missions of 1799-1801, 1808 and 1810, Anglo-Persian relations 1812, and the geography and history of Persia as affecting Britain’s position in India.The contents of the three volumes are covered by one list of contents (in the Volume Part 1), which includes the document number stamped at the commencement of each document (1-72), the date, name of correspondent and (in most cases) the subject. The letters are originals unless otherwise stated.Although not bound in this order, the five rough groups of papers are described here below in chronological order for purposes of narrative clarity, followed by the historical surveys.Captain John Malcolm’s letters to Sir George Barlow,with related correspondence,16 January 1801-4 April 1802. (Documents stamped numbers 1-40, ff 8-99.)During this period Malcolm was Private Secretary to Lord Mornington [Richard Wellesley, later Marquess Wellesley], Governor-General of the (Bengal) Presidency of Fort William, at Calcutta [Kolkata], and Barlow was a member of the Supreme Council of Bengal (appointed Provisional Governor-General in 1802). Malcolm’s letters were written during and after his return from his Mission to Persia [Iran] having arrived at Tehran in December 1799 and negotiated political and commercial treaties with the King of Persia [Fath-‘Ali Shāh Qājār] (signed January 1801).The letters notably relate to:Malcolm’s journeys to and across IndiaAdministrative and financial mattersA tiger hunt Malcolm joinedLetters of introduction for patronageAffairs of the merchants at PatnaInstructions from Wellesley for BarlowThe recently ratified treaty with PersiaFinancial relief for the indigo contractors at CalcuttaA request for C Buchanan’s position as Chaplain to the Residency at Calcutta to be made official so that Buchanan can draw allowancesArrangements for the return of Lord Clive (Edward Clive, Governor of Madras) to Europe by seaArrangements for couriers and shipping of Wellesley’s official dispatches to EnglandCommendation for the recent army and navy action against Egypt.General Malcolm’s letters, to Barlow, George Buchan, Secretary to the Governor of Madras, and Lord Minto, Governor-General of the Bengal Presidency at Fort William, Calcutta, 16 April 1808-9 January 1809, and 6 October 1810. (Documents stamped numbers 41-52, ff 100-209.)During this period Malcolm undertook two diplomatic missions to Persia, as envoy appointed by Lord Minto. Arriving at Bushire in May 1808 he did not get any further due to the predominating influence of the French at the Persian Court. After returning to India Malcolm travelled to and gathered a force at Bombay in readiness to either bolster or attack Persia or Turkey if either enabled the French to invade India through their territories. In March 1809, owing to the change of situation in Europe with France occupied in Spain, the British under Harford Jones’s embassy were able to conclude successful political and commercial preliminary treaties. Lord Minto re-appointed Malcolm in 1810 but although he was received by King he made no substantial progress.The letters up to January 1809 cover:Malcolm’s preparations for potential military action against Persia from the Gulph [Persian Gulf], including personnel and escort, and his journey to BombayBritish policy towards the PersiansBritish policy towards the French regarding their apparent ambitions in IndiaNews of French military advances and Napoleon Bonaparte’s plansFranco-Persian relationsProgress of the Russo-Persian warDispatches for Lord MintoActivities and dispatches of Sir Harford Jones, regarding his more successful mission in Persia promoting Anglo-Persian alliances and military collaboration against Russia.Followed by Malcolm’s lengthy account to Lord Minto on Persian affairs, dated 6 October 1810, (sent to Lord Minto from Bagdad [Baghdad]). It incorporates his analysis and opinion of the state of the Persian Empire, its history, geography, ruling dynasty (including character sketches of the King and major princes), the Persian Court, economy, society and culture. Particular attention is paid to: the territories between and routes through Persia and India; background to the current Russo-Persian war; the state of the Persian Army; the King’s policy towards his sons and chief ministers; political prospects for Persia after the King’s death; British and Persian policy towards each other since 1798 with particular reference the campaigns of Napoleon Bounapart [Bonaparte], and Russia and Turkey; diplomatic missions and Anglo-Persian agreements and alliances concluded by Malcolm and Harford Jones; Malcolm’s plan to attack Persia or Turkey from the Gulf, with a small force amassed in Bombay in January 1809, in the event of a French invasion of either country. Malcolm concludes with his suggestions for Britain’s future policy towards Persia, including a proposal to transform the irregular Persian Army into a standing army with British advisors and commanding officers as a means of repelling any invasion of India via Persia. He hints at the possibility of having to make Persia a dependency of Britain in the long-term. (Document 52, ff 142-209)Copy official letters from Charles Pasley, Political Agent, Abushahr [Bushire], to Neil Benjamin Edmonstone, Chief Secretary to the Government of India (numbered 1-7, ff 396-460), and to Brigadier-General John Malcolm (numbered 1-10, ff 461-504), 17 January-7 April 1810, with related intelligence and translated Persian letters from members of the Persian Royal family and Persian ministers. (See also volume IOR/H/733 for related material). (Documents stamped numbers 71-72, ff 396-504.)The letters relate to:Pasley’s journey from Bushire to Shirauz [Shiraz] to see Prince Hassan Ally Meerza [Ḥusayn ‘Alī Mirzā], Governor of FarsThe progress of Sir Harford Jones’s Mission to TehranMalcolm’s departure from Bombay on a parallel Mission to PersiaRelations between the two different embassiesPolicy of the Prince at Shirauz and Persian Court towards MalcolmMalcolm’s activities and preparations at Bushire for advancing towards the King’s Court and uncertainty over whether or not to take valuable giftsSir Harford Jones’s successful negotiations with the King and Crown Prince Abbas Meerza [Abbās Mīrzā Qājār, Crown Prince of Persia] and arrangement for a subsidy to the Persians to be funded from the Residency at BushireConfusion regarding instructions from HM Government, the Court of Directors and Lord Minto, Governor-General of India, to Harford Jones and Malcolm, the collision of authority and the impression given of the Government of IndiaSir Harford Jones’s establishing of his overriding authority over Malcolm’s embassy and the Bushire ResidentProgress of the Russo-Persian War and relations between Turkey and with Persia.Additional correspondents: John Briggs, Assistant; Jaafur Ali Khan [Ja‘afar ‘Alī Khān], Native Agent at Shiraz, providing intelligence from Shirauz; HE Meerza Shuffeea [Mirza Muhammad Shafi’ Mazandarani, Sadr-i A’zam (Prime Minister)]; HE Hajee Mahomed Hoossein Khan, Ameen ud/oo Dowlah [Hāji Muḥammad Ḥusayn Khān Isfahāni Amin al-Dawlah], a senior minister of state; Mahomed Nebbie Khan [Muḥammad Nabī Khān Shirāzī], Governor of Bushire; HRH Hoossein Ally/Ali Meerza [Ḥusayn ‘Alī Mirzā], at Shirauz, Governor of Fars; Prince Abbas Meerza, heir apparent (to his brother in Shirauz); Dr Andrew Jukes, East India Company official travelling with Pasley and subsequently onwards to Tehran acting for Malcolm; Sir Harford Jones, HM Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary.Includes copies of Harford Jones’s renewal of his September 1807 authority from HM Government as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of Tehran, 6 November 1809 (f 494) and account of expenses in relation to the subsidy of 60,000 tomans to be provided to the Persian government (f 497)Copy letters from Sir Gore Ouseley, HM British Ambassador to Persia, to Marquis Wellesley [Richard Wellesley, 1st Marquess Wellesley], Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (officially he had very recently resigned that post), Sir George Barlow, Governor in Council, and William Ouseley, with related documents, 15-26 March 1812. (Documents stamped numbers 53-56, ff 210-238.)During this period the British Government directed diplomatic relations directly from London via their ambassador in Tehran.The letters relate to the definitive (i.e. detailed) political treaty between Britain and Persia, notably background, motivation, difficulties met, role of Hartford Jones in concluding the initial preliminary treaties (political and commercial), reasoning behind each treaty article, its ratification by the Persian King (see f 227) and the supply of 30,000 English muskets (from India and England) for the standing army of 50,000 disciplined troops under Crown Prince Abbas Mirza, Heir Apparent. A copy of the political treaty of twelve articles to be ratified by the Heir Apparent is included (ff 228-238)Document 53 (ff 210-211) comprises a letter from Ouseley to British Orientalist William Ouseley, 15 July 1812, instructing him, on behalf of Fateh Ali Shah [Fath-Ali Shah Qajar, Shah of Iran ‘the King’] and the East India Company, to examine the Persian shore of the Caspian Sea for suitable sites to build docks in which to construct a flotilla of war vessels, to examine the forests in the adjacent area for types of timber, the large harbours and rivers connecting to the Caspian Sea, iron and coal mines in Mazenderan [Mazandaran], local geography, and the state of ship building and commerce in the ports visited.Copies of historical, geographical, socio-cultural, economic and political papers on Persia, compiled by British officials of the East India Company. (Documents numbered 57-70 and 72, ff 239-394, 505.)‘An account of Futty Aly Khan [Fath’ ‘Ali Khan Qajar, Ilkhani of Qajar Tribe], great grand-father of the present majesty, Futty Aly Shah [Fath-Ali Shah Qajar], and of his actions’ (wars) with a history of the dynasty’s territorial acquisitions and losses and conquest of Mazenderan, c 1798-1810, author not identified (ff 239-243)Report on Trade between Bombay and Persia, P S Maister, Custom Master, Bombay, and H Fawcett, for Jonathan Duncan, President and Governor in Council, Bombay, 3 December 1799 (ff 244-257)Report on the ‘Persian Gulf pirates’, history and religion, customs, of the Whabee [Wahabis], Turkish copper, and French trade, by Harford Jones, for G C Osborne, Political Secretary to Governor of Bombay, 1 December 1799 (ff 258-269)‘Sketch of the History of Georgia during the last ten years to elucidate the rise and progress of the Russian connection with that country’, chronological account covering 1795-1804, by Charles Pasley, Political Agent, Abushahr, dated 20 Jan 1805, sent to Samuel Manesty, Resident at Bussora [Basra], 1 February 1805 (ff 270-289)Letter from Malcolm to Neil Benjamine Edmonstone, Secretary to the Governor, Bengal, 12 August 1807, setting out his sentiments on a ‘proposed attack of the Turkish Empire by an expedition fitted out from India against Bussorah [Basra] and Bagdad [Baghdad]’, a preventive policy in the Middle East to deter attacks on India from European powers (ff 290-306)‘Rough Memoir respecting The Political Intercourse of France with Persia. [Taken from the correspondence]’, covering 1805-07, notably the French Mission in April 1805 under Envoy Antoine-Alexandre Romieu (who reached Tehran in September 1805 but died shortly after meeting the Shah) followed by the Mission led by Claude Mathieu de Gardane (1807-09), by unidentified author, c 1808-1812 (ff 307-333)Extract of a letter to the Governor-General at Fort William, containing information on the Persian Royal Family, with fold-out ‘Genealogical Table of the family of Kureem Khan of Persia [Karīm Khān Zand]’, by unidentified author, 7 May 1808 (ff 334-337)Letters from Captain Monier Williams, Surveyor-General, Bombay, to Malcolm, Osborne and Duncan, 13 Apr 1808-23 January 1810, containing geographical and topographical information relative to the countries between Persia and British possessions in India, particularly the southern part of Sind [Sindh] to the western frontiers of Goojerat [Gujarat] and Jhodpoor Territory (Jodhpur, also known as Marwar), i.e. where military operations were likely to take place should a French invasion occur, noting the strength of their armed forces in those areas (ff 338-365)‘Memoir of the Construction of a Map of Persia and Countries lying between the Araxes [also known as Aras], Tigris, and Indus extending from Latitude 230 400 North and Longitude 440 to 700 East’, by William Wilke, Assistant Surveyor, 1 January 1812 (ff 366-379)Account of a visit to the ruins of Babylon, including historical background, undated and author not identified c 1800-1812 (however see W B Selby, Memoir of the Ruins of Babylon, 1859) (ff 380-394)Statement of the ‘Superficial content of each province [of Persia] in English square miles’ (f 505, Paper No. 72).Physical description: Foliation: this file consists of three physical volumes. The foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover of volume one (ff 1-200), through volume two (ff 200-350), and terminates at the inside back cover of volume three (ff 351-509); 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 original pagination sequence dating from the 1920s is also present in parallel; these numbers are also written in pencil and some are also circled, but as they have been superseded are therefore crossed out. This sequence correlates to the description found in Samuel Charles Hill's Catalogue of the Home Miscellaneous Series of the India Office Records(London: HMSO, for the India Office, 1927).
14. Intelligence Forwarded by Sir Alexander Burnes Relating to Progress of the British Invasion of Afghanistan (First Anglo-Afghan War, 1839-1842)
- Description:
- Abstract: Copies of intelligence despatches from Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Alexander Burnes, Envoy to Kelat [Kalat, also spelled Khelat in this volume], to William Hay Macnaghten, Envoy and Minister at Shah Shoojah’s Camp [Shah Shuja ul-Mulk], (copied to John Pollard Willoughby, Secretary to the Government, Bombay [Mumbai]).The intelligence chiefly covers:Burnes’s negotiations with the Khan of Kelat, with regard to the latter facilitating the progress of the British Army of the Indus and its protection through his territory into Afghanistan, notably through the Bolan Pass; the Khan’s attitude towards Shah Shoojah; conditions of his agreement to co-operate with the British; and the subsidy to be paid to him by the BritishThe situation in Candahar [Kandahar] and the overtures and veiled threats sent by Burnes to Sirdar Ruhm Dil Khan [Ruhim Dil Khan], the moollahs [mullahs] and authorities in Candahar, advising them to support the British advance into Afghanistan and Shah ShoojahOvertures and veiled threats sent by Burnes to the tribal leaders and inhabitants of Pisheen [Pishin] advising them to support the British advanceThe likelihood of Persia [Iran] and Russia aiding Dost Mohammed [Dōst Moḥammad Khān, Bārakzay] against Shah Shoojah and the BritishThe difficult terrain and problems with the supply of grain, forage and water for the Army of the Indus.The item also includes a copy of the ‘News letter’ 12 April 1839, conveying intelligence on affairs in Lahore, Peshawur [Peshawar], Scinde [Sindh], Candahar, Khelat, Herat, Ava, the Army of the Indus, Nipal [Nepal], and Bushire [Būshehr] (ff 137-142).Physical description: The papers are not in chronological order.
15. Vol 29, 30, 32, 33: Letters Inward
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume consists of correspondence addressed to the Resident in the Persian Gulf in 1823. Initially, Captain John Macleod fills the role of Resident, but he is replaced following his death by Lieutenant-Colonel Ephraim Gerrish Stannus towards the end of the year. This file is made up of correspondence selected from four separate volumes and bound together in chronological order; it is far from a complete set.The content of the correspondence relates to British political relations in the Persian Gulf; more specifically, relations with Oman and Persia, along with matters related to the enforcement of the General Treaty with the Arab Tribes of the Persian Gulf of 1820. It also concerns itself with the restoration of the Banī Bū ‘Alī tribe to their native territory, from which they were removed by a British Expedition against them in 1821.Physical description: Foliation: The foliation sequence commences at the title page and terminates at the last folio of text (f 53); these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and can be found in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.Pagination: The volume contains original pagination in ink. However, it is inconsistent because the letters have been taken from separate volumes, then later combined in chronological order. The pagination therefore does not reflect the order of the present volume.
16. Colonel Henry Pottinger’s Arrangements in Sinde [Sindh] Regarding the Advance of the Army of the Indus
- Description:
- Abstract: Copies of correspondence, minutes and other documents chiefly relating to logistical and financial arrangements made by Colonel Henry Pottinger, Resident in Sinde [Sindh, also spelled Scinde and Sind in this volume], in connection with the Army of the Indus arriving and marching through Sinde (and Khelat [Kalat]) in advance of the British invasion of Afghanistan.The papers notably cover and include:Arrangements for landing of troops at Kurrachee [Karachi] and stationing at Tattah [Thatta], including costs of building temporary store houses at Kurrachee (f 275)Obtaining treasury funds to finance operations, provision of supplies, means of transport and secret intelligenceAcquisition of camels for the Army of the Indus and their strategic placement along the marching routeArrangements for the Dâks (postal communication service) and salaries for runners (ff 302-303)Relations with the Ameers of Sinde, notably regarding: treaty negotiations; currency values and exchange rates; route of the Bombay [Mumbai] division of the Army of the Indus through their territory; protection of the British troops from attack and robbery; and how they will handle capturing the murderers of Captain Hand of the 2nd Grenadier Regiment on 21 March 1839Dilapidated state of the Fort of Bukkur, on the Indus River (ff 270-272)Pottinger’s communications with and instructions to Brigadier J Valiant, Commanding the Sinde Reserve Force, Kurrachee, and Lieutenant Whitelock, Assistant Resident in Scinde at Tattah.The principal correspondent is Colonel Pottinger. Other notable correspondents are: John Pollard Willoughby, Secretary to the Government, India; and Brigadier Valiant.There is a note before the papers commence stating: ‘Enclosure in Bombay Secret Letter No. 56, dated 8th May 1839, is missing from this collection’.Physical description: The papers are not in chronological order.
17. Letter from Harford Jones to Henry Dundas
- Description:
- Abstract: A copy of a letter from Harford Jones, Resident in Bagdad [Baghdad], to Henry Dundas, Secretary of State for War, sent from Bagdad and dated 17 December 1798.Jones reports a meeting with the Basha [Büyük Sulaymān Pāshā, Governor of Baghdad], who criticises the Porte’s [Government of the Ottoman Empire] alliance with Russia and discusses relations with England.This letter is a decoded copy of IOR/L/PS/9/76/49.Physical description: 1 item (2 folios)
18. Afghanistan and Persia Affairs
- Description:
- Abstract: This item comprises copies of enclosures to a despatch from the Government of India Secret Department (Camp at Kurnaul [Karnal]) to the East India Company Secret Committee, Number 11 of 1838, dated 22 May 1838. The enclosures are dated 18 January-22 May 1838.The item comprises despatches between: William Hay Macnaghten, Secretary to the Government of India; Captain Claude Martine Wade, Political Agent at Loodhiana [Ludhiana]; and Captain Alexander Burnes, on a mission to Cabool [Kabul, also spelled this way and Kabool in this item] and later ‘in Political employ on the North West frontier’.The despatches concern: British policy towards and relations with the ruling parties in Cabool and Candahar [Kandahar, also spelled this way in this volume] and with the Sikh Ruler Maharaja Runjeet Singh [Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Ruler of the Sikh Empire, also spelled Maharajah and Maha Raja in this item], notably with regard to Peshawur [Peshawar, also spelled this way in the item]; the decision of the rulers of Cabool and Candahar to ally with Persia [Iran] and Russia; and the Government of India’s consequent development of its future policy in Afghanistan.The papers cover the following matters in detail:The unsuccessful conclusion of Burnes’s negotiations with the Ameer of Cabool, Dost Mahomed Khan [Dūst Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy] and the events leading up to his decision to leave Cabool (ff 416-417, ff 419-423, ff 441-456, ff 525-531, and ff 540-542), including: the arrival of Sirdar [sardar, leader or ruler] Mehar Dil Khan [Sirdār Mīr Dil Khān, also spelled Mirh and Merh in this item] in Cabool during the presence of the Russian Agent Vitkievitsch [Jan Prosper Witkiewicz]; Dost Mahomed’s refusal of British mediation over his dispute with Runjeet Singh; the intention of the Cabool and Candahar Rulers to join with Persia and Russia, send a deputation to the Shah of Persia at his camp outside Herat, and encourage the ‘downfall’ of that city; copies of Burnes’s correspondence with Dost Mahomed before his departure (ff 451-455) and copies of solicitous letters purportedly written by Mehar Dil Khan and Dost Mahomed to the Shah (ff 540-541); the apparent opposition of Nawab Jubber Khan [Nawwāb Jabbār Khān, also spelled Jabar and Jabbar in this item] to (his brother) Dost Mahomed’s actions and his regret at Burnes’s departure; Burnes’s departure from Cabool and instructions to Captain Robert Leech to leave Candahar and advance to Shikarpoor [Shikarpur] and to Charles Masson to leave Cabool for Peshawur; Wade’s speculation on possible courses of action to take if Herat falls and the Afghan rulers renew hostilities against Runjeet Singh; and the reaction of Runjeet Singh to the news of Burnes leaving Cabool and the prospective Cabool-Candahar deputation to HeratReports from Lieutenant Eldred Pottinger describing his communications with the Vizier [prime minister] of Herat, Yar Mahomed Khan [Yār Muḥammad Khān ‘Alī Kūzāy], and forwarding to Burnes letters from Prince Kamran [Shāhzādah Kāmrān Durrānī, Ruler of Herat] and Yar Mahomed containing urgent requests for British assistance (notably money) to repel the Persian Army (ff 426-433)The deputation of Macnaghten on a mission to Lahore to meet with Maharaja Runjeet Singh, including: a Minute by the Governor-General of India, regarding past policy in Afghanistan, the failure of negotiations with Dost Mahomed, the policy to be adopted in future in Afghanistan, the course to pursue if Persia is successful against Herat, and instructions to Macnaghten to enter openly and unreservedly into discussions with Runjeet Singh; and additional instructions to Macnaghten by Torrens. In these documents (ff 464-482) Macnaghten is directed to reassure Runjeet Singh of Britain’s desire to secure peace and to promote ‘commerce and the blessings of civilization’ (f 474), and to propose an expedition headed by former Afghan Ruler Shah Shooja ool Moolk [Shujā‘ al-Mulk Durrānī], with both British and Sikh support, ‘to recover his throne’ (f 467) but to leave Shah Kamran ‘unmolested’ in the possession of Herat and its dependencies (f 484)Burnes’s report of the successful termination of the visit to Koondooz [Kunduz] by Dr Percival Lord and Lieutenant John Wood, noting the improvement of Britain’s relations with Meer Moorad Beg [Mīr Murād Beg, also referred to as Mahomed Moorad Beg], Ruler of Koondooz, increased trade prospects, and the presence of a Russian emissary at Bulkh (ff 435-439)Two reports by Burnes relating to trade and commerce west of the frontiers of British possessions in India and the prospects of introducing and extending British involvement in that sphere, entitled ‘Establishment of an Entrepot [entrepôt] or Fair for the Indus Trade’ and ‘Prospects of trade in Toorkistan in reference to the contemplated establishment of an annual fair on the banks of the Indus drawn up at Koondooz by Mr Lord’ (ff 485-524).Physical description: 1 item (139 folios)
19. Aden Affairs
- Description:
- Abstract: This item comprises copies of enclosures to a despatch from the Government of Bombay [Mumbai] Secret Department to the Secret Committee, Number 28 of 1844, dated 30 March 1844. The enclosures are dated 22 January-30 March 1844.The enclosures chiefly comprise correspondence between: Captain Stafford Bettesworth Haines, Political Agent in Aden; John Pollard Willoughby, Chief Secretary to the Government, Bombay; the Government of India; and Captain Sir Robert Oliver RN, Superintendent of the Indian Navy. (There are also some minutes confirming the transfer of certain documents to the Marine Department).The following subjects are covered:The general state of affairs at Aden, including the growth of trade and efforts to make the Sultan of Lahidge [Lahej, also spelled Lahedge in this item] swear an oath of alliance to the British Government in return for a monthly salaryThe death of the Imaum of Sana [Imam of Sana'a] on 8 January 1844 and the disputed succession to the chiefshipOperations to rescue the crew of the late steamer Memnonwhich was ship-wrecked near Ras Assyr [Cape Guardafui], including: the use of the HC (Honourable Company’s) schooner of war Constanceto transport rescued crew and supplies respectively to and from Aden; arrangements for monetary and other gifts to be distributed by the Assistant Agent, Lieutenant Charles J Cruttenden, to local chiefs who assisted the stranded crew and protected the ship and the camp valuables for five months between September 1843 and January 1844; and arrangements to pay the last month’s salary of the crew brought back to AdenThe Political Agent’s arrangements with Bombay and the Superintendent of the Indian Navy for sending the HC brig of war Tigrisand the Constanceback to the Bombay Presidency once they have fulfilled certain duties as their tenure in the Persian Gulf and Red Sea has been exceeded, and the Superintendent’s intention to send the HC brig Euphratesto the Red Sea stationAuthorisation by the Government of India for the publication of Lieutenant Willmott Christopher’s journal of his proceedings whilst employed on the north east coast of Africa, commanding the Tigris, in the Proceedings of the Bombay branch of the Royal Geographical Society, including a letter from Willoughby to George Buist LLD, Secretary to the Geographical Society of Bombay (f 565)Notice by the Military Department to the Superintendent of the Indian Navy of plans to despatch the 47th Regiment Madras Native Infantry to Aden to relieve the 10th and 16th Regiments of Bombay Native Infantry currently at Aden.Physical description: The enclosure numbers 3-17 are written on the verso of the last folio of each enclosure, which also contain an abstract of the contents of the enclosure.
20. File 3086/1915 Pt 5 'Arabia: Red Sea – Trade during German War'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume comprises telegrams, despatches, correspondence, memoranda, and notes relating to the blockade of trade in the Red Sea during the First World War.The discussion in the volume relates to:Export of grain to Eritrea: removal of limit on Sudanese exportsRestriction on navigators of Italian sambuks between Aden and SomalilandRed Sea blockade: trade in oil with Jeizan (Idrisi fort)Export of hides from HejazColonel Wilson instructed to support French request for exemption from prohibitionRed Sea blockade: further representations from the Italian GovernmentItalian allegations as to contraband traffic with JiboutiThe blockade: Italian complaints of restrictions on dhow trafficCorrespondence with Italian Consul at AdenStatus of the Hejaz: question of declaring it to be territory in friendly occupation under Trading with Enemy (Occupied Territory) Proclamation 1915Resumption of trade with the HejazGovernment of India concur in proposed authorisationRepresentation of Messrs Whitworth of Manchester, regarding the restriction of exports from Aden to the Red SeaThe southern patrol: inadequate supervision over French and Italian dhows. The Foreign Office address the French Government but prefer not to raise question with Italy. The Resident at Aden suggests representatives to French and Italian governments.Trade with Jibuti and the question of whether restrictions should be imposed at Aden.The volume includes a divider which gives the subject number, the year the subject file was opened, the subject heading, and a list of correspondence references contained in that part by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the inside front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 477; 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; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled.
21. File 3086/1915 Pt 6-7 'ARABIA: RED SEA ISLANDS – AFFAIRS 1915-19'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains two parts: IOR/L/PS/10/562/1 and IOR/L/PS/10/562/2.IOR/L/PS/10/562/1 consists of correspondence relating to the political and military situation on the Red Sea littoral in the period 1915-18. The correspondence discusses the Treaty with the Idrisi Saiyid, reported overtures of the Zeranik shaikhs to Italy and British policy in the Yemen, specifically the proposal to raise an Arab Levy Corps at Aden.IOR/L/PS/10/562/2 concerns a possible Italian occupation of the Farsan Islands [Farasan Islands] and a supplementary treaty with the Idrisi Saiyid [Sayyid Muḥammad bin ‘Alī al-Idrīsī] in connection with the Farsan Islands.Each part includes a divider which gives the subject and part numbers, the year the subject file was opened, the subject heading, and a list of correspondence references contained in that part by year. This is placed in the back of the correspondence.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the inside front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 313; 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 between ff 76-113, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
22. File 2006/1917 'ARABIA: ARAB CONFEDERACY'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume comprises correspondence, telegrams, summaries, reports, notes and other papers concerning the support given by Britain to the tribes of South Arabia [present-day Yemen] in 1917, chiefly in relation to Britain’s principal wartime aim of ousting the Turks [Ottoman Empire] from the region and securing the Aden Protectorate.The papers notably cover:British relations with Saiyid Muhammad bin Ali bin Muhammad bin Ahmed bin Idris, the Idrisi [Sayyid Muhammad ibn ‘Alī al-Idrīsī, ruler of the Idrisid Emirate of Asir], including the 1915 agreement with the Idrisi in return for his attacking the Turks; financial assistance (subsidy) for arms, ammunition, hirelings and transport; the Idrisi’s recruitment of Hashid wa Bakil (also spelled Bakill and Bekil in this volume) and British doubts about the loyalty of these ‘mercenary’ (f 259) tribesmen; British concerns over the Idrisi’s effectiveness against the Turks and his predominating enmity towards Imam Yahia bin Mohamed Hamid-ud-Din of Yemen [Yaḥyá Muḥammad Ḥamīd al-Dīn, also referred to as 'Imam Yahya' in this volume]British policy towards the 'Arab Confederacy' of tribes formed around May 1917 (also referred to as the 'Yemen Confederacy' in this volume), including concerns over its potential effectiveness and lack of concrete victories against the Turks; and meetings with various Arab tribal chiefs explaining their intentions or applying for assistance from BritainBritish relations with the ‘neutral’ Imam Yahya, including a concurrently open-door and non-committal policy; avoidance of decisions or actions that could cause the Imam to stop ‘sitting on the fence’ and ally with the Turks; the Imam’s approach to the British in July 1917 offering support in exchange for territory, the removal of the Idrisi, and a position as sole leader in Yemen (the British politely declined the offer)Division of opinion between the Political Resident in Aden, and the First Assistant Resident in Aden and Government of India, regarding the risks in either supporting or not supporting the Arab Confederacy; the viability and true aims of the Confederacy; and whether or not it was likely the Confederacy would to turn to Italy if Britain prolonged delaying assistance.The principal correspondents are: Major-General James Marshall Stewart, Political Resident, Aden; Lieutenant-Colonel Harold Fenton Jacob, First Assistant Resident, Aden; Saiyid Muhammad bin Ali bin Muhammad bin Ahmed bin Idris, the Idrisi [Sayyid Muhammad ibn ‘Alī al-Idrīsī, ruler of the Idrisid Emirate of Asir]; Imam Yahia bin Mohamed Hamid Ud-Din of Yemen [Yaḥyá Muḥammad Ḥamīd al-Dīn] (also referred to in this volume as Saiyid Yehia bin Mohamed Hamid-ad-Din, Al Mutawakil, the Commander of the Faithful, and as Imam Yahia of San’a / Sana’a [Sanaa] and 'Imam Yahya'); senior officials of the Government of India at Simla [Shimla]; Secretaries of State and diplomats of the Foreign Office and the India Office in London; General Sir Reginald Wingate, British High Commissioner in Egypt; Ronald William Graham, Foreign Office diplomat. Also included are translations and summaries of numerous communications from and between various chiefs of Arab tribes in Yemen.The enclosures date from 1917 but some include content (mainly printed documents) dating from 1916.The volume includes a divider which gives the subject number, the year the subject file was opened, the subject heading, and a list of correspondence references by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the first folio with 1 and terminates at the last folio with 295; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. Multiple intermittent additional mixed foliation/pagination sequences are also present. A previous foliation sequence in part of the volume, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out. The foliation sequence does not include the front and back covers, nor does it include the leading and ending flyleaves.
23. File 3086/1915 Pt 8-9 'ARABIA:- ARMS FOR SAYYID IDRISSI'
- Description:
- Abstract: IOR/L/PS/10/563 comprises telegrams, despatches, correspondence, memoranda, and notes relating to the British policy of supporting Idrisi Saiyid [Sayyid Muḥammad bin ‘Alī al-Idrīsī] involving the supply of munitions to assist the Idrisi in conflict with the Ottoman Empire.The volume is composed of two parts, IOR/L/PS/10/563/1 and IOR/L/PS/10/563/2.Each part includes a divider which gives the subject number, the year the subject file was opened, the subject heading, and a list of correspondence references by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the first folio with 1 and terminates at the last folio with 468; 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; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled. A previous foliation sequence between ff 150-255, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out. The foliation sequence does not include the front and back covers, nor does it include the leading and ending flyleaves.
24. File 475/1916 'PERSIA: POLICY - 1916. The proposed Treaty of Alliance'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume comprises telegrams, despatches, correspondence, memoranda, notes and printed papers in 1916 relating to the development of British policy towards Persia as well as the British relationship with Russia vis-à-vis its position and interests in Persia.The discussion in the volume relates to the terms, duration and articles of the Treaty of Alliance developed by 'three-cornered conversations between Teheran, London and Petrograd' as well as the views of the Government of India on the proposed Treaty.The volume includes:A printed copy of the proposed agreement with Persia (ff 260-261).Comments of HBM's Minister for Teheran (Sir Charles Murray Marling) on Persian proposals and details of the Russian counter-draft (ff 236-238).A draftt in French (ff 213-214) of the proposed treaty.A note (ff 161-165) on 'Persian Expenditure: the "half and half" arrangement' on the division of costs in Persia between HM Government and the Government of India.A telegram dated 31 August 1916 (f 81) listing the members of the Cabinet of the Prime Minister to the Shah of Persia Yossugh od Dowleh [Mushir-ed-Dowleh].A printed paper (ff 43-44) from the Minister to Tehran to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Viscount Edward Grey) detailing a history of Sipasalar's A'zam's administration.Further discussion surrounds the associated negotiations of issues including: the abrogation of the Treaty of Turcomanshai [Turkmenchay] in which Russia dictated terms to end the Russo-Persian War (1826-1828); cancellation of Persian debt; tenure of land by foreigners; recognition of Persian territorial claims in the Gulf; and Persian concerns over de facto partition.The correspondence also discusses the creation of a Cossack brigade for use by Persia and further potential military assistance to Persia; an Anglo-Russian subsidy to the Persian Government and mechanisms of financial control; the role of the South Persia Military Police in the 'restoration of order' in Fars and Kerman; and the loss by the Persian Government of correspondence relating to the Treaty.The principal correspondents in the volume include: the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Sir Walter Louis Frederick Goltz Langley); the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Sir Edward Grey); HBM Minister at Teheran (Sir Charles Murray Marling); the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf (Lieutenant-Colonel Arthur Prescott Trevor); Permanent Under-Secretary of State, India Office (Sir Thomas William Holderness); HBM Ambassador to Petrograd (Sir George William Buchanan); the Viceroy (Charles Hardinge, 1st Baron Hardinge of Penshurst); and the Prime Minister to the Shah of Persia (Mushir-ed-Dowleh).The file includes a divider which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the inside front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 281; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
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