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1. ‘Negotiations with the Ex-King of Cabool and the Maha Rajah Runjeet Singh’
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosure nos. 2-102 to a despatch from the Secret Department, Government of India, dated 13 August 1838. The enclosures are dated 16 May-11 August 1838.The enclosures consist of copies of correspondence relating to a plan to overthrow Dost Mahomed Khan [Dūst Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy] as Emir of Afghanistan and return former Emir Shah Shuja ool Moolk [Shujā‘ al-Mulk Durrānī, also written as Shah Shooja in the item] to the throne. Topics covered include:Negotiations between Shah Shuja, the Government of India, and Maharajah Runjeet Singh [Ranjit Singh, Maharaja of the Sikh Empire], and proposed amendments to a treaty already negotiated between Shah Shuja and Runjeet Singh to include the co-operation of the Government of India. Draft copies of the amended treaty are included on folios 501-505 and 518-523Runjeet Singh’s refusal to give up Peshawer [Peshawar] or Shikarpoor [Shikarpur], his rejection of any British interference in ‘his affairs across the Indus’, and a proposed annual tribute to be paid to him by Shah Shuja in exchange for abandoning his claim to Julalabad [Jalalabad]Reports of the state of Dost Mahomed’s relationships with Russia and Persia [Iran]Failed negotiations to end the Persian siege of Herat, including an offer made to Yar Mahomed Khan [Yār Muḥammad Khān ‘Alī Kūzāy, Vizier of Herat] by the Shah of Persia for territory in Persia if he will give up the cityA British mission led by William Hay Macnaghten to Runjeet Singh’s summer capital at Adina Nagur [Dinanagar, also written as Adeenanuggur in the item], including accounts of meetings with Runjeet Singh and biographies of members of his courtThe continuance of Macnaghten’s mission to Loodiana [Ludhiana] to present Shah Shuja with the proposed amendments negotiated with Runjeet Singh, and his approval of themThe recovery from Toorkestan [Afghan Turkestan] of the books and papers (listed on ff 449-450) of explorer William Moorcroft, who died there of a fever in 1825, and their proposed donation to the Asiatic Society of BengalA report on the affairs of Candahar [Kandahar], including its history, biographies of prominent figures, and its relations with other states, particularly in relation to the Persian siege of HeratPlans for the logistics of restoring Shah Shuja to the throne of Afghanistan, including potential routes for him to enter the country, consideration of the possible actions of Dost Mahomed and how to counter them, his perceived level of support in the country, and specific British battalions and officers to be appointedA British mission led by Lieutenant Frederick Mackeson to recruit the Nuwab of Buhawulpore [Nawwāb of Bahawalpur] as an ally, and to gain permission to move troops through his territory. A draft treaty with the Nuwub is included on folios 648-649Consideration of the security of India if large numbers of troops are sent to Afghanistan, particularly relating to potential hostilities with Ava [Burma or Myanmar], including the possible transfer of troops from Ceylon [Sri Lanka].The primary correspondents are: Shah Shuja; Runjeet Singh; Macnaghten; Mackeson; Captain Alexander Burnes, on a mission to Cabool [Kabul]; the Commander-in-Chief, India; the Governor of Ceylon; the Government of India; and various Indian Army officers.Physical description: 1 item (396 folios)
2. 'Contemplated operations to the Westward of the Indus'
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosures no. 2-113 to dispatch no. 23 from the Secret Department, Bombay Castle, dated 24 September 1838. The enclosures are dated 3 July-24 September 1838.The enclosures consist of copies of correspondence relating to preparations for the East India Company’s invasion of Afghanistan in order to depose Dost Mohamed [Dost Mohammad Khan] as Emir and replace him with former Emir Shah Shuja ul Mulk [Shah Shujah Durrani, also referred to as Shah Shooja ool Moolk and other variants]. Topics covered include:The arrival of Colonel Claude Martin Wade to serve as Political Agent, Loodianah [Ludhiana], and accounts of his meetings with Shah Shuja and members of his courtNegotiations for a treaty between Shah Shuja and Runjeet Singh [Ranjit Singh], Maharajah of the Sikh EmpireAttempts to recruit other adherents to Shah Shuja’s cause, including the Emir of Bokhara [Bukhara], the Chief of Koondooz [Kunduz] and the Khan of Kelat [Kalat]Shah Shuja's professed inability to pay for the raising of his own troops and request for further British aidReports of arrangements made by Dost Mohamed to prepare for the invasion, including a prohibition of communications between his subjects and Shah Shuja or the BritishAppointments of British officers to serve in Shah Shuja’s forcePractical arrangements relating to transport, equipment, stores and the suitability of roads and passes on the planned invasion routeArrangements for a meeting between the Maharajah and George Eden, Baron Auckland, Governor-General of IndiaA mission to Peshawur [Peshawar] by Lieutenant Frederick Mackeson and a mission to Cabool [Kabul, also written as Caubul] by Captain Alexander Burnes to gain adherents to Shah Shuja’s causeEfforts by Dost Mohamed to gain the support of the Khaibar [Khyber] chiefs and their subsequent actions to cut off or contaminate the water supply for Fort Fattehgurh [Fort Jamrud]Reports of two Russian agents visiting Bokhara, Caubul, Lahore and Calcutta [Kolkata] and examining mountain passes in the Hindoo Koosh [Hindu Kush]Enquiries into the loyalties of the emirs of Sinde [Sindh] and the preparations of a force at Bombay [Mumbai] in case of an uprising there.Folios 179-244 deal with the arrival of Lieutenant Mackeson to serve as Political Agent, Bhawalpur [Bahawalpur, also written as Bahawalpoor], accounts of his meetings with the Nawab Bhawul Khan Bahadur [Bahawal III] and members of his court, and negotiations for a treaty between the Nawab and the Company confirming the Nawab’s support of Shah Shuja.Folios 122-136 and 257-281 deal with various intelligence reports from Afghanistan detailing the activities of Persia [Iran] and the siege of Herat, as well as discussions into the veracity and accuracy of such reports.The primary correspondents are Colonel Wade, Captain Burnes, Lieutenant Mackeson, Shah Shuja, Lord Auckland and William Hay Macnaghten, Secretary to the Government of India.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description (used for referencing) commences at f 3, and terminates at f 379, as it is part of a larger physical volume; 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.
3. 'Enclosures to Secret Letters from India', Vol 58
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains manuscript copies of secret letters, despatches, memoranda, translations of letters, intelligence reports, financial statements and some local newsletters, relating to diplomatic, military and logistical aspects of the British-led invasion of Afghanistan by the so-called Army of the Indus.Packets (individual or groups of documents) are numbered 931-1264, and all annotated ‘No: 18 of 11th July’ (the volume is labelled 'Jul to Jul 1839'). Each document records the date received at the Presidency, Fort William, Simla [Shimla], Secret Department, and Secret and Separate Department, 26 November 1838-21 July 1839, as well as the date of the original document, the correspondent and a summary of the content. Original documents mostly date from January to April 1839 but the volume includes some from November and December 1838 and May 1839. Copy letters end on folio 810. Folios 811-838 contain: ‘List of Packets to the Hon’ble [Honourable] the Secret Committee of the Hon’ble the Court of Directors. Per "Water Witch"’. The list includes dates and correspondents only.The principal correspondents are: William Hay Macnaghten, Envoy and Minister with the Court of Shah Shooja ool-Moolk [Shah Shuja ul-Mulk]; Henry Torrens, Officiating Secretary to the Government in India with the Governor-General; Thomas Herbert Maddock, Officiating Secretary to the Government in India with the Governor-General; Henry Pottinger, Resident in Sinde [Sindh]; A C Gordon, Assistant Surgeon, Political Assistant on Duty in the Bhawalpore Territory [Bahawalpur]; Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Alexander Burnes, Envoy to Kelat (late on a Mission to Cabool [Kabul]); Lieutenant-Colonel Frederick Mackeson, British Agent, on a Mission to Bhawalpore; Major-General Sir Willoughby Cotton, Commanding Bengal Column of the Army of the Indus; Eldred Pottinger, British Political agent, Herat; Lieutenant-General John Keane, Commander of the Army of the Indus.Other correspondents include: R Leech, Political Assistant; George Clerk, Political Agent, Umballah [Ambala, North India]; Lieutenant Elliott D’Arcy Todd, Political Assistant and Military Secretary to the Envoy and Minister; Lieutenant William Joseph Eastwick, Officiating Political Agent of Khyrpore [Khairpur] and Assistant to the Resident in Sinde (Henry Pottinger), also referred to as Political Agent in Shikapore, and later, in April 1839, deputed back to Hyderabad to take over from Henry Pottinger, assisted by Ross Bell); Captain H Johnson, Paymaster and Commissariat Officer, Shah Shoojah’s Force; Lieutenant Colonel [I] Stuart, Officiating Secretary to the Government in India, Military Department, with the Governor-General; Major-General E H Simpson, Commanding Shah Shoojah’s Force; Major-General William Casement, Secretary to the Government of India, Military Department, with the Governor-General; and various British diplomatic and administrative officials and military personnel.Matters covered notably include:Supplying the Army of the Indus (Bengal and Bombay Divisions and Shah Shoojah’s Force), particularly: obtaining grain, rice, forage, camels and artillery; recruiting non-military personnel, such as camel drivers; problems encountered by British agents in obtaining supplies, notably A C Gordon’s complaints about Bhawal Khan [Mohammad Bahawal Khan III], Nawab of Bhawalpore, whom he suspects of purposely reneging on treaty promises (contradicted by F Makeson, who considered the Nawab was doing his best despite genuine difficulties)Maintaining cash supplies to finance the expedition, particularly for: purchase of animals and food; payment of salaries; recruitment of suitable soldiers; payment of bribes, for example, to deter desertions; compensation of local famers for loss of animals, crops or infrastructure; purchase of woollen garments for Shah Shoojah’s force; enhancement of the police establishment due to numerous criminal acts committed in Shah Shoojah’s camp. Also covers methods of conveying cash during the advance and arrangements for conveyance of Shah Shoojah’s treasure and bullionProgress of the lines of advance, notably: communications between the two columns of the Army of the Indus; strategies of Keane and Cotton; crossing the river Indus and keeping its navigation open; the dilapidated state of Bukkur Fort; encampment at Shikapore [Shikarpur]; route to the Bolan Pass and Quetta; stationing stores depots and reserve forces along the route; reports of skirmishes, and plundering by Belochee (also spelt Beloochee) [Balochi] tribesmen on the route to Candahar [Kandahar]Relations between Henry Pottinger, Resident in Sinde, and the four Hyderabad ameers (Meer Noor Mahomed Khan, Meer Nusseer Mahomed Khan, Meer Mohamed Khan, and Meer Sobdar Khan), regarding British policy in the state, notably: British suspicions of the ameers’ perfidy and accusations of withholding ‘promised’ camels and grain for the Army of the Indus; Pottinger’s attempts variously to conciliate, chivvy and threaten the ameers; treaty terms issued to the four after the conquest of Kurachee [Karachi] in February 1839; Pottinger’s temporary retirement from Hyderabad in March 1839 due to stress and his quarrel with Alexander Burnes for allegedly undermining himIntelligence and situation reports notably from R Leech and Alexander Burnes on supposedly anti-British, pro-Persian and pro-Russian intrigues in Candahar and Cabool, activities of Russian envoy Captain Vitkievitch [Jan Prosper Witkiewicz] and Afghan Ruler Dost Mohamed Khan; and affairs in Herat and attempts by Eldred Pottinger, Political Agent, to convert and retain the authorities as friends of the BritishBritish policy of conciliation and occupation with a view to securing the route and maintaining lines of communication and supply through Sinde, the Punjab and into Afghanistan, notably: hostile occupation of the strategic Moonarah [Manora] fort and the port of Kurachee by the British and treaty ‘of surrender’ with the local governor, 3 February 1839; British proclamation issued to the chiefs of Candahar and Cabool exhorting submission to the ‘rightful ruler’ Shah Shoojah; arrangements to keep reserve forces in Vikkur, Kurachee, Tatta (also spelt Tattah) [Thatta], Hyderabad, Khyrpore [Khairpur], the river Indus crossing, Bukkur, Shikapore, Quetta, and other strategic locations; attempts to solicit favour of Mehrab Khan [Mir Mehrab Khan Baloch II], the Khan of Kelat [Kalat], particularly to prevent his collusion with British enemies and to reduce attacks by Beloochee tribesmen on the daks [or dawks, mail service], supply chains and camps during the advance to Candahar (including idea to turn them into allies by employing them).Volume also includes Henry Fane’s views on the Western Frontier of British India (explaining where he thinks all points of the compass frontiers should be and why), dated May 1839, folios 757-764.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 841; 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.
4. 'Enclosures to Secret Letters from India, Vol 57'
- Description:
- Abstract: The volume contains copies of secret correspondence relating to the British-led invasion of Afghanistan in 1839. The letters and memoranda cover the period beginning with the landing of the so-called Army of the Indus in Sinde [Sindh, also written as Scinde] in late 1838 to its arrival in Candahar [Kandahar].Principal correspondents include: Henry Whitelock Torrens, Secretary to the Governor-General; William Hay Macnaghten, Envoy and Minister to the Court of Shah Shooja [Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk]; Lieutenant Elliott D'Arcy Todd, in charge of the British Mission to Caboul [Kabul, also written as Cabool]; Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander Burnes, British Envoy to Kelat; Lieutenant-Colonel Frederick Mackeson, Agent at Peshawar; Major-General Willoughby Cotton, Commander of the Bengal Division of the Army of the Indus; Major-General Sir John Keane, Commander in Chief of the Bombay Army; Thomas Herbert Maddock, Officiating Secretary to the Government of India, with the Governor General; and Lieutenant-General Henry Pottinger, Resident at Sinde. Other correspondents include local rulers (including those of Herat, Khyrpoor [Khairpur], and Kelat), British and 'Native' Agents in the region, officers of the Commissariat, representatives of the treasury in Delhi, and several political, military, and diplomatic officers of the East India Company.Matters covered by the papers include:Supply, carriage, and communication, including road surveys and the navigation and bridging of the Indus RiverFinancial matters, including the transferral of funds to pay for supplies and subsidiesAppointment and payment of officersIntelligence on the activities of Russians and hostile individuals and groups in the regionProgress of the armyRelations with the rulers of Sinde, Herat, Khyrpoor, and Bhawalpoor [Bahawalpur].The volume includes a letter to Kamran Shah in transliterated Dari (folios 474-477).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 808; 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.
5. Affairs in the Punjab and the Countries Beyond the Indus, notably Afghanistan and Persia
- Description:
- Abstract: This item comprises copies of enclosures to a despatch from the Government of India Secret Department (Camp at Meerut) to the East India Company Secret Committee, Number 1 of 1838, dated 8 February 1838. The enclosures are dated 18 September 1837-7 February 1838.The primary correspondents are: Captain Claude Martine Wade, Political Agent at Loodeana [Ludhiana, also spelled Loodiana, Lodhiana and other variations in this item]; William Hay Macnaghten, Secretary to the Government of India; and Captain Alexander Burnes, on a Mission to Cabool [Kabul, this spelling and other variations also used in this item].Enclosures 3-120 and 126-128 (ff 49-505 and ff 525-532) comprise despatches between Wade and Macnaghten and between Burnes and Macnaghten. The despatches concern British policy towards and relations with the ruling parties in Afghanistan and with the Sikh Ruler Maharajah Runjeet Singh [Maharaja Ranjit Singh, this spelling and variations of ‘Ranjit’ also used in this item]; the latter two’s relations with each other, notably over Peshawar [also spelled Peshwar and Peshawur in this item]; Afghan relations with Persia [Iran] and Russia; and other political, economic and military affairs in Afghanistan and the Punjab. Burnes’s despatches are forwarded to Macnaghten by Wade and often include Wade’s critical remarks on Burnes’s situation assessments and actions, in addition to Wade’s own political analyses. The correspondence takes place amid a rumoured then an actual Persian expedition to conquer Herat.The papers cover the following matters in detail:British relations with Maharajah Runjeet Singh, including: the issue of the return of Mazari territory to the Ameers of Sinde [Amīrs of Sindh] by Runjeet Singh; intelligence reports by Wade’s munshi [secretary] (ff 52-56, ff 110-115); correspondence regarding a potential meeting between Runjeet Singh and the Governor-General of India; and reports of Lieutenant Frederick Mackeson on affairs on the Peshawar frontier (ff 265-268, ff 272-274, ff 277-289)Relations of Herat with Persia and British policy regarding them, including: news of the arrival in Tehran of an envoy from Shah Kamran [Shāhzādah Kāmrān Durrānī], Ruler of Herat; and views of Burnes and Wade on the ‘designs’ of Persia on Herat (ff 297-301)British policy towards Dost Mahomed Khan [Dūst Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy], Ruler of Cabool, including: Burnes’s reports from Cabool on his meetings with Dost Mahomed (ff 134-141, ff 360-369); Burnes’s and Wade’s views on the ambitions of Dost Mahomed regarding branches of his family in Candahar [Kandahar; this spelling is also used in this item] and Peshawar, and his relations with Persia and Russia; British encouragement of Dost Mahomed to seek a reconciliation with their ally Runjeet Singh; Burnes’s and Wade’s assessment of the geo-political situation on the western frontier of British dominions in India and the aim of maintaining a balance of power advantageous to Britain between Cabool, Candahar, Herat, Persia, the Punjab and Sinde and which might avert any alliances with Russia (ff 78-82, ff 345-358)Burnes’s activities with regard to Candahar, and Candahar’s relations with Cabool and Persia, including: Burnes’s efforts to prevent Sirdar Kohin Dil Khan [Sirdār Kuhandīl Khān Muḥammadzay] sending his son Mahomed Omar Khan [Muḥammad Umar Khān] with an envoy, to conciliate Persia (ff 235-237); Kohin Dil Khan’s and his chief advisor’s letters to Dost Mahomed expressing obedience to the Ameer of Cabool, fear of Persia and the desire to depose the Ruler of Herat who repeatedly threatens to attack Candahar (ff 379-383); and Burnes’s instructions to Lieutenant Robert Leech, whom he deputes to Candahar with an offer of monetary and military support in the event of Persia conquering Herat (ff 471-477)Dost Mahomed Khan’ s relations with Russia and Persia, and British policy regarding them, including: Burnes’s alarm at the arrival in Cabool of a Russian agent, Captain Waitcawitch [Jan Prosper Witkiewicz] (ff 444-449); Wade’s detailed views on the positions of Persia and Russia in connection with Dost Mahomed and Afghanistan and the policy of discouraging the latter’s ‘ambitions’ (ff 415-421); and Macnaghten’s disapproval of Burnes’s promise of troops and pecuniary aid to the rulers of Candahar in the event of the Russian-supported Persian capture of Herat (ff 451-457)The Persian expedition against Herat, including: news of the defeat of Ghurian [Ghuryan, also spelled Ghoorian in this item] and siege of Herat; and Wade’s suggestion that Lieutenant Eldred Pottinger, detained by the Herat authorities, act as a mediator (albeit without authority from the Government of India), provide intelligence, and ensure that Kamran Shah resists Persia.The following matters and documents are also included:Wade’s response to overtures of friendship made to him by Mir Alam Khan [Mīr ‘Ālim Khān], Ruler of Bajour, and Fatah Khan Panjtari, [Fatḥ Khān, Ruler of Panjtar] (ff 124-125)Disruption to the indigo trade in Cabool caused by differences between the Governor of Mooltan [Multan] and the Ruler of Bhawalpoor (ff 132-133, ff 152-153)A report by Lieutenant Leech, Bombay Engineers, entitled ‘Description of the Khyber Pass and of the Tribes inhabiting it’ (ff 143-150)Praise by Wade and Burnes of intelligence provided by Charles Masson in Cabool (ff 180-183)Burnes’s emphasis on conciliating the Lohani [a Pashtun tribe] ‘chiefs’, described by Wade as ‘meritorious merchants’ (f 184)Burnes’s report on the ‘commercial views and prospects of Russia in Central Asia’ (f 203), notably Russia’s relations with the rulers of Bokhara, Khiva [also referred to as ‘Orgunge’] and Kokan (ff 199-207)Burnes’s deputation of Dr Percival Lord and Lieutenant John Wood to Meer Moorad Beg [Mīr Murād Beg] Uzbeck ruler of Koondooz [Uzbek ruler of Kunduz], to treat the eye ailment of Moorad Beg’s brother (ff 251-263), and Macnaghten’s approbation for Burnes’s improvement of British relations with Koondooz.Enclosures 121-125 (ff 506-524) comprise despatches between Lieutenant-Colonel Henry Pottinger, Agent to the Governor-General for Sinde, and Macnaghten, notably regarding the apparent procrastination of the Ameers of Sinde over the establishment of a British Resident in their territory. Also covered is the progress made by Lieutenant Thomas Greer Carless in his survey of the Indus and Kurachee [Karachi] Harbour.Physical description: 1 item (505 folios)
6. Affairs in the Persian Gulf and in Sindh
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosures nos. 2-71 to a dispatch from the Secret Department, Bombay [Mumbai] Castle, dated 31 January 1840. The enclosures are dated 9 October 1839-27 January 1840. The enclosures consist of copies of correspondence relating to affairs in the Persian Gulf and in Sinde [Sindh]. Folios 286-353 are primarily concerned with preparations for the Euphrates Expedition, including the arrival at Karack [Kharg] of the East India Company ship Uraniacarrying three iron steamers for use by the Expedition, the assessment that it has too big a draught to dock at Bussora [Basra], and its re-routing to Kuwait to be lightened. Folios 356-401 are primarily concerned with the levels and placement of armed forces in Sinde, particularly preparations to abandon the military base at Tatta [Thatta] due to sickness there and the possible refurbishment as a convalescent depot of the Fort of Munhora [Manora], Kurachee [Karachi]. Other topics covered include: directions for travelling from Kurachee to Sehwan; arrangements for a Political Agent in Cutch [Kutch] after the resignation of Colonel Henry Pottinger as Resident; money owed by the Ameers of Hyderabad to Shah Shooja ool Moolk [Shah Shuja Durrani, Emir of Afghanistan]; and movements of the so-called ‘Army of the Indus’. The primary correspondents are: the Assistant Resident in the Persian Gulf; the Board of Control; Lieutenant Henry Blosse Lynch, leader of the Euphrates Expedition, and other officers of the Expedition; the Government of India; the Superintendent of the Indian Navy; Major General Willshire of the Army of the Indus; and the Political Resident, Sinde. Folios 432-456 contain newsletters sent out by the Officiating Secretary to the Government of India, consisting of summaries of reports from British officials and military officers in various parts of South Asia and the Middle East. Each newsletter is divided into a selection of the following headings, most of which refer to the place a report was sent from: Ava [Inwa]; Bameean [Bamyan]; Bokhara [Bukhara]; Cabool [Kabul]; Dera Ismael Khan [Dera Ismail Khan]; Herat; Joudhpore [Jodhpur]; Kelat [Kalat]; Khoolum [Kholm]; Lahore; Moultan [Multan]; Nipal [Nepal]; Persia [Iran]; Peshawur [Peshawar]; Upper Scinde [Sindh] and/or Lower Scinde; and Items of General Intelligence. Most of the reports are concerned with the aftermath of the First Anglo-Afghan War, the rule of the restored Emir Shah Shooja, and attempts to locate the deposed Emir Dost Mahomed [Dost Mohammad Khan].Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description (used for referencing) commences at f 277, and terminates at f 457, as it is part of a larger physical volume; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
7. Affairs in the Persian Gulf, Sinde and Bombay
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosures nos. 6-57 and 59 to a dispatch from the Secret Department, Bombay [Mumbai] Castle, dated 29 February 1840. The enclosures are dated 11 November 1839-28 February 1840. The enclosures consist of copies of correspondence relating to affairs in the Persian Gulf, Sinde [Sindh] and Bombay. Folios 636-704 and 712-717 are primarily concerned with preparations for the Euphrates Expedition, including: the journey from Karack [Kharg] to Graine [Jazirat Qurayn, Kuwait] of the East India Company ship Uraniacarrying three iron steamers for use by the Expedition, to be lightened; a fire on board the Urania; the journey of the Uraniaup the Euphrates as far as Marghul [Al Maqal, Basra, also spelled Margeil in the file]; and a request for a vessel from the Gulf Squadron to be assigned to protect the steamers during their construction. Folios 705-711 are primarily concerned with arrangements for the surveillance and potential detention of Hyder Khan, son of Dost Mahomed [Dost Mohammad Khan, former Emir of Afghanistan], upon his arrival in Bombay. Folios 718-731 are primarily concerned with a comparison between the health of troops at Kurrachee [Karachi, also spelled Kuratchee in the file] and at Tatta [Thatta], and the abandonment of the latter as a military base because of sickness there. Folios 732-753 are primarily concerned with the arrival in Bombay of Petros, an Armenian priest appointed on a mission to Cabool [Kabul] by Catchatoor Aratoon [Khachatur Arathon], Patriarch of Julfa. The primary correspondents are: the Assistant Resident in the Persian Gulf; Lieutenant Henry Blosse Lynch, leader of the Euphrates Expedition, and other officers of the Expedition; the Government of India; the Superintendent of the Indian Navy; and the Political Resident, Sinde. Folios 758-762 contain a newsletter sent out by the Officiating Secretary to the Government of India, consisting of summaries of reports from British officials and military officers in various parts of South Asia and the Middle East. The newsletter is divided into the following headings, most of which refer to the place a report was sent from: Ava [Inwa]; Bokhara [Bukhara]; Cabool [Kabul]; Herat; Jyepore [Jaipur]; Khiva; Lahore; Peshawur [Peshawar]; and Items of General Intelligence. The report from Cabool includes an examination of the natural resources of Afghanistan, particularly copper.Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description (used for referencing) commences at f 624, and terminates at f 791, as it is part of a larger physical volume; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
8. Affairs in Sinde, Lahore and Afghanistan
- Description:
- Abstract: This item comprises copies of enclosures to a despatch from the Government of India Secret Department (Fort William) to the East India Company Secret Committee, Number 4 of 1838, dated 21 February 1838. The enclosures are dated 7 August-25 November 1837.The primary correspondents are: Lieutenant-Colonel Henry Pottinger, Agent to the Governor-General for Sinde [Sindh]; William Hay Macnaghten, Secretary to the Government of India; Captain Claude Martine Wade, Political Agent at Loodeana [Ludhiana, also spelled Loodiana, Lodhiana and other variations in this item]; and Captain Alexander Burnes, on a Mission to Cabool [Kabul, this spelling also used in the item and other variations].Enclosures 3-23 (ff 544-615) comprise despatches between Pottinger and Macnaghten. The despatches concern: British relations with the Ameers [Amīrs] of Sinde and negotiations for the establishment of a British Residency at Hyderabad [also spelled Hydrabad in this item]; relations and disputes between the Ameers of Sinde; relations between the Ameers of Sinde and the Government of Lahore [also spelled Lahor in this item]; and general political and military affairs in Sinde.The papers notably cover:British threats to neither exert influence over Sikh Ruler Maharajah Runjeet [Maharaja Ranjit] Singh for the restoration of the Mazari [also spelled Muzaree in this item] districts to the Ameers nor to discourage the former from attacking Sinde, in response to the Ameers ‘procrastination’ regarding a British Residency in their capitalThe suspension of the Native Agent in Hyderabad for over-reaching his remit in negotiations with the Ameers regarding the Residency, and the appointment of his replacementThe return of Sindhian envoys from negotiations at the court of Runjeet Singh at Lahore, and Wade’s opinion that the Maharajah will not insist on the pecuniary conditions he has apparently imposed for the return of Mazari territory to the Ameers and for the withdrawal of the Sikh garrison at Rajan [Rajanpur or Rojhan?]Enclosures 24-59 (ff 616-766) comprise despatches between Wade and Macnaghten and between Burnes and Macnaghten. The despatches concern British policy towards and relations with the ruling parties in Afghanistan and with Maharajah Runjeet Singh; the latter two’s relations with each other notably over Peshawar [also spelled Peshawur in this item]; Afghan relations with Persia [Iran] and Russia; and general political, economic and military affairs in Afghanistan and the Punjab. Burnes’s despatches are forwarded to Macnaghten by Wade and often include Wade’s disparaging remarks on Burnes’s situation assessments and actions, in addition to his own political analyses.The papers notably cover and include:Intelligence regarding the political situation in Cabool, Kandahar [also spelled Candahar in this item] and Herat, forwarded by Charles Masson from Afghanistan (ff 617-619, ff 622-623, ff 640-642, ff 646-650)Information concerning Kambar Ali Khan [Qanbar ʿAlī Khān, also spelled Kumbar in this item], the Persian envoy sent to KandaharThe despatch by Dost Mahomed Khan [Dūst Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy] of an envoy to the Ruler of Kunduz regarding a potential alliance (ff 621-624)Burnes’s arrival at Peshawar and conclusion that Runjeet Singh would privately like to return the territory to the governorship of Sooltan Mahomed Khan [Sulṭān Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy], as it is a drain on his Government’s finances (f 632)Burnes’s arrival at Khaibar [Khyber, this spelling also used in this item], and meetings with Kour Kurruck Singh [Kaur Kharak Singh, also spelled Kour Kharak Singh in this item], during which he emphasises the commercial intentions of the British MissionWade’s refutation of Burnes’s assertion that it would be easy to open the road through the Khaibar Pass and develop commerce between Punjab and Afghanistan (ff 687-691)Burnes’s report on the ‘Political Power of the Sikhs Westward of the Indus’ (ff 708-715) with Wade’s observations thereon (ff 693-698), and notes by Wade on the history and military career of Runjeet Singh (ff 693-705)Burnes’s reception in Cabool, conversations with Dost Mahomed, and opinion of the latter’s aggrandizement ambitions at the expense of his ‘brothers’ in Peshawar (f 750)Concerns expressed by Wade and the Government of India that Britain should not overtly mediate between the Sikhs and Afghans regarding control of Peshawar, and that Burnes: does not appear to act on behalf of Dost Mahomed, which could antagonise Britain’s ally Runjeet Singh and the Kandahar Sirdars [Sirdārs, leaders]; encourages Dost Mahomed to reconcile with his brother Sooltan Mahomed Khan and with the Maharajah; and emphasises that Britain will not intervene until Dost Mahomed relinquishes all connection with PersiaBurnes’s reports on the relations of the Kandahar sirdars with Persia and the Russian minister at Tehran, including the possibility of Kohin Dil Khan [Kuhandīl Khān Muḥammadzay] sending his son with an envoy to Persia (ff 717-726)British policy of averting the extension of Persian and Russian influence over Afghanistan, maintaining the divided distribution of power in Afghanistan, and prioritizing British relations with the Sikh and Sindhian rulersBurnes report that Shah Kamran [Shāhzādah Kāmrān Durrānī], Ruler of Herat, has acknowledged allegiance to Persia and sent an envoy to Tehran (f 744)Wade’s concern regarding Runjeet Singh’s apparent growing infirmity of mind and ‘misgovernment’ (ff 674-675)The favourable reception at Lahore of a Nepalese Mission (ff 666-669)A rebellion in Kashmir (ff 670-672)A dispute between the rulers of Bhawalpoor [Bahawalpur, also spelled Bahawalpoor in this item] and Mooltan [Multan], causing disruption to the indigo trade in Cabool.Physical description: 1 item (233 folios)
9. Military and Naval Personnel
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosure nos. 2-15 to a despatch from the Secret Department, Government of Bombay [Mumbai], dated 1 October 1844. The enclosures are dated 16 July-27 September 1844.The enclosures consist of copies of correspondence relating to the pay, deployment and appointment of military and naval personnel in British India, the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf, including:A decision that the detachment that protected Hyderabad during the Battle of Dubba [also known as the Battle of Dubbo or the Battle of Hyderabad] on 24 March 1843 should be eligible for the same six-months’ worth of batta [allowance or expenses] granted to detachments actively involved in the battleThe arrival at Trincomalee of Commodore Henry Ducie Chads to take command of ‘the Squadron in the Indian Seas’A recommendation that artillery serving on the steam vessels on the Euphrates and Tigris rivers should be withdrawnThe appointment of a new Superintendent of Canals and Forests in Sinde [Sindh].The primary correspondents are: Commodore Chads; the Governor of Sinde; the Native Agent, Muscat; the Naval Commander-in-Chief, East Indies; the Superintendent of the Indian Navy; the Quartermaster-General, Bombay; and the Government of India.Physical description: 1 item (29 folios)
10. Sindh, Punjab, and Afghanistan Affairs
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosures to Despatch to the Secret Committee No. 22, dated 27 December 1837.The enclosures relate to the affairs of Sinde [Sindh], Lahore (the Punjab), and Afghanistan, and are dated 3 June to 25 September 1837.The main correspondents are Lieutenant-Colonel Henry Pottinger, Agent to the Governor General for the Affairs of Sindh; Captain Claude Martine Wade, Political Agent, Loodiana [Ludhiana]; and the Political Secretary to the Government of India (William Hay Macnaghten).The papers cover: correspondence from Captain Alexander Burnes, on a Commercial Mission to Cabool (Kabul); intelligence from Lahore; correspondence concerning the need for a British Resident in Hyderabad; reports on the conflict between the Sikhs and Afghans over Peshawar; overtures by the Amir of Kabul (Dost Mohomed Khan [Dost Muhammad Khan]) to the King of Persia [Iran] for assistance against the Sikhs; reports by Wade on the attitude of Maharajah Runjeet Singh [Ranjit Singh]; reports by Charles Masson on the political situation in Afghanistan; reports by the Native Agent, Hyderabad; correspondence concerning the diplomatic mission of General Jean-Baptiste Ventura to the King of France on behalf of Ranjit Singh; itemised tables showing merchandise exported from Ludhiana, with comparative prices realised, and further information on trade in the region (folios 568-573); and correspondence between the Government of India, John McNeill (HBM's Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of Persia), and Burnes, acknowledging receipt of despatches concerning Persia and Afghanistan (the despatches themselves are not included).Physical description: There is an abstract of contents of the despatch, numbered 1-110, on folios 367-378. These numbers are repeated for reference on the last verso of each enclosure.
11. Affairs in Persia
- Description:
- Abstract: Enclosures no. 2-5 to a despatch from the Secret Department, Governmentof Bombay, dated 24 August 1844. The enclosures are dated 6 March-26 June 1844.The enclosures consist of copies of correspondence relating to affairs in Persia [Iran], including:Inhabitants of Karrack [Kharg] seeking asylum in Koweit [Kuwait], and a demand by the Governor of Fars for the removal of the British Coal Agent from KarrackThe departure from Tehran of Persian Agents to Bokhara [Emirate of Bukhara] and Khiva, in return for diplomatic missions previously sent to Tehran from those countriesThe expulsion from Persia of two French clergymen accused of proselytisingBorder negotiations at Erzeroom [Erzurum] between Persia and the Ottoman Empire, and a joint Anglo-Russian request for both governments to send agents to the frontier to ‘restrain the border Chiefs from committing the usual predatory incursions’Preparations in Kurachee [Karachi] by Agha Khan Mahlatee [Āghā Khān I], exiled former Governor of Kerman, to lead an assault on Kerman, and a demand from the Government of Persia that the British authorities in Sinde [Sindh] either arrest or exile himReports of an alliance between Dost Mahomed Khan [Dūst Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy], Emir of Afghanistan, and Yar Mahomed Khan [Yār Muḥammad Khān ‘Alī Kūzāy], Vizier of HeratAn account (ff 64-67) by Hajee Mahomed Ali [Ḥājjī Muḥammad ‘Alī], a grandson of the late Shah of Persia Kerreem Khan Zend [Karīm Khān Zand], of an Ottoman attack on Kerbala [Karbala] in which his wife and two eldest children were killed and his two younger children 'carried away [as] captives’ to Damascus, and British attempts to secure their releaseA journey to Bokhara by German missionary Dr Joseph Wolff, and his reports confirming the executions there in July 1842 of Colonel Charles Stoddart and Captain Arthur Conolly.The primary correspondent is HM Chargé d’Affaires, Tehran. Other correspondents include: the Prime Minister of Persia; the Foreign Minister of Persia; the Russian Minister in Tehran; Agha Khan Mahlatee; Dr Wolff; and the Emir of Bokhara.Physical description: 1 item (114 folios)
12. A Precis of Official Intelligence on the Affairs of Affghanistan, Sinde and Beloochistan
- Description:
- Abstract: This part of the volume consists of a copy of an enclosure to a despatch from the Government of Bombay Secret Department to the Secret Committee, No. 97 of 1842, and contains material relating to the following:The boundary dispute between Meer Ali Moorad Khan [Mīr ‘Alī Murād Khān Tālpūr] and Meer Nusseer Khan [Mīr Nāṣir Khān Tālpūr] of Khyrpore [Khairpur]The desire of Maharaja Sher Singh to be informed of the position of British troopsThe determination of Mahomed Suddeeg Atchukzee [Muḥammad Sādiq Khān Achakza‘ī] to oppose the encroachment of British troopsThe hesitation of Mir Sher Mahomed [Mīr Shīr Muḥammad Khān Tālpūr] of Meerpore [Mirpur] in rendering tribute to the BritishThe affliction of Meer Nusseer Khan of Khyrpore with cholera and his recoveryThe attempt by Meer Roostum Khan [Mīr Rustam ‘Alī Khān Tālpūr] to dissuade Meer Ali Moorad Khan from going to war against Meer Nusseer KhanThe capture of Syed Mahomed Shureef [Sayyid Muḥammad Sharīf] by Major James OutramThe death of Mir Sher Mahomed Khan at KhyrporeThe preparations by Deen Mahomed Murree [Dīn Muḥammad Marrī] to attack the Khettrans [Khetrans]The British approach to Meer Meer Mahomed [Mīr Mīr Muḥammad Khān Tālpūr] to act as arbitrator between his brothers, and the expressions of support from Meer Nusseer Khan and Mir Hoossein Ali Khan [Mīr Ḥusayn ‘Alī Khān Tālpūr]The Khan of Kelat’s [Kalat] orders to Esah Khan the Mengul Sirdar [Sardār ‘Īsá Khān Mangal] to proceed in the direction of Nooshkie [Nushki] and Shoorawack [Shorabak], to ‘raise’ the Brahooee [Barāhu‘ī] Tribe and take them back to KelatThe execution of Gholam Mahomed Khan [Ghulām Muḥammad Khān], Moollah Rusheed [Mullā Rashīd], Naib Ameen [Nā’ib Amīn], Naib Shureef [Nā’ib Sharīf], and Meerza Mahomed Hussain [Mīrzā Muḥammad Ḥusayn] on the orders of Mahomed Ukhbar [Muḥammad Akbar Khān Bārakzāy] at Cabool [Kabul], for conspiring with Mahomed Zuman Khan [Nawwāb Muḥammad Zamān Khān Bārakzāy] to kill the Afghan King [Dūst Muḥammad Khān Bārakzāy]The dispute between Meer Nusseer Khan and his nephew Meer Hoossein Ali Khan, and the latter’s determination to leave the fort at HyderabadThe news of British troops being driven out of Kandahar, and Meer Nusseer Khan’s contacts with the Ameers [Amīrs] of Upper Sinde [Sindh] to form an ‘anti-British league’A request from the Law Commissioner of India to the surgeon James Burnes to hand over any papers belonging to his late brother Sir Alexander BurnesA request from the Government of Bombay for information on the ‘quality of the rain which has fallen’ in Sinde, whether the ‘country is reported to be healthy’, and the ‘state of the Indus as far as relates to facility of navigation in this season’.The volume also includes a ‘Rough Sketch Shewing the Valley of the Yajhi Forts and the Eastern Ridge’, signed by Captain J W Robertson, Field Engineer (f 142).Physical description: 1 item (146 folios)