Dr. Dur Muhammad Pathan
CHORONOLOGY OF THE COMMERCIAL & POLITICAL RELATIONS BETWEEN BRITISH AND SINDH(1612-1843)
Feb 1612
Authony Starkey, the first Englisghman to come, arrives at Thatta in the ship “Dragon.” He is carrying important letters and document with him. He lands at Thatta with tow purposes:
(1) to transverse the land route for England,
(2) to find trade opportunities in Sindh. After a few days, he is poisoned by Portugueses there,
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May,1934, P.34]
26th September, 1613
Sir Robert Sherley, the ambassador for Persia, Walter Payton, Sir Thomas Powell and other members of the suite, about the fifteen in number for going to the kingdom of Persia, arrived Diul bander of Sindh.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.40]
December, 1613
Nicholas Withington the British factor reaches near to Thatta and his party is seized by a local chief and rob them of that they possess Withington and his party, however luckily escaped back to surrat with their lives.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.41]
24 November,1615
Sir Thomas Roe writes to the East India Company, that “accordingly to such relations as I have gotten, the River of Syndu(Sindhu) were most commodious of all others, to which from Lahor anything may pass by water, besides the country in more healthy and plentiful in Indigo and comodytyes fit for England.”
[Foster: “The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe,” PP.75-76]
March, 1616
Sir Thomas Roe presents his Treaty of commerce at the Royal Court of Jehangir. The Second Article of his trade facilities in Sindh.
[Foster: “The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe,” Pg.134]
26 April, 1616
Sir Thomas Roe writes to the English factors at Surat, that an attempt should be made to open up trade with Lahore and Sindh.
[Foster: “The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe,” Pp146-148]
1629
Invitation is sent from Sindh, to English factors at Surat, for establishment of an English factory in Sindh country.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.41]
April 1630
English factor of Surat, who insisted for investigating possibilities of establishing factory in Sindh, apply for permission to the East India Company. Two bales of the Sindh Indigo and some sample of white cloth of Sindh are also sent to the East India Company.
[Foster: “The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe,” Pg148]
28 November, 1635
English Ship- the “Discovery” anchores right against the river Indus’ mouth.
23rd February, 1636
William Fremelen and his party leave Thatta and embark for Surat in the Ship “Hopewell”.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.43]
25th August, 1636
John Drake, who obtained “Parwana” from the Royal Court of the Moghul Emperor, sends this “Parwana” to Surat factors, today.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1637-1641” P VII]
3rd December, 1636
William Fermelen and his companions land at Lahri Bunder, at midnight. His team consists of John Spiller and Richard Moyle. After five days, this explaination left for Thatta.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.43]
10th December, 1636
William Fremelean’s party renches Thatta. This may kindly be noted that they remained at Thatta for nearly two months and a half and investigated in the commercial possibilities of Sindh.
16th March, 1638
The East India Company writes to their Surat factors that a factory in Sindh should be established and cherished.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1637-1641” P VII Pg.57]
June 1640
John Spiller is sent to Sindh as the chief factor. He visited sindh in 1633 as an Assistant to William Fermelen. John Spiller remains in Sindh upto 1642.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1637-1641” P VII Pg.53]
1643
Dara Shikoh, Shah Jehan’s eldest son, grants several “nishans” to the East India Company to facilitate English trade in Sindh.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1642-1645” P X]
April, 1644
The establishment of the Englishmen for trade purpose is created and John Spiller, Danial Elder and Revett Walwyn are employed on salaries of the 138-6-8 Pound , 70 Pound and 18 pound per annum respectively. From May to September 1644 John Spiller toured in upper Sindh.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1642-1645” P X, Pg.132]
1650
It is reported that Surat Factory servants in Sindh are being hindered by the obstructions, set by the native officials, at two places-Kandiaro and Nasarpur Richard Davidge placed this matter before Moghul Emperor and succeeded in obtaining a “Farman” ordering the governors not to interrupt the free course of trade.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1642-1645” P X, Pg.132]
March, 1652
Prior to this, only two Western nations, were competing for trade in Sindh, the Porteguese and the English, but now Dutch nation also starts trading in Sindh Pietor Bie is granted permission to establish factory.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.45]
24th April, 1656
English factors writes to the East India Company, informing that Moghul Governors of Thatta~Jaffar Khan retiring governor is putting traders to great inconvienience by seizing all their boats. The wife of new Governor-Kabad Khan is taking away goods and not paying even half of the price for them.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1655-1660” Pp. 58-78]
5th June, 1656
Souvenir – East India Company’s chief factor reports that “there is mad kind of government at present in Thatta. Governor-Kabad Khan’s masterful spouse is at liberty to ruin traders and commercial community.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.46]
1658
The East India Company sends a band of five Englishmen, namely Messrs Nicholas Souvenir,William Bell, Humphrey Fox, Thomas Atkins and John Widderington to Sindh to be factors there.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1655-1660” Pg. 152]
April, 1660
The East India Company issues orders to its Sindh Agent that cease buying cotton goods, and to buy a stock of saltpeter instead.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1655-1660” Pg. 52]
14th June, 1660
Surat English trading authorities writes to their Thatta factors to be in readiness to depart, on receiving warning or indication from Surat. This may kindly be noted that at that time William Sorivener was the Chief factor in Sindh, assisted by Messrs William Bell, Valentine Nurse and John Cox.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1661-1664” Pg. 27]
27th March, 1662
William Bell is the chief factor in Sindh. He is directed by the East India Company that if a steady supply of saltpetre and calicoes at reasonable prices were not procured, the Sindh factory would be withdrawn.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1661-1664” Pg. 72]
14th November,1662
The Services of William Bell, the Chief factor in Sindh are withdrawn on corruption grounds with the departure of William Bell and other factors, the English factory in Sindh stood withdrawn.
[Foster: “The English Factories in India, 1661-1664” Pg. 72]
1699
Captain Alexander Hamilton visited Thatta, and stayed for three months. He was made free of all customs duties and tax on goods that he had brought or should export from Sindh. He had brought with himself goods worth 10,000 pounds with intention of trading with the people of Sindh. Mughal Nawab allowed him the privilege of “ Imprisoning those people who failed to pay him for the goods brought from him, without goind to the Kazi for justice.”
[A. B. Advani’s article “The Early British Traders in Sind”, published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society,” Karachi, Vol-I Part-I, May, 1934, P.48]
8th May, 1748
Edward Cooke, private merchant breaths his last. He was learned in many languages including Sindhi.
[Cousens: “Antiquities of Sindh,” P. 123]
2nd March, 1800
Nathan Crow lands at Karachi and proceeds immediately to Hyderabad, where he is greeted in a friendly manner by Fatehali. The four ambers, despite their desire for British military support, at first suspects the Company of interest in conquest rather than commerce, but Crow assures them that he desires only “the removal of discord” and the increase trade and wealth the factory would bring to Sind. [Page/2“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
7th May, 1800
Nathan Crow writes to Duncan to inform him that he has assured Sindh that establishment of Factory will pave Way for increase trade and wealth of Sindh. [Page/2 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
10th August, 1800
Meer Muhammad Ismail, on behalf of Rulers of Hyderabad, Sindh, informs Nathan Crow that the Company would probably allow a Hindn agent there in factory. [Page/3 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
12th August, 1800
On behalf of Meer Fateh Ali Khan, Agha Abdul Hussain writes to Nathan Crow informing him that Meer is under pressure and has no any option expect to ask Crow to close the factory. [Page/3 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
12th August, 1800
Meer Fateh Ali writes to Nathan Crow directing him that all importal would have to come through kukrala. [Page/3 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
28th October, 1800
Fatehali orderes Crow to remove him and all the Company’s establishments from Sind immediately. The agent had no choice but to comply, and, factories and the setting of accounts, the East India Company lost Rs. 110,000 on the venture. [Page/4“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
19th November, 1800
Jonathan Duncan while writing to Wellesley suggests that all Indian ports be closed to sindian ports and merchandise currently in Indian port be seized as compensation for Crow’s expulsion a resultant financial loss. [Page/4 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
6th January, 1805
Abdul Hussain Bohanee in his letter to the East India Company writes that Sind was afraid of the Afghan king and wants amicable relations with the British. [“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
17th January, 1808
W.H.Smith (Bushire) write to Edmonstone, Secretary to the central Government that negotiations has been originated with Sindh Agents to draw up a treaty with the Shah of Persia under terms of which the Persians were to aid the Sindians against the Afghans in return for aims cooperation with the design of Persian king upon kandhar. [Page/6“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
2nd March, 1808
The British authorities orders the Governor-General of India to take measures to prevent a hostile army from crossing the India and cultivate to the utmost of power the favorable opinion and cooperation not on of all states and countries the eastward of the India but also of the Afghanistan Government even of the Tartar tribes to the Eastward of the Caspian. [“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
14th March, 1808
Lord Minto, Government General of India dispatches from N.H. smith at Bushire telling us of the visit of the Sindh vakeels to Persia and the French overtures to Sindh have convinced the Government of expediency of reopening relations with Sindh. [Page/6 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
30th April, 1808
Captain David Seton leaves Bombay accompanied by his chief Aide lieutenant Gridley an assistant Surgeon, and an affair in charge of sixty ranks of native infantry for Hyderabad to gain the confidence of the Ameers in order to promote the Company’s aims of setting a factory. [“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
18th May, 1808
Seton arrived at Mandavi in Cutch on May 18, 1808 and remained there for about six weeks. This greatly distressed Duncan, who wanted him to arrive in Hyderabad before the Persian envoy, reached Hyderabad on June 4 and was received with the highest honors. Fateh Ali was reported to have offered Franco-Persian help to Sind in shaking off the shackles of Afghan overlordship in return for the use of Sindian ports and Facilities to supply French ships. [Page/7“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
15th June, 1808
The dilatory Seton finally arrives in Hyderabad on June 15, 1808, and a week later had a conference with Ghulamali who, realizing the Strength of his position, declares that had the English not sent Seton “to cultivate his friendship, he would in despair of gaining their good will have closed with the offer of the French and the Persians.”
[Page/8“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
18th July, 1808
The Sindh Government of Hyderabadi Meers enters into an agreement With Captain David Seton.
[ “The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”, article by A.B.Advani published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society/V.11, Part 111, December, 1936]
24th July, 1808
The Agreement consisting of 7 Articles is drawn up between the Government of Sindh and the East India Company Government. It is agreed that this shall remain forever and that the disaffected of one Government shall not be protected by the other. It is agreed that an Agent on the part of the Honorable Company, for the increase of friendship and goodwill, shall reside at the Court of the Meer of Sindh.
[“The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”, article by A.B.Advani published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society/V.11, Part 111, December, 1936]
8th August 1808
Native intelligent agents report to the East India Company Government about imminence of French foothold in Sindh. [Page/6 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
18th August, 1808
Captain David Seton writes to Duncan to Share with him important clauses of a treaty proposed by the Sindh Rulers: Permitting the British to reopen factories at Thatta and Hyderabad, neither govt should protect the enemies of the other, that the British should provide Meer Ghulam Ali with artillery for the capture of umerkot and British & Sindh divide between them the coastal province of cutch. [Page/8 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
21st August, 1808
Captain David Seton, the ex-British Resident at Museat, Presently on Sindh visit, writes to General Malcolm to update him about Sindh policy. He writes that Meer Fatih Ali Khan have offered France Persian help to Sindh in shaking off the shaking of Afghan over lordship in return for the use of Sindhian ports and facilities to supply French ships. [“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
24th September, 1808
Secret and Political Department Diaries (No.248) of India reveals that Main Abdul Nabi is in aid Jodhpur to seek British aid in regaining his throne. [Page/9 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
10th October, 1808
Minto, Governor-General Plamed to send Nicholas hanky Smith, the British, to Sindh as a representative of the central Government. [Page/9 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
28th November, 1808
Neil B. Edmonstone, then secretary to the Central Government, sent Smith his instructions. He was to place British relations with Sind on the footing originally intended, which would necessitate his coming to an agreement with the Ameers to supersede Seton’s. The British could obviously enter into no agreement with Sind which would include military aid against Afghanistan. . [Page/10“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
22nd December, 1808
Captain David Seton writes to Duncan that he agreed to terms of treaty proposed by Ameer of Sindh, with the exception of those referring to umarkot and cutch and has also dropped all company claims for reparations against Sindh with aim to reestablish relations with Russian, French and Persian influence at also costs. [Page/8 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
14th March, 1809
East India company decides that relations should not be resumed (With Sindh) until the claim of Nathan Crow about compensation is settled.
[Page/5 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
27th April, 1809
To re-establish the proper relative rank of the British and Sindhian governments, the Mission under the leadership of Mr. Nicholas Hankey Smith leaves Bombay. This Mission consists of seven members namely N.H.Smith of the Bombay Civil Service as the Envoy, Henry Ellis of the Bengal Civil Service as the first Assistant, Lieutenant Robert Taylor of the Bombay Native Infantry and Lieutenant Henry Pottinger as the second and third assistants, Captain Charles Christie to command the escort, William Hall surgeon and Captain William Maxfield of the Bombay Marine to act as marine-surveyor.
[A. B. Advani’s article “ The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”. Published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society, V.11, Part 111, December, 1936. P.10]
9th May, 1809
The Mission headed by Mr. Nicholas Hankey Smith reaches Karachi and is received by the Governor of Karachi on next day. The head of the Mission has received pointed instructions from his Governor-General to repress any attempts on the part of the Meer to claim equality with the British Government and to claim from Sindh rulers the respect due to the British power in India.
[A. B. Advani’s article “The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”. Published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society, V.11, Part 111, December, 1936. P.11]
10th June-1809
The East India Company Government mission on way to Hyderabad, reaches at Thatta and takes up their quarter in the East India Company’s factory. This may kindly be noted that the Mission reached Karachi 9th May 1809, and leaving Karachi after stay of 1 month. A lot of material is available about activities of in this Mission in Karachi. The Governor of the Karachi did his level best to keep eye on the activities of these foreigner he also gave him tough time.
[A. B. Advani’s article “ The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”. Published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society, V.11, Part 111, December, 1936. P.11]
15th August, 1809
The Mission reaches at Hyderabad. This may kindly be noted that the mission spent more than 1 month in Thatta and remained busy in getting their required information on political situation and geography of Sindh.The Mission got free hand and opportunity to study the surrounding area and for proceeding to Hyderabad, Mission was divided into two parties, one to travel by water and other by land-route, and both the parties avail opportunity to obtain information and data on land and water routes of Sindh.
[A. B. Advani’s article “ The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”. Published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society, V.11, Part 111, December, 1936.]
22nd August, 1809
The treaty was signed in August, 1809, and its ratification assuaged British fears in regard to a possible French foothold on the subcontinent. The realization that Napoleon, enmeshed in dynastic intrigues and unable to extricate himself from the Iberian Peninsula, posed no further threat to India soon returned the affairs of Sind to their original obscurity. [Page/12“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
Sindh Government deputes three official namely Wali Mohamad Khan, Akhund Baqa Khan, Mushtak Ram discuss the proposed treaty with Mr. Smith and his team and following treaty is concluded:
Article 1:
There shall be eternal friendship, between the British Government, namely Meer Gholam Ali, Meer Karam Ali and Meer Murad Ali.
Article 2:
Enmity shall never appear between the two States.
Article 3:
The mutual dispatch of the Vakeels of both Governments, namely the British Government and Sindhian Government, shall always continue.
Article 4:
The Government of Sindh will not allow the establishment of the tribe of French In Sind.
[A. B. Advani’s article “ The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”. Published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society, V.11, Part 111, December, 1936. P.11]
4th September, 1809
Political Department Diaries (No 3 to 10) of India reveals that the Maratha leader, Juswant Rao Holkar of Indore, was trying his level best to insist Sind to join him in alliance with French. [Page/12 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
1st October, 1809
Nicholas Hankey Smith writes to Edmonstone informing him that in his meetings and deliberations with Sindh Ameers has formed opinion that the Ameers were not very cordial and of course objected to the abrogation of Seton’s treaty. [Page/11 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
9th November, 1809
A mission consisting of Captain Sadlier, Mr. W. Simon, Dr. Hall and Major Wood House
Discuss and conclude the Treaty with Meer Karam Ali Khan and Meer Moorad Ali Khan. The Treaty consists of four articles and it is signed by Ismail Shah on behalf of the Meer Government of Hyderabad.
[A. B. Advani’s article “ The English Missions of 1808, 1809 & 1820 to Sindh”. Published in the Journal of Sindh Historical Society, V.11, Part 111, December, 1936. P.14]
1826
Ranjit Singh demandes the payment of tribute from the Ameers of Sind on the grounds of having inherited most of the disintegrated Afghan empire and hence a right to the tribute formerly paid by the Ameers to Kabul. [Page/33 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
20th November 1831
Letter No. 256 from Political Superintendent, Cutch to Government of Bombay relating to the pursuit after free-booters (Soda Jagatsing of Nagar Parkar and Soda Poonjaji of Vera- veer) by Sindian troops under Nawab Ghulam Shah Laghari, Chief of Saimkote. (Year, 1832 …Department, Political …File No, 300 Page (22-24)//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
20th March, 1831
Henry Potting, the British agent in Cutch, reported to Bombay that the Ameers, prompted by British threats to reopen the matter of the Khosa depredations, and a military demonstration on their border by Ranjit Singh’s general, Ventura, had agreed to let the mission pass. (IOR, Bengal Secret Letters)
October, 1831
Pottenger received his instructions from the Governor-General in October, 1831. He was to negotiate only with Murad Ali of Hyderabad and Rustam Khan of Khyrpore, and he should use the implied threat of Ranjit Singh on their northern border and the continued depredations of the Khosas as a means of achieving his ends if the Ameers were recalcitrant. He might also cite Vattel’s law under which straits could not be closed by the controlling power, although this would entail the necessity of defining the Indus as a strait between the sea and the British possessions in the Northwest, a rather strained usage at best. . [Page/23“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
24th November 1831
Letter from Captain Sir C. Malcolm, Superintendent of Navy, to Earl of Clare, President and Governor in Council, informing him as to the time the Sind Mission, under Colonel Pottenger would take to reach Mandvi ; letter from Mr. C. Morris, Chief Secretary to Government of Bombay to Captain Sir C. Malcolm in reply to the above letter; letter No. 1789, dated 28th November 1831, from Government of Bombay to Envoy in Sind informing him that an advance of Rs.15,000 had been made in his favour on account of the mission to Sind; (Year, 1832 Department. Political… File No, 300 Page (1-3) &) (Year 1832 Department Political… 300 Page (5)//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter from Governor in Council to His Highness Nawab Bahawalkhan, Daood Potra, Chief of Bahawalpur, making a Present of certain valuable articles to him for showing kind attentions and hospitality to Lieutenant Burns while on his journey to Lahore; (Year, 1832 …Department, Political …File No, 300 Page (9-10)//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
December 1831
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger forwarding him a copy of a letter written under order of Governor-General to Political Assistant at Ludhiana, and of one to the address of Maharajah Ranjeetsing, Ruler of Lahore, relating to Colonel Potenger’s Mission to the courts of Ameers in Sind in connection with improvement of means of intercourse between His Highness’s territories and those of British Government by the route of Indus; (Year, 1832 …Department, Political …File No, 300 Page (47-54) )//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
9th January 1832
Letter No. 43, dated 9th January 1832, from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger acknowledging receipt of his Progress report relating to the mission to the Ameers of Sind and sanctioning grant of Presents to the Agent of His Highness Meer Murad Ali Khan of Sind; (Year, 1832 … Department, Political … File No, 300 (71-72))//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
12th January 1832
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger approving of the emissary of Meer Naseer Khan and of the course proposed to be followed in continuing his journey to Hyderabad ;( Year, 1832 … Department, Political … File No, 300 (73-83)//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th January 1832
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing how he was received by the ‘Mahenandaes’ of Meer Murad Ali Khan, that his baggage was detained at the mouth of Indus and that he remonstrated with the ‘Mahemandars’ of Meer Alimurad Khan against the unfriendly act on the part of the Meer; (Year, 1832 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (26-35))//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
21st January 1832
Letter No. 2, from Government of Bombay directing Colonel Pottenger to act in accordance with sentiments expressed in extract paragraphs 5 to 8 of the dispatch from the Governor-General. (Year, 1832 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (87-89)//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th January 1832
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger stating that the accounts of the Sind Mission will ultimately be passed by Supreme Government, but as the Bombay Government were connected with the Mission it would be convenient that they should pass in the first instance through that Government;(Year, 1832 … Department, Political … File No, 300(93-94) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th January 1832
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger acknowledging receipt of his letter of 8th idem and expressing-
(i) His Lordship’s approval of the instructions issued to Dr. Del Hoste to avail himself of the opportunities afforded by the Mission to extend acquaintance with the Geography of Sind;
(ii) Enjoining great caution to avoid incurring any imputation of converting the Mission into an expedition for the purpose of exploring the routes and military resources of the country.(Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(95-96) &)
(iii) Letter No. 40, dated 21st January 1832, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India stating that Syed Zainuddin discussed with him the claims of several rival candidates to the musnud of Sind Government after to the death of Meer Muradali Khan; (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (41-51) &)
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger acknowledging receipt of a letter and it translation from Meer Murad Ali Khan expressing His Highness’s friendly wishes and intentions towards His Lordship;(Year, 1832 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (41-51) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st January 1832
Letter No. 43, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting the following proceedings with the Government of Sind with effect from the date of his arrival in Sind :-
(a) Suspicions raised in the mind of Meer Muradali owing to the deputation of Colonel Pottenger to Khyrpore and obstruction put by the Ameer in the Colonel Pottenger’s design to proceed to Khyrpore;
(b) Reception of Colonel Pottenger and his associates by Meer Muradali Khan;
(c) Interview of Colonel Pottenger with the Ameer.
Draft treaty consisting of nine articles-Discussions of-with Munshi Khushiram. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (52-103) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd February, 1832
Pottenger submitted to Murad Ali his draft of the proposed treaty, which essentially provided for the opening of the Indus to the merchants and traders of India.But before the conclusion of the treaty with Hyderabad Pottinger proceeded to Khyrpore to draw up a treaty with Meer Rustam Khan, although Murad Ali claimed that Khyrpore was subordinate to Hyderabad and hence covered by any treaty signed by him. [Page/23“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
3rd February 1832 and 5th February 1832
Letters No. 46 and 46-B of, respectively, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing that Meer Muradali had permitted him to proceed to Khyrpore had permitted him to proceed to Khyrpore and that before leaving Hyderabad he had sent an outline of treaty to Meer Muradali to calm his suspicions and asking for further instructions;( Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (147-175) (178-190) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th February 1832
Letter No. 53, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing:-
(a) That Meer Muradali accepted the Presents sent by His Lordship;
(b) That he had another interview with Meer Muradali Khan;
That owing to certain disturbances at Khyrpore his departure had been postponed to that place at the expressed desire of the Meer; (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (190-215) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th February 1832
Letter, from Government of India in reply to Colonel Pottenger’s letter No. 38, dated 21st January 1832, expressing approval of his conduct in the intercourse he had with Mehmandars; (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(117-118) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th February 1832
Letter, from Government of India in reply to Colonel Pottenger’s letter No. 40, dated 21st January 1832, approving of the manner in which he discussed the question of succession and the caution maintained by him, and giving future instructions in connection with the matter; Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (119-120) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd February 1832
Letter No. 57, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting the following further proceedings at the Court of Meer Muradali:-
(I) Message from Meer Muradali Khan desiring Colonel Pottenger to quit Hyderabad at once and proceed to Khyrpore;
(2) Memorandum from Colonel Potenger to Meer Muradali stating that he was ready to act agreeably to his advice and that he was waiting for reply from Meer Rustomkhan;
(3) Deputation of Ahmedkhan and Bakshali to accompany Colonel Pottenger and his party to Khyrpore;
(4) March of Kharaksing to Dera Gazikhan and preparations made by Ameers of Hyderabad to meet him on the Sind Frontier;
(5) Message from Meer Muradalikhan desiring Colonel Pottenger to return to Cutch if such a contingency arose and informing that he would write a letter to His Highness Governor-General explaining him the reason for dismissing the Mission;
(6) Memorandum from Colonel Potenger to the Meer making some suggestions for establishing certain degree of political influence, without which no treaty would be found effectual.
(7) Letter from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Murad Ali Khan informing that he had decided to send one of the gentlemen of his suite (Dr. Delhoste) to Khyrpore ;unfriendly attitude adopted by the officers and difficulties thrown in the way of Colonel Pottenger’s access to Khyrpore by the Meer and Colonel Pottenger’s protest. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(249-290) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th February 1832, and 2nd March 1832
Letters, from Dr. Delhoste, attached to the Mission to Colonel Pottenger, relating to his reception at the Khyrpore Durbar. ; (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(167-181)//”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter, dated from February 1832, from Government of India forwarding, for information, to Colonel Pottenger copies of-
(I) A letter from Maharajah Ranjeetsing respecting the navigation of the River Indus and by him in explanation;
(2) A letter from Maharajah Ranjistsing in reply;
(3) Letter from Government of India in reply to the above. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301 (201-207) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
February 1832 and 31st January 1832
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger acknowledging receipt of Colonel Pottenger’s letter of approving of his conduct in the difficult and troublesome discussions with Ruler of Hyderabad and his officers;(Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(161-163) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter No. 56 of Colonel Pottenger appointing Dr. Delhoste to proceed to Khyrpore and giving him instructions for guidance. ;( Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(249-290) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th March 1832
Letter, from Government of India (I) approving, with certain modifications of the draft treaty negotiated with Meer Muradali and giving further instructions; (2) forwarding a letter to the address of Meer Muradali Khan, assuring His Highness that British Government had no desire to covet his possessions (i.e. Shikarpur) and that integrity of Sind dominions will ever be respected. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(209-211) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th March 1832
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger, conveying His Excellency the Governor General’s approbation of the prudent and conciliatory course of proceedings which he (Colonel-Pottenger) adhered throughout the course of his negotiations and furnishing further instructions. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(213-218) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th March 1832
Letter No.59, from Acting Resident at Bhooj forwarding copies of correspondence relating to complaint of one Sador Rahbaree of Palanpur against an outrage committed by certain Khosas of Islamkote and (2) of a letter to the address of Ameers of Sind for redress of grievances. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(268-270) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
March 1832
Letter No. 71 from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger reporting depredations committed by the Free-booter Pittoojee Waghela and requesting that it should be brought to the notice of the Ameers, if so desired. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(188) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th April, 1832,
The treaty, signed on April 4, 1832, provided for continuing friendly relations between Khyrpore and the British. The merchants of Hindustan were granted use of the river and roads of Khyrpore on whatever terms might be settled with “the Government of Hyderabad, namely Meer Murad Ali Khan Talpoor” and the Government of Khyrpore promised to provide the British with a statement of just and reasonable tolls to be levied and not to hinder the traders in any way. (IOR, Bengal Secret Letters)
Toward the end of June Bentinck retuned the ratified treatise with Khyrpore and Hyderabad to Pottenger, who now, in addition to his duties as residend in Cutch, was to have charge of Sind affairs. [Page/26“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
Nonetheless the agreement of Rangit Singh and Bahawal Khan open the Indus to commerce. Write the conclusion of the treaties an experimental cargo was sent up the river, and in 1833 a group of merchants sailed boats down the Indus from Ludhiana to Shikapur; but results were disappointing. [Page/26“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
6th April 1832
Letter No. 69, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing-
(I) That negotiation with Khyrpore State has taken a turn which would appear equally inexplicable and unexpected to His Lordship.
(2) That several alterations were suggested in the treaty by the officers of Khaipur State, which in his opinion, were absolutely useless and that he informed the Vazir that he would take care to bring to the notice of Governor-General that such useless stuff had not proceeded from him;
That he had a further interview with Meer Rustomkhan on 5th April 1832 but he had to return to his tents without being able to discover the cause of the visit having proved abortive. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(349-385) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
14th April 1832
Letter No, 71, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting-
(I) That Meer Rustomkhan suggested certain modifications to be made in the treaty which he refused point blank and at his request he omitted paragraph 5 of the treaty altogether;
(2) That he had a last interview with Meer Rustom khan, Mubarak Khan and Alimurad Khan when the treaty was exchanged between the parties; Meer Rustomkhan thereafter dismissed the Mission in kindest manner possible.
(3) Meer Rustomkhan sent to Colonel Pottenger certain presents worth Rs. 1,000 in all;
(4) Visit of sons of Meer Rustomkhan and Mubarak Khan to Colonel Pottenger as a token of respect for him;
(5) His departure from Khyrpore on 11th April 1832;
(6) Pointing out certain inconsistencies displayed by Meer Rustomkhan, his relations and ministers and at the same time assuring that the Meer was really disposed to form close alliance with British Government but he was restrained by his brother and Meer Muradali Khan of whom he could not be said to be independent;
(7) That the question relating to succession to supreme authority at Khyrpore on demise of Meer Rustomkhan was unsettled as that of Hyderabad;
(8) That Meer Alimurad Khan made certain overtures in an underhand way and he desired to enter into a separate treaty, granting favorable terms, which he refused. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(406-443) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th April 1832
Letter No. 68, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding them a copy of a letter, dated 28th March 1832, from Lethal, Native Agent at Hyderabad, relating to-
(I) Plundering of Larkana Purgunnah by the Thanedat of Mehrabkhan Brohee and deportation of Ahmedkhan son of Nawab Wali Mohomed for committing reprisals;
(2) Interview of Captain Wade with Maharajah Ranjeetsing for permission to open a factory at Mithankot. Meer Muradali Khan hearing of this desired that if a factory was opened at Mithankote there was no necessity of opening another in Sind. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(342-349) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd April 1832
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay informing that Meer Muradali Khan of Hyderabad had agreed to hand over British Government some of the chiefs of Parkar and traitor Ismailkhan and requesting that Captain Robert might be directed to proceed to Lukhput to receive the prisoners; letter of 17th May 1832 from Government of Bombay approving of the above proceedings. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(450-452) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd April 1832
Letter from acting Resident regarding plunder of Rahim ka-Bazar in Thar Parkar by Pittoojee Waghela and requesting that the Sind Government be moved to exert them to apprehend the free-booter. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(269-270) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th April 1832
Letter No.64, from Colonel Pottenger to Governor-General of India reporting the arrival of Mission at Khyrpore and their proceedings at the Court of that Ameer as under:-
(I) Letter from Meer Rustomkhan inviting Colonel Potenger to his Court and informing that officers would be dispatched to meet him on the Frontier;
(2) Letter from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Muradalikhan informing him of his departure to Khyrpore and requesting that orders be issued to the boatmen to accompany him; Message Zulfukarkhan to Colonel Pottenger requesting him not to write anything to his Excellency Governor-General that would create displeasure towards him and desiring that Government of India would allow him (Colonel Pottenger) to remain at Cutch as no one would understand the way to preserve and add to friendly feelings between two Governments; reply from Colonel Potenger to the above stating that he was grateful to His Highness’s good opinion about him and that he was sure that Governor-General and Governor of Bombay would replace him in Cutch or place some other capable officer there;
(3) Colonel Pottenger’s present of one hundred Gola (venetians) to Syed Zulfukarkhan; Meer Muradali’s letter to Colonel Pottenger stating that it was contrary to the custom of his Government to receive such gifts; Colonel Pottenger’s suitable reply to the above;
(4) Departure of Colonel Pottenger from Hyderabad on 27th February 1832, and his arrival on 10th March 1832 at Mithiani the first village in Meer Rustomkhan’s territories where he was met by Dewajikhan, Diwan Lakhmichand and others.
(5) Letter from Dr. Delhoste regarding his good reception at Khyrpore, enclosing a letter from the Meer expressing his friendship with British Government and cordially inviting Colonel Pottenger to his court;
(6) Arrival of Colonel Pottenger at Khyrpore on 21st March 1832; Wazir Fatehkhan Ghori met him at the town of kot Laloo and informed him that Meer Rustomkhan was anxious to meet him; hearty welcome accorded and munificient hospitality shown to Colonel Pottenger; 23rd March was fixed for public reception of the Mission; Colonel Pottenger sent a draft treaty to Meer Rustom Khan and requested him to add to or alter it any way he considered necessary; Further interview granted to Colonel Pottenger; draft treaty discussed with Meer Mubarak Khan and the Vazir ; the terms were seffled and copied fair. (Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(297-327) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st May 1832
Letter No. 80, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting:-
(I) Return of mission from Khyrpore and their arrival at Hyderabad on 16th April 1832.
(2) That a memorandum was received from Meer Muradali Khan asking him for information on several points in connection with the Mission at Khyrpore and his reply there to;
(3) That had an interview with His Highness Meer Muradali and other Ameers and the former spoken about the treaty which he (Colonel Pottenger) promised to send to him on the next day; the terms of the treaty were discussed with Munshi Khushiram who took a copy of it to Meer Muradali;
(4) That on evening of 20th Meer Bakar and Diwan Baharmal brought a statement of customs and other duties livable on goods and vessels passing up the Indus which were very high; he remonstrated with Diwan and explained to him the position His Lordship the Governor-General would take if His Highness insisted to adopt the above tariff schedule; that in the afternoon of 21st Munshi Khushiram with others returned with the statement of customs schedule and said that Meer Muradali desired that they should be definitely fixed before he (Colonel Potenger) quitted Hyderabad ; the deputation was assured that the question would be fairly considered and discussed by British Government and that the matter would be referred to His Highness Meer Muradali’s final approbation and confirmation;
(5) Final interview with His Highness Meer Muradali on 22nd April when the treaty was given to him. The Ameer introduced Bahadoor Khan Khokhur, the Chief, to whom he proposed to entrust the duty of extirpating the robbers who committed depredations on the requested that speedy arrangements be made with Rajah of Jessulmere for dispatch of army against the plunderers.
(6) Meer Muradali Khan granted permission to the Mission to return to India and sent several presents for Colonel Pottenger.
(7) That a supplementary treaty was signed and handed over to Colonel Pottenger.
(8) Departure of Mission from Hyderabad on 28th April 1832.
(9) Forwarding a copy of the revised treaty with His Highness Meer Muradali of Hyderabad and discussing suitability or otherwise of the proposed rates of custom duties. &c.
2nd May 1832
Letter from Government of India forwarding for information a copy of the report of Captain Wade on the commerce of Punjab. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(452-502) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
7th May 1832
Letter No. 82, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing that Khosas and other Banditti, among who was one Pettajee Waghela, had committed depredations in eastern districts of Sind and had repulsed the detachment sent against them by Meer Alimurad of Meerpur.
Visit of Bahadurkhan Khokhar to Colonel Pottenger and his desire to carry operations against the free-booters during the rains;(Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (518-525) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter No. 83 of 7th idem from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay dispatching the above for transmission to Government of India and requesting for co-operation of Rajahs of Jessulmere in routing with British and Sind Government in routing the Khosas and other murderers. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (526-530) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th May 1832
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger acknowledging receipt of several letters received from him and expressing regret at the sudden turn which negotiations at Khyrpore had taken and trusting that authorities at Khyrpore would not impede the attainments of the principal object of the Mission, &c. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (317-318) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th May 1832
Letter No. 84, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India asking for orders on the disposal of presents and informing that the accounts of the mission would be sent after two months. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (530-536) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
14th May 1832
Letter No. 93, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India transmitting three original treaties concluded by him with the Ameer of Khyrpore and Hyderabad. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (561-563) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th May 1832
Letter No. 87, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that Meer Naseer khan of Meerpur made overtures for a separate treaty on favourable terms but he refused to do anything with him without orders of-General. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (541-546) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th May 1832
Letter No.67, from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger approving of measures suggested for extirpation of Parkar free-booters and arrangements made with the Ameers of Hyderabad for the purpose. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (327-329) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
May 1832
C.E. Trevelyan, a deputy secretary to the Government in Calcutta, drew up a paper on the Indus tariff at the Governor-General’s request. He pointed out that transportation by water was much cheaper than by land and that the duty levied by the Ameers should be on the value of the cargo rather than on weight. Cargo should be taxed only once on the trip, and the proceeds should be divided among Sind, Bahawalpur, Lahore, and British India; while the collection of the toll should be under the superintendence of a British political agency. [Page/26“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
11th june1832
Letter No. 104, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India.
(I) Submitting with his remarks copies and translations of statements of duties furnished by chiefs of Hyderabad and Khyrpore in virtue of treaties concluded with them;
(2) Informing that Duties on goods carried by land were quite high; commerce in Sind was therefore at a standstill and that this fact appeared to have given to the Ameers the smallest concern and that on several occasion His Highness Meer Muradali expressed that he and his family would deeply regret the revival of trade by Indus, whatever fiscal advantages he might reap. This was because it interfered with his shikargahs or preserves for game with which the whole course of Indus from Thatta to Sehwas was lined, &c.
(3) Giving a vivid description of river Indus and bringing to notice the deplorable condition of its banks and suggesting several improvements for its proper navigation;
(4) Drawing attention to the Journal of Royal Asiatic Society of London for 1830-31, Page 227, in which the exports and imports were fully stated;
(5) Stating that at the time of invasion of Nadirshah there were forty thousand weavers of loongis and Calico at Tatta but in 1832 it was not even one-tenth of the size it was in 1809. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (564-575) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th June 1832
Letter from Government of India to Government of Bombay intimating that the Governor-General had full confidence in the discretion of Governor in Council exercised in connection with joint operations contemplated against the freebooters and that Governor-General’s Agent at Ajmere would procure effective co-operation of Jodhpur and Jessulmere Durbars in the action against the plunderers. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (423-424) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th June 1832
Letter No. 108, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay requesting that arrangements might be made for manufacture of 6 sword blades and 6 highly furnished right hand guns, &c, in England for Meer Muradali Khan and suggesting that the cost of these articles be met from public funds; . (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (593-594) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th June, 1832
Bentinck, the Governor-General favors the negotiation of a new treaty with the Ameers which would give the British greater influence in Sind. He wrote: “I could wish that it may be the accomplished without the employment of direct force, but by the effect of other and milder influence.” (IOR, Bengal Secret Letters)
19th June 1832
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger in reply to several of his letters:-
(I) Requesting transmission of ratified treaties, signed and sealed by Governor-General to their respective destinations;
(2) Advising consideration of several details before the proposed Customs Tariff schedule was drawn up and accepted by the Ameers;
(3) Making further enquiries relating to the possessions of Meer Naseerkhan;
(4) Enquiring as to the best place which may be fixed and at which customs dues would be collected;
(5) Discussing the provisions of 4th article of the treaty relating to issue of passports to persons proceeding to Sind for purposes of trade and appointing persons and fixing places where they should be issued;
(6) Approving of line of conduct proposed to be adopted towards Meer Naseerkhan;
(7) Expressing satisfaction on the result of what passed Colonel Potttenger and Ameer of Sind on the subject of combined operations against Khosas and other plunderers and giving further instructions on the matter. . (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (349-359) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd June 1832
Letter No. 110, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay in connection with dispatch of troops under command of Captain Robert for punishment and suppression of Khosa and other marauders. . (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (595-606) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Muradali for making arrangement for dispatch of Sind forces for the purpose and return of Jagatsing and Poonjaji, Parkar chiefs, alleged to have been implicated with the Plunderers.
2nd July 1832
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger forwarding to him copy of a letter from Envoy of Persia on the subject of proposed alliance between a son of Meer Muradalikhan of Hyderabad and a daughter of the king of Persia and other matters connected with affairs of North West Frontier. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (606-612) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th July 1832
Letter No. 126, , from Government of Bombay intimating that a letter had been addressed to Honorable Court for execution of articles required by Meer Muradali; (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (393) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd July 1832
Letter No. 154 from Government of Bombay approving of the suggestions made by Colonel Pottenger with regard to the assemblage of the army for routing out the tree-booters. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (413-414) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th July 1832
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger forwarding to him a copy of their letter to Government other services of Colonel Pottenger and for reasons mentioned therein appointing him as Agent for affairs of Sind; (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (425-432) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st July 1832
Letter No. 159,from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger informing him that Government of India had issued orders to Agent at Ajmere to open a communication with Rajah of Jodhpur for co-operation with British Government against Parkar plunderers and for adopting the measures preventing them from finding an asylum in his territories. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (437-439) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd September 1832
Letter No. 164, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Colonel Litchfield, Commanding Sind Force-
(I) Furnishing him with suggestion to be useful to him in the expedition against the Parkar free booters.
(2) Acquainting him with cause which led to the necessity for the expedition and for co-operation of certain Native powers with the British;
(3) Informing him that the strength of the enemy was estimated at 2000 fighting men and the Khosas, a tribe of Baluchees who composed the majority Rulers of Sind, and they refused every advance made to them by the Talpoors and formed themselves into a nucleolus for the disaffected and turbulent of the circumjacent regions:
(3) That Means, which formed the most infamous body of Parkar robbers lived in wands. Or temporary villages along the Northern edge of Parkar. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (672-702) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st August 1832
Letter No. 162, from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger (I) intimating him of appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Litchfield to the command of the expedition against Parkar and (2) Vesting him (Colonel Pottenger) with general of expedition and the measures consequent on its termination, (3) directing that Lieutenant William Pottenger should accompany the expedition in civil capacity and afford to Lieutenant Colonel Litchfield advantage of his experience and knowledge of Sind Auxiliaries, &c. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (445-449) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th August 1832
Letter No. 120, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a map with a memoir on the Province of Sind prepared by Lieutenant Delhoste and Pottenger; (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (623-624) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter No. 123, dated 7th August. 1832, from Colonel Pottenger to Adjutant-General of the Army, Bombay, making suggestions for assemblage of forces to act against the plunderers. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (625-630) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th August 1832
Letter No. 127 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India:-
(I) Describing the limits of the territory in possession of Meer Muradali of Hyderabad and Meer Rustomkhan of Khyrpore;
(II) Informing that the latter had agreed to his suggestion for levy of duties at one place and that Meer Muradali should be asked to make a similar arrangement in his own country so far the vessports were concerned and that system of farming may be continued with regard to local trade;
(III) That the Bombay army would move across thrive to put down the plunderers of Parkar as soon as he heard from Colonel Lackete about the march of Jodhpur and Jussulmere forces;
That Meer Muradali intimated that his army was awaiting orders from him. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (630-642) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th August 1832
Letter No. 128, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay submitting account of the presents purchased on account of Sind Mission. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (643-645) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th August 1832
Letter No. 140, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay forwarding copies of letters received from Native Agent from Sind to the effect:-
(I) That Meer Muradali desired that he would recover the losses incurred by the people from the Parkar chiefs and that he was prepared to hand them over to Colonel Pottenger on his assurance that they would be kept for two months and they would not be sent to any place from Bhooj:
(2) That news had been received from Hakim of Shikarpur that Kirpalsing with four thousand men joined General Ventura at Dero Gazikhan and that Ameers of Hyderabad sent trustworthy spies to find out the object and direction of their intended movements;
(3) That Meer Muradali and his sons sent presents to Sardar Dost Muhomed of Colonel though Nizamuldin Peerzada. The object of the Mission was to persuade the Sardar to make a demonstration against Sikh territories at any time Raja Ranjeetsing directed his attention towards Shikarpur.
(4) That His Royal Highness Abbas Meerza of Persia arrived at Meshed and Prince Kamran of Heart opened a friendly correspondence with him the object of placing himself under his protection. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (646-651) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter No. 157 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding copies of letters received from:-
(I) Meer Muradali and observing that reports had been received that Meers of Hyderabad and Khyrpore had entered into agreement with Shah Shujaool Mulk, king of Cabool, to help him in recovering his part in event of his success agreed to the Ameers and to acknowledge independence of Sind and to give a final release for payment of tribute; that Meer Muradali had sent Munshi Khushiram to Khyrpore to consult him on the subject and that His Highness Meer Rustomkhan consented to the plan on certain conditions.
(2) That the boxes containing the treaties were received and he delivered those for Meer Muradali in public Durbar, and the other he forwarded to Khyrpore.
(3) That Meer Muradali said that he having consulted his sons Mohomed Bakarshah to Bhooj in charge of the Parkar chiefs;
(4) That some Kassids came from Khyrpore who reported that Meer Alimurad Khan had fled to Bujrika Goth where he had collected a strong garrison and Meer Rustomskhan had sent troops for taking the place. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (655-659) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th August 1832,
Letter No. 127 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India:-
(I) Describing the limits of the territory in possession of Meer Muradali of Hyderabad and Meer Rustomkhan of Khyrpore;
(2) Informing that the latter had agreed to his suggestion for levy of duties at
One place and that it would be desirable that Meer Muradali should be asked to make a similar arrangement in his own country and that system of farming may be continued with regard to local trade;
(3) That the Bombay army would move across the river to put down the plunderers of Parkar as soon as he heard from Colonel Lackete about the march of Jodhpur and Jessulmere forces;
(5) That Meer Muradali intimated that his army was awaiting orders from him. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (630-642) &)
15th September 1832
Letter No. 241, from Government of Bombay on the same subject and signifying the Governor’s concurrence with opinion expressed by Governor-General of his conduct in the Late Sind Mission, &c. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.300 Page No (561-562) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
24th September 1832
Letter No. 189, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a copy of a letter from the Native Agent in Sind reporting:-
That there was a considerable chance of a civil war in Khyrpore State between Alimurad and his two elder brothers;
(2) That the cause of the war was refusal on the part of Meer Rustomkhan and Mubarak khan to restore Meer Alimurad some Purgunnahs which he had given to them; that Meer Muradali Khan of Hyderabad’s effort to reconcile the brothers proved ineffective. (Year 1832-33 Department Political …File No.301 Page No (708-709) &)
September 1832
Pottenger writes a minute in which he expresses the opinion that the Ameers are taxing trade out of existence and that Murad Ali is trying to make the recent treaty a dead letter by means of excessive duties. He thought a toll based on the size of each boat should be levied: [Page/27“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
5th October 1832
Letter, from Meer Muradali of Hyderabad dispatching Parkar prisoners under charge of one Ghulam Hyder Mujranee and requesting that they might be sent back made and him after necessary enquiries had been made and their guilt disproved; Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(719-722) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the
6th October 1832
Letter, from Agent to Governor-General, Rajputana to Colonel Pottenger informing him that Jodhpur and Jessulmere with British Government in capturing the Parkar robbers and to send their forces for the purpose; Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(611-616) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
8th October 1832
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger approving of his instructions to the officer appointed to the command of the force against Khosas and others of Parkar. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(623-624) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th October 1832
Letter No. 215, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay informing that Meer Muradali had sent some petty Blooch Sardars in place of Jagatsing and other Parkar Chiefs. He sent them back as he found them old hopeless men and of the lowest station in life. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(716-719) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th October 1832
Letter No. 242, from Political Superintendent, Palanpore, to James William, Pol. Commr., Guzarat, forwarding a copy of letter addressed by Meer Mohomed Khan Abbas, Chief of Kalhora family to Lieutenant Presscot asking for assistance from British Government in securing Sind (their territory) from the Talpooes. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(643-644) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th October 1832
Letter No. 290, from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger approving of his proposal to appoint Lieutenant Delhoste to examine part of the country, left of river Indus. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(647) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
20th October 1832
Letter No. 237, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Roberts, Commanding Poona Auxiliary Force, informing of his appointment as officer in charge Intelligence Department with Parkar Expeditionary Force; that he had informed Meer Muradali that Government had appointed him to be medium of communications between the Officer Commanding the Forces and Meers Sardars; that he had appointed a Munshi Syed Rahmatullah who with his acquaintance with knowledge of Sindhi and Gujarati will knowledge of Sindhi and Gujarati will prove efficient person; that as Head of the Intelligence Department he was required to perform certain duties as detailed in paragraphs 9-12 of his letter. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(737-746) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th October 1832
Letter No. 234, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Colonel Litchfield, Officer in charge Expedition Force, against Parkar free-booters giving him further assistance for guidance. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 301(733-736) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th October 1832
Letter, from Agent to Governor-General, Rajputana, to Colonel Pottenger informing that communications had been received from certain Chiefs who it appeared were greatly alarmed at the approach of British army expressing their willingness to relinquish their predatory calling if any arranges could be made for their support, &c.
(2) Making certain suggestions to this end. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 300(741-745) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th October, 1833
The Governor-General agrees with the advisability of replacing the duty with a toll but with a toll but cautions pottinger that in conducting negotiations he should give the Ameers every assurance that the internal trade of their own country will not be interfered with. The moment goods are landed at Tatta, Hyderabad or anywhere else in their dominions they will become subject to the local duties levied by the Ameers in their own country. (IOR, Bengal Secret Letters)
October, 1833
Murad Ali dies and is succeeded by his eldest son, Nur Mahomed, as the principal chief of Lower Sind. He firmly refuses to allow the creation of a British Residency in Sind. Pottinger is at a loss about what to do as his instructions forbade him to “demand anything or to use coercion.”[Page/27“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
16th December 1833
Letter, from Native agent at Hyderabad to Colonel Pottenger, Political Resident, Cutch, informing of death of Meer Muradali and stating that Meer Nur Mohomed Khan and Meer Mohomed-khan determined to send presents to Bombay Government, &c.; letter from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Nur Mohomed Khan condoling with him on the death of his father; letter dated March 1834 from Meer Nur Mohomedkhan of Hyderabad to Colonel Pottenger in reply to the above. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302Page No (1-7) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302page No (9-12) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302page No (53) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter from Colonel Pottenger to Munshi Jethanand desiring him to inform the Ameers (Nur Mohomed, Sobdarkhan and Naseerkhan) of his appointment as Agent to Governor-General in Sind and of appointment of Captain Melwill as his Assistant in Sind and his headquarters being fixed at Hyderabad. As that gentleman did not accept the appointment on account of delicate health, he had intended to proceed to Sind requesting that arrangements be made to meet him at Badin. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302page No (31-35) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th August 1834
Letter, from Munshi Jethanand to Colonel Pottenger reporting that he had he had sent a letter and a hundi for Rs. 500 to Bahawalkhan, who expressed thanks to the Governor and said that the Colonel Pottenger should be assured that the friendship between him and British Government would continue from generation to generation; that a cassid had arrived from Cabool who gave an account of the unsuccessful attempt of Dost Mohomad to attack the fort of Candhar; that Ameers of Sind had received letters from the Chiefs of Candhar giving account of their victory and route of the King. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 302page No (43-51) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th August, 1834
Pottinger writes to Macnaghten that the Ameers continued steadfastly to refuse their permission for the creation of the Residency and evinces no enthusiasm about signing any new treaty. Unless we mean to abandon the great Design of opening the Indus to traffic, we must, in the event I am contemplating, change our Requests to Demands and support those demands, by increasing Force in Kutch and blockading the ports of Sinde till everything we wish is fully acceded to. (“IRO, Bengal Secret and Political Consultations”. Sept 5, 1834, No-1.)
18th August 1834
Letter from Native Agent to Colonel Pottenger informing that there was some disagreement between Meer Nur Mohomedkhan and Meer Sobdarkhan on question of division of the State on the demise of late Meer Muradalikhan; that he had reminded Meer Nur Mohomedkhan to return the treaty where in it was provided that a Native of India would be placed in Sind. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302page No (43-51) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
8th January 1835
Letter No. I, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Robert, Assistant Political Agent, Bhooj, directing him to be strictly neutral with regard to the application from Meer Mohomed for assistance of British troops in collecting the tribute from the district of That Parkar, &c; letters Nos. 2 and 3 of even dates from Colonel Pottenger forwarding to Government of India Bombay a copy of the above for information. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (1) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (2) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
9th January 1835
Letter No. 4, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing that news had been received from Native Agent at Hyderabad that His Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk had arrived at Kelat with two hundred retinue and so closely followed by Khoodadad Khan of Candhar that he was obliged to take refuge within the country of Khan of Kelat who acceded to the unfortunate monarch the protection and hospitality he sought for; that the Ameers of Sind hearing that information had taken steps to strengthen the garrison at Shikarpur; that it was clear it was clear that the king would not remain for a long time and he would not remain for a long time and he would proceed to Bombay via Sonmeanee, if the Ameers did not permits him a passage through their territory; in the other case he would pass through Sind to Bhooj and Bombay; requesting that he was anxious to know the terms on which the King was to be received and treated; letter No. 5 of even date from Colonel Pottenger to the above and asking for instruction on the above Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (3-4) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (5) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st January 1835
Letter No.6, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India stating that the Native Agent informed that His Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk had arrived at Bhag in Cutch Gandava and that the son and the nephew of Meer Rustomkhan had arrived at Hyderabad for persuading Meer Nur Mohomedkhan not to allow the Emperor to enter Sind. Meer Nur Mohomed had promised that he would not allow the king to remain anywhere for more than a day and that he would not only grant him a free passage but would treat him with all respect and honour due to him; letter No. 7 of even date forwarding a copy of the above to Government of Bombay. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (6) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (7) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th February 1835
Letter No. 9, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting as under:-
(I) That His Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk had arrived at Larkana on his way to Hyderabad;
(2) That one Mr. Semon who was once in Sindhia’s service has returned from Peshawar and has entered the service of Meer Alimurad of Meerpur;
(3) That Syed Ismail shah and Said Zynooldin were appointed Governors of Larkana and Shikarpur. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (8-10) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th February 1835
Letter No. 10, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding copies of instruction prepared for guidance of Native Agent and desiring that Lieutenant Mackeson should always address the Ameers of Sind through Munshi Jethanand to avoid delays and subterfuges on the part to the Ameers; That he had moved the Government of Bombay to publish the Indus Toll Treaty in Bombay Government Gazette in English, Persian and Gujarati (vide letter No. 12. Of even date); letter No. 14, dated 18th February 1835, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Mackeson forwarding him copies of the above with enclosures for instructions. Year, 1835… Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (10-11) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (21) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th February 1835
Letter No. 17,from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a copy of the letter from the Native Agent reporting as under:-
That Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk arrived at Hyderabad on 14th February and on the following day all the Ameers with relation and children paid their respect to His Majesty who requested Meer Nur Mohomed to permit him to stay at Shikarpur till he could collect a force. Meer Nur Mohomed declined to accede to his request but he agreed to assist him when he returned with his army from Ludhiana. A treaty to that effect was entered into by His Majesty who in return gave Shikarpur as a free gift to the Ameers and abandoned all claim to tribute from the Sind Ameers. Meer Nur Mohomed and other Ameers gave presents, etc. to His Majesty; That Dost Mohomedkhan of Cabool had assumed the title of Ameer and had khutba read in his name and that he was collecting troops to drive Sikhs from Peshawar. Year, 1835, Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (23) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th February 1835
Letter No. 20, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding copies of correspondence between him and Meer Nur Mohomed relating to suppression of Khosas under Paroo Jamadar and other predatory tribes on the border of Cutch and protest of Meer Nur Mohomed against attack of British Commander at balmere. Year, 1835, Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (26-27) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th March 1835
Letter No. 23, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a copy of a letter from Native Agent, Hyderabad, reporting:-
(a) Peeru Khoso’s son complained to Meer Nur Mohomed of the treatment received by his father from Officer Commanding the Forces at Blameer. Meer Nur Mohomed gave him a disappointing reply;
(b) That Rajah Ranjeetsing had sent one Chunilal as a Vakil to Cabool for transmitting any news from that quarter;
(c) Meerza Mohomed Bakarshah who was deputed by Meer Nur Mohomed to establish a treaty with Meer Mehrabkhan of Kelat, returned;
Salamatrai Munshi and Vakil of Rajah of Jessulmere arrived with some presents for Meer Nur Mohomed and Meer Naseerkhan. Year, 1832-33 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (32) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th March 1835
Letter, from Native Agent to Colonel Pottenger informing that Bharra and other Khosas appeared before Meer Nur Mohomed and the latter reprimanded them for their conduct and ordered them to leave Thar and reside in Sind; That reports had been received that Dost Mohomed Khan had determined to give battle to the Sikhs and that he was collecting men and money for the purpose. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (38-40) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th March 1835
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a copy of a letter from Native Agent to the following effect:-
That the Ameer Nur Mohommed sent for Bhara Khosa and others of the same tribe and warned them to abstain from their predatory habits and recommended them to leave Thul and take up their abode within the precincts of Sind; Khan had determined on giving battle to the Sikh army and everyday people were flocking from Khorasan to Dost Muhammad’s standard. Year, 1835… Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (38-40) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
9th April 1835
Letter, from Native Agent to Colonel Pottenger reporting that Meer Nur- Mohomed was taking vigorous steps against the Khosas. Year, 1835, Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (41) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th April 1835
Letter No. 29. From Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing that he had received a letter from Native Agent at Hyderabad for permission to go to Bhooj as a bearer of certain secret and important messages from Sind Ameers.
23rd April 1835
Letter No. 34, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that object of the Ameers in sending the Native Agent with messages to Bhooj was to remonstrate against British Government’s intentions to build the fortress in Bahawal Khan’s country. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (52-53) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th April 1835
Letter No. 30, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that Meer Nur Mohommed Khan had given orders for half treasures being brought from various places. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (42-43) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th May 1835
Letter No. 34, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay acknowledging receipt of a copy of their letter to Mohomed Rahim Shirazi relating to opening the trade by the Indus and informing was in end of February, March and April as the southerly winds blew regularly then; letter No. 31 of even date forwarding copy of the above to Government of India for information. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (56-57) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
May 1835,
Pottinger sends his assistant, Alexander Burnes, to Hyderabad at the aMeer’s request. The Ameers hope to conclude an offensive-defensive alliance with the British directed against Ranjit Singh whose pretensions to Shikarpur, jointly owned with the Ameers of Upper Sind and some forty miles northwest of Khyrpore; they had good cause to fear. [Page/30 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
13th June 1835
Letter No. 40, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that the Ameers of Hyderabad refused to restore to Rai of Cutch a vessel which had stranded near one of the months of river Indus and that he had made a further reference to the Meer on the subject and should he still refuse to comply with the request, he should be forced to restore the property and should be forced to restore the property and abandon the barbarous custom of confiscating the stranded vessels and requesting that the survey of the months of river Indus should be set about early; Letter No. 47, dated 14th June 1835, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing that Meer Nur Mohomed had in consequence of remonstrance restored the vessel and the property; That His Highness had forced the Khosas to move to the Eastern Frontier and that he had given a civil and encouraging reply to a Persian merchant who had gone to make enquiries respecting the trade by Indus. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (58-59) &)Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (67-68) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th August 1835
Letter No. 50, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Mackeson, British Agent for Navigation of the Indus, pointing out the disadvantages of applying to Sind Government on each occasion of the boats for special order as a beaten road for travelers. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (69-72) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th August 1835
Letter No. 51, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding copy of the above for information. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (72) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th August 1835
Letter No. 54, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay asking for permission to set the Ranna of Parkar (a state prisoner at Bhooj at liberty on condition that he would either live in Cutch or Sind; Informing that in anticipation of Government orders he had acceded to the request of Meer Nur Mohomed and released eight of the relations and followers of Rana Jagatsing of Parkar placed in confinement by the Sind Government. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (73-75) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
30th August 1835
Letter No.58, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that the Ameer had consented to restore the boat and other property seized by the Sind officers; That the practice of condemning stranded vessels might be considered to have been finally abandoned; asking for instructions before he brought the question of a survey of the Indus to Meer Nur Mohomed ; Forwarding copy of the above for making remarks on the question of the survey of river Indus. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (79-81) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th September 1835
Letter No. 63, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting substance of two letters from Meer Nur Mohomed and from the Native Agent. In the one the Meer asked for permission to be granted to Native Agent to proceed to Bhooj with certain confidential messages and asking for a medical officer to be sent to Hyderabad; In the other the Native Agent reporting that Meer Nur Mohomed promised that no molestation would be offered to the merchants trading by Indus; That the Ameers were in great tribulation about Ranjeetsing attacking Shikarpur; Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (94-97) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th September 1835
Letter No. 67, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India relating to Mission sent under Diwan Lakhmichand by Meer Rustomkhan of Khyrpore; letter No. 70, dated 3rd October 1835, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that Meer Rustom’s Vakeel who arrived at Bhooj, some days ago, paid him visits and brought presents from his master for Government of India and for him; expressed feelings of friendship and devotion to British Government. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (99) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th September 1835
Letter from Colonel Pottenger to Sir Charles Metcalfe Governor-General of India for promotion. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (100-104) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd October 1835
Letter No. 70, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting the nature of the secret messages brought by the British Native Agent from Ameers of Sind and the reply he intended to give and intimating his intention of deputing Lieutenant Burns to Hyderabad as the medium of certain communications which appeared to him to be urgently called for. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (106-111) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th October 1835
Letter No. 73, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Mackeson, British Agent for the Navy of Indus, informing that the Ameers of Sind were aware of his appointment and the duties he was required to perform; That he was sending Lieutenant Burns to Hyderabad, in connection with certain explanatory messages to the Ameers and that the necessity for their directing their local officers to attend to his requisitions had formed a part of Lieutenant Burn’s instruction. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (114-115) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
12th October 1835
Letter No. 77, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting (I) some secret communications made by the Vakeel from Khyrpore relating to determination of Meer Rustomkhan’s position with respect to Hyderabad Government, (2) requesting instructions. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (117-119) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th October 1835
Letter No. 78, and from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Burns furnishing him with detailed instructions as to how he should move with Ameers while on deputation at Hyderabad; letters Nos. 79 and 80 of even date forwarding copy of the above to Government of India and Government of Bombay for information. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (120-130) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (130-131) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st October 1835
Letter No. 81, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Burns informing him of the deputation of Dr. Heddle to Sind for negotiating with the Ameers in connection with the survey of river Indus and desiring him to confine himself to what he contemplated in his letter of 22nd October; letter No. 82 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India intimating that the deputation of Dr. Heddle by Government of Bombay without his consultation had put him and Lieutenant Burns in a difficult position; letter No. 84, dated 3rd November 1835, from Colonel Pottenger to Dr. Heddle informing him of the appointment on deputation of Lieutenant Burns to Hyderabad, stating that he had strictly prohibited Lieutenant Burns from interfering with the objects to proceed with his business without reference to his presence; letters Nos. 85 and 86 of even date from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay and Government of India forwarding a copy of the above for information. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (131-132) &) Year, 1835… Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (132-135) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (136-137) &) Year, 1835… Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (137) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th November 1835
Letter No. 88, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India intimating that Nihalsing with a considerable force had arrived at Multan and he halted there for orders to advance; that Dost Mohommed Khan of Colonel had proposed to Ameers of Sind to join with him in the great struggle against the consternation and were making active arrangement to oppose the Sheikhs. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (138-139) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
20th November 1835
Letter No. 92, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Wade, Political Agent, and Ludhiana, regarding detention on Indus of boats coming from Ludhiana and the grounds for calling on the Ameers to pay demurrage. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (140-142) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th December 1835
Letter Nos. 98 and 99 from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Burns expressing his approbation of his proceedings with Ameers of Sind and directing him to remain at Hyderabad if Meer Nur Mohommed proposed him to do so. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (146-147) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th December 1835
Letter No. 106, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay explaining in detail the motives which had induced him to direct Lieutenant Burns to take no share in Dr. Heddle’s negotiations with the Ameers of Sind for the survey of Indus; letter No. 107, dated 18th December 1835, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding copy of the above for information. Year, 1835… Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (152-161) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (161-162) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd December 1835
Letter No. 108, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India acknowledging receipt of their letter on the subject of Lieutenant Burns deputation and offering some further explanation of the motives which induced him to take that step without previous reference and expressing his hope that the result of the deputation would appear satisfactory to Government. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (162-165) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd December 1835
Letter No. 109, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay forwarding copy of the above and informing that Meer Noor Mohomed Khan had consented to a survey and examination of the river Indus and requesting that necessary order be issued for commencing the work. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (166) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th December 1835
Letter No. 116, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding copy of Lieutenant Burns’ dispatch containing overtures from Ameers of Sind for establishing intimate connection with the Province including the residence of British Agent in Sind and recommending that proposals be accepted. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (170-175) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
32nd December 1835
Letter No. 108, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India acknowledging receipt of their letter on the subject of Lieutenant Burns’ deputation and offering some further explanation step without previous reference and expressing his hope that the result of the deputation would appear satisfactory to Government. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (162-165) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd January 1836
Letter No. 5, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India transmitting a copy of a letter received from Government of Bombay commenting on his measures regarding Dr. Heddle’s mission to Sind and trusting that his conduct would be viewed by Governor-General with due allowance for the delicate situation in which he was placed. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (190-191) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
28th January 1836
Letter No. 9, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India transmitting a copy of a letter from Dr. Heddle complaining of the incivility he experienced in Sind and offering some palliative circumstances in the Ameers demeanor. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (193-211) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th February 1836
Letter No. 11, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that he had Jearnt that Assistant Surgeon Hathorn Had been recalled from Sind under orders of Government of Bombay and offering his opinion as to the light in which Meer Noor Mohomed Khan might view this measure. Year, 1835… Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (213-216) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th February 1836
Letter No. 13, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Burns regarding a flat-bottomed boat that was to be sent from Bombay to the Commander of East India Company’s Sloop “War Amherst” to deliver in charge of Petamber, the Bunder Master at Mandvi, the above boat; letter No. 17, dated 8th March 1836, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Carless asking him to return to Mandvi as the season had far advanced and it was not possible to proceed with the survey work and informing that he had asked Lieutenant Wood of Indian Navy to remain on the Indus and watch the progress of the Indus; Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (217-218) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (219-220) &) Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (220-221) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
March 1839
The treaty is ratified by the Governor-General and Karachi is provided for in a separate agreement drawn up at the time of its capture between Rear AdMeeral Frederick Lewis Maitland and Brigadier T. Valiant on the part of the British and Hassal Ben Butcha, the commandant of Manora Fort, and Khyer Mahomed, the Governor of Karachi, on behalf of Nur Mahomed. The first article is the most significant; it said simply “that the full possession of the fort and town of Kurrachee shall be this day given up by the aforesaid Governor to the British forces”. [Page/54“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
5th March 1836
Colonel Pottenger writes to Meer Rustomkhan of Khyrpore informing that friendship and good will of British Government towards Khyrpore will remain forever. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (221-223) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th March 1836
Letter,from Colonel Pottenger to Munshi Jethanand informing him that merchants going from Bombay had been disturbed on the way while passing through Indus and that he had written to Meer Noor Mohomed to issue orders to his men not to interfere with the boats. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (223-224) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th March 1836
Letter No. 22, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding for information a copy of his letter to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan discussing the terms of a new treaty he made with him. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (225-228) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th March, 1836
Letter No. 18, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Wood forwarding a copy of the above and intimating that he had informed Meer Noor Mohomed of the above arrangements and that he had requested the Meer to afford him every facility in carrying out his duties. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (221-223) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
20th March, 1836
Letter No. from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India submitting copies of instructions issued to officers of India Navy employed in surveying and examining the Indus and stating his opinion with regard to the river being examined annually. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (224) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th April 1836
Letter No. 34, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding translation of a letter from Meer Noor Mohomed Khan and of a letter from his agents complaining of the incivility with which his highness’s emissaries had been treated at Bombay; letter No 39, dated 17th May 1836 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting receipt of a second letter from Meer Nur Muhammad Khan regarding the treatment meted out to his Vakeels at Bombay. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (251-253) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
21st April 1836
Letter No. 36, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding translation of a letter from Native Agent at Hyderabad containing the observations made by Meer Noor Muhammad Khan on the reply sent to him regarding a European being permanently stationed in sind. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (245-249) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th May 1836
Letter No. 41, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India informing that treaty made by Meerza Bakarshah (who was sent to Baluchistan) with Mehrabkhan of Kelat to make a simultaneous attack on the plunderers who infested the borders of both the States. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (254-255) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th June 1836
Letter No. 46, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India submitting translation of a letter from Native Agent, Hyderabad, containing the defence of His Highness as to his conduct towards Dr. Heddle and explaining his motives for having kept the above letter for long. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (259-265) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th June 1836
Letter No. 48, from Colonel Pottenger of India forwarding a translation of the letters from Native Agent at Hyderabad reporting that he waited on Meer Noor Mohammad Khan in connection with the question relating to establishment of a British Agent in Sind; communicating further news. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (266-267) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th June 1836
Letter No. 50, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting the substance of the letters received from Meer Rustomkhan of Khyrpore and asking for permission to send presents to him and his brother. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (269-271) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
21st June 1836
Letter Nos. 55 and 56 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay and Government of India forwarding-
(I) A copy of the letter from Assistant Surgeon Hathorn for allowances during the period he was in Sind.
(2) Medical case of His Highness Meer Noor Mohomad Khan of Hyderabad. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (276) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th June 1836
Letter No. 57, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India acknowledging receipt of a letter from the Honorable the Court Directors regarding mode to be adopted for trial of British subjects when delivered over to Native states and reporting that he had no occasion to hold any trial since the receipt of the Circular of October 1834. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (277-279) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st July 1836
Letter No. 59 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding Extracts of a letter from Native Agent at Hyderabad reporting on the following points:-
(I) The alarm of the Ameers at the intimation received from Rajah Ranjeetsing of his intention of calling on them to restore Shikarpur town;
(2) Further application for pecuniary aid from Dost Mohomad
(3) Failure of Hyderabad Ameers in mediating between Meer Nusseerkhan of Hyderabad Meer Alimurad Khan of Meerpur with regard to some disputed land.
(4) The quantity of opium passed through Sind and the bad faith of Ameers in their promises to the merchants; letter No. 60 of even date from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay forwarding copy of the above with his comments on the opium question. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (281-83) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
12th July 1836
Letter No. 62, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting receipt of a kind letter from Meer Noor Mohomad Khan accompanied by five camel loads of mangoes and the purport of his reply he addressed to him. Year, 1835 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (286-287) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th August, 1836
Despite the pessimistic reports Auckland sends an experimental steamer up the Indus and asks the Court to send two or three more steam vessels. He writes to Sir James Carnac, Governor of Bombay, that the authorities at Bombay are needlessly discouraged by the report of Carless and Wood; and he hopes to encourage trade on the river by the establishment of annual fair on its banks. With a view to these objects and that of obtaining general information he proposes to send Captain Alexander Burnes on a mission to Lahore and Kabul. (Auckland Papers No.37689)
29th August, 1836
Auckland Observes that “I am unwilling to give the alarming color of political speculation to a mission, the main object of which is commercial, but it is impossible to divest of political interest any observation of the Countries on the Indus and to the West of the river. It is difficult to see without some anxiety the exertions made on every occasion by the ruler of the Punjab to extend his power; all information from that quarter must be valuable, and it may not be useless ostensibly to mark that nothing which is their passing is viewed with indifference by the Brithsh Government or escapes its notice.(Minute on Commerce and navigation on the Indus. By Auckland)
August, 1836
The Sikh troops were once more on the march toward Sind. Divan Sanwanmal again captured Rojhan and carried by assault a small Sindian fort near Shikarpur. To equip his troops Ranjit Singh asked the British for “50,000 stand of arms,” but they were refused him. The Governor-General was seriously worried by the Sikh advance. [Page/35 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
September, 1836
Wade is in Lahore to discuss with Ranjit Singh and use every means short of actual threats to keep Ranjit Sing at Lahore and prevent the further advancement of his army towards Sindh. [Page/36 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
September 1836
The Governor-General entertains the conviction that the Government of India is bound by the strongest considerations of political interest to prevent the extension of the Sikh power along the whole course of the Indus. It cannot also view with indifference any disturbance of the existing relations of peace between the several states occupying the banks of the river. [Page/35 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
18th November, 1836
Pottinger is in empowered to receive overtures from the Ameers for the complete dependence of Sind on Britain, which would require a permanent detachment of British troops in Sind but would guarantee the Ameers protection against all enemies. (IOR, Indian Secret Letters)
November 1836
Pottinger arrives in Hyderabad and reports to the Central Government that he had entered into a provisional agreement with Nur Mahomed providing for the residency of a British agent in Shikarpur. [Page/37 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
10th December 1836
Letter No. 124, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting as under:-
(I) That on his arrival at Vikkur he was met by Governors of Tatta and Mugerbin, and servants of Meers Noor Mohomed and Meer mohomed, respectively At Tatta he was met by Meerza Bakar, Meer Noor Mohomed’s principal treasurer, Secretary and bosom friend, who brought a message from his master desiring him to keep secret the fact of his visit to Sind on invitation by him (the Meer);
(2) That on evening of 22nd Meerza Bakar saw him and enquired whether he wanted to pay visit to the Meer and said that the Meer wanted to know the object of his Mission. He was replied that he had two communications to make (one regarding opening of the Indus and the other of a purely political nature) Meerza Bakar desired that there were still cogent reasons which rendered secrecy and precaution advisable for some time This conversation afforded him a perfect insight into domestic dissensions of the ruling family;
(4) His visit to the Meer on 23rd with Meerza Bakar and Baluch Khans who formed his escort;
(5) That on the next day he paid another visit to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan and when he met him in his room Meer Noor Mohomed Khan whispered him not to say anything in public as Mohomed Usif and Mohomed Khan Talpoor, servants of Meer Mohomed Khan, were sitting as spies;
(6) That on the morning of 25th he sent his commercial memorandum to Meer Noor Mohomed through his agents who expressed his agreement to all proposals contained therein. Meerza Bakar’s conversation with him on the politics and propects of Sind, the relations of all the Ameers with one another and the un-compromising attitude of Meer Sobdarkhan towards the British and his object of going out on hunting on the day of Colonel Pottenger’s arrival;
(7) On 28th he devoted that day to receiving visits from one Mohammed Tahir, Agent of Agha Rahim Shirazee of Bombay, and from several well him on the trade of Sind. The latter complained that on account of the dread of Shikhs, Shikarpur which was once known for its flourishing trade with Khorasan had been Deserted and that the whole World anxiously looked to the British to interfere and thereby restore prosperity not only of Shikarpur but of all countries bordering on their dominions;
(8) That in the afternoon he sent his secret memorandum to Meer Noor Mohomed through Syed Azamoodin.
(9) Visit of Colonel Pottenger to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan and on his return he was accompanied by Meerza Bakar who consulted him on two points:-
(a) That Meer Noor Mohomed had an intention to call out the whole army and proceed against Maharajah Ranjeetsing;
(b) That it was possible Meer Sobdarkhan might refuse to allow commercial treaty to be carried into effect.
(10) On the 1st November Meerza Bakar brought the commercial treaty signed and sealed by the three Ameers;
(11) That on 1st December he had an interview from Syed Ali, Agent of Ali Mohomed Khan Shustry a merchant of Bombay, who desired Colonel Pottenger to recommend him to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan’s protection. This he accordingly did. In the evening Colonel Pottenger saw the ex-Rana of Parkar who resided at Hyderabad and received his stipends from the Native Agent. He expressed his thankfulness to Meer Noor Mohomed for his kind treatment;
(12) That heoffered presents to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan which were appreciated by him;
(13) That he learnt from Munshi Jethanand that Sobdar regretted his refusal to sign the treaty and that he wished to open communication with British Government through him. Colonel Potternger refused to see him without obtaining permission from Meer Noor Mohomed;
(14) That he sent the commercial treaty in English and Persian duly sealed and signed to Meer Noor Mohomed He went to the Durbar where Meer Noor Mohomed told him that he would religiously abide by stipulations made in it;
(15) That on the morning of 5th he rode down and embarked on board the “Jhampti”. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 303 page No (279-333) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Private letters from Azamuddin Hassan to Colonel Pottenger informing that he had forwarded papers to him; one relating to the local trade of Vikkur and the other to the general system of revenue in Sind, character of the people, their mode of life; private letter, dated 15th April 1837, from Azamuddin Hassan to Colonel Pottenger reporting that on 14th Meerza Bakar Khan came from Meer Noor Mohomed to welcome him and presented him with a purse of Rs. 200 which he accepted. He entered into discussion on several points relating to treaty and had assurance from him that the Governor-General will not interfere into the private and family disputes of the Ameers. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (103-109) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (149-161) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
12th October, 1836
“Pottinger write to prinsep that our Paramountcy not only entitles, but calls on [us] to stand forward to save the country of Sinde from the aggressions of Ranject Singh, and further, that we must establish a decided Political ascendency . . . [and] that the Maharaja should be distinctly warned off.” (IOR, Indian Secret Letters)
2nd January, 1837
Secret Committee writes to Governor-General, Auckland that “Your Honourable Committee will perceive that our negotiation is now narrowed to two objects-the improvement of our relations with the Ameers of Sinde by stationing a British agent at their capital, and the adjustment, with the consent of both parties of the present difference of the Ameers and the Ranjeet Singh-Should these objects be attained, of which there is every possibility, the preservation of tranquility along the whole course of the Indus will be the natural consequence”. (IOR, Indian Secret Letters)
11th May 1837
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Syed Azamuddin Hassan informing him that His Lordship made a direct and precise offer of mediating between the Governments of Sind and Lahore on the understanding that the Sind Government of a Resident in their territory; and asking him to return to Bhooj after taking leave from the Ameer. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (171-173) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter from Colonel Pottenger to Munsho Jethanand informing that it was understood that one Ali Muhammed Khan who was going from Hindoostan to the Court of Mohomed Shah of Persia and that Ameers of Sind had given “Ureezee” (petition) for him and that it was important that he should find out how far it was true. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (219-224) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
20th September, 1837
Burnes arrived in Kabul and was received by Dost Mahomed “with most gratifying demonstrations of respect and civility.” But he soon reported to Auckland that the Afghan ruler showed a marked predilection for the Russians and Persians. [Page/44 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
27th December, 1837
While Writing to Macnaghtem, Potinger objects appointment of Wades assistant Lieutenant Mackeson to arbitrate between Ameers and the Sikhs on Mazari territory question, because, he feels that Mackeson may be prejudiced in favour of Ranjit Singh. [Page/38 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
27th February 1838
Government of India writes to Colonel Pottenger approving of the tenor of Communications made to Meur Sobdarkhan and concurring with Colonel Pottenger in his opinion that his visit to Sind should be dependent on the final appointment of a Resident in Sind. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (369-370) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd March 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger informing him that Government of India were surprised and concerned to hear that Ameers of Sind had submitted themselves to the Court of Persia and desiring him to apprise the Ameere of the views of British Government the matter. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (377-378) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th April 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger approving of his intention of going to Sind in company with the Resident in Sind when that officer was finally appointed after the formal ratification of the agreement tendered to the Ameers. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (385-386) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
20th April 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger appointing him as Resident in Sind in addition to his duties as Resident at Cutch and appointing Caption Melwill as Assistant to the Resident in Sind and British Agent for navigation of the British ships on Indus; and desiring him to proceed to Hyderabad with Captain Melwill and to return to Cutch as soon as he had placed matters on a satisfactory footing; leaving Captain Melwill at Hyderabad to be the channel of all communications between him and the Ameers; letter, dated 20th April 1838, from Government of India to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan informing him of appointments of Colonel Pottenger and Captain Melwill as Agents and Assistant Agent for Sind; informing that in deference to the wishes of junior Ameers he had signed separate agreements for Ameers Sobadarkhan, Meer Mohomedkhan and Nuseerkhan and that he would not separate treaties with them, should any occasion arise in the future. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (393-395) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd April 1838
Colonel Pottenger writes to Munshi Jethanand asking him to enquire from Meer Sher Mohomed Khan of Meerpur whether he liked to have a separate treaty signed by His Lordship. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (225-227) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
April 23, 1838,
Auckland reported to the Secret to the Secret Committee that an agreement had been signed with the Ameers of Hyderabad whereby a British resident was to be stationed at Hyderabad, the British were to use their good offices for the settlement of Sikh-Sind conflict, and all intercourse between the Sikhs and Lahore was in future to be conducted through the medium of the British Government. Separate documents were granted to the junior Ameers, but Nur Mahomed in association with his brother, Nasir Khan, was recognized as the chief with whom alone the British would deal. Colonel Pottinger was appointed resident and Captain P. M. Melvill, of the 7th Regiment of the Bombay Native Infantry, was named his assistant and British agent for the navigation of the lower course of the Indus. [Page/42 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
2nd May 1838
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Noor Mohomed informing him that Dhoolaji brother of Jagatsing of Nagar Parkar had been seized and would be sent to Hyderabad if His Highness so desired. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (233-235) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd June 1838
Letter No. 57, from Colonel Pottenger to A. C. Gordon on deputation to Hyderabad informing him that some of the Punjab boats were plundered in Khyrpore country and statig the steps he had taken in the matters; letter, dated 25th June 1838, from A. C. Gordon, Assistant Surgeon on special duty to Colonel Pottenger reporting an outrage committed by sepoys of Meer Murad Ali on the boatmen; letters Nos. 81 and 107, dated 7th July 1838 and 11th September 1838, respectively, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India transmitting copies of letters received from Dr. Gordon regarding exactions made from the return boats on the Indus ; letters, dated 11th October 1838, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger approving of the action taken by him on the matter and with reference to Moulvi Nasruddin and his followers ; letter, dated 13th December 1838, from Government of India forwarding for information and guidance an extract from the dispatch from the Honourable Court the Court of Directors relating to the system under which Native Chiefs were held responsible with respect to property plundered while crossing their territories. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (55-66) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (69-72) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (73-84) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (85) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (153-155)
2. Dispute between Meer Alimurad Khan and Naseerkhan of Khyrpore relating to right of possession over five villages-Decision of Mr.Ross Bell, Polotical Agent, in case of-; several agreements entered into by Meer Rustom Khan to Major Outram for restoration of the five villages given to Meer Alimurad Khan by Mr. Ross Bell or for permission to settle the question with Meer Alimurad Khan without intererferance of British Government; Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (295-300)
2nd May, 1838
Governor-General, Auckland forms opinion that “The Ameers of Sinde though all professing friendship have some of them been corresponding in terms of submission… with the Persians, and would thereby justify any course which we may think it expedient to adopt towards them.” “The Ameers spoke fairly but acted foully.” [Page/46“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
24th May 1838
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan sending him treaties of articles ratified by Governor-General; informing that he had been appointed as Resident in Sind and that as Captain Mellwill, his assistant, was on account of his delicate health unable to proceed to Hyderabad he had determined to come there as soon as arrangements were made for him; that Governor-General had sent some presents for would bring them when he next visited Hyderabad. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (243-246) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd June 1838
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Noor Mohomed Khan informing that some boats coming from Punjab had been stopped and plundered at a place called ‘Bakee Puttung’ by sepoys of Meer Ali Murad son of late Meer Sobdarkhan and requesting that as that act was a direct breach of treaty it was in the interests of both the Governments that measures should be taken without delay for the punishment of the culprits; that as the outrage was committed in the country of Meer Rustomkhan he was sending him a copy of the above letter for necessary action; letter from Colonel Pottenger to Munshi Jethanand on the above subjects, directing him to call on Meer Nur Mohomed and request him to send trustworthy officers to investigate the matter and to punish the people of Alimurad at fault. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (255-258) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th June 1838
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Munshi Jethanand informing that he was surprised to hear that His Highness Meer Noor Muhomed Khan should have objected to his showing the letter to Meer Sobder Khan and that he had told him several times that the British Government wished to be on friendly terms with all the Ameers of Sind and it was his duty to cultivate friendship as much as possible. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (265-268) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th June 1838
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Meer Rustomkhan informing him that Government of India will not make any application to Maharajah Ranjeetsing for restoration of Muzaree district and Rojan until Moulvi Naseerdin was seized and his followers driven out of Sind. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (269-271) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th June 1838
Letter No. 65, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting arrival of Dr. Gordon and of the Dewan in service of Maharajah Ranjeetsing from Bombay en route to Ludhiana; visit of Dewan to Colonel Pottenger and delivery of a letter with some presents to him from Maharajah; that Meer Sher Mohomed Khan of Meerpurkhas visited Meer Noor Muohomed and a treaty composing the difference between the Ameers was drawn up and when it was sent to Meer Sobdarkhan he refused to affix his seal; that Meer Noor Mohomed Khan had no fear of Persian Army taking heart and recommended them to send troops for his assistance; that he had written a letter to Meer Rustomkhan of Khyrpore requesting him to take adequate steps for punishing Nasroodin; letter dated 12th June 1838 from Government of India approving of the manner the Dewan was received by him and authorizing him to charge in his accounts the disbursements made by him to the Dewan, &c; letter No. 82, dated 13th July 1838, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that he had received letters from Meer Sobdarkhan and Meer Sher Mohomed Khan acknowledging the ratified treaties and expressing the gratification at his appointment as Resident; giving an account of the alleged Persian Prince who had arrived at Hyderabad.
June 1838
Auckland, influenced by a misguided Macnaghten and a misleading Bures, determined to persevere. To achieve the replacement of Dost Mahomed to with Shah Shuja it was necessary to gain the cooperation of Ranjit Singh and to acquire the right of transit through Sind as well as certain further concessions from the Ameers. It was decided that to defray some of the expenses of the expedition and to assure funds to reward Ranjit Singh for his cooperation, the fiction of a tribute payable to Shah Shuja as suzerain of the Ameers of Sind would be revived; and a treaty to this effect was signed by the British, Shah Shuja, and Ranjit Singh without the Ameers even being a party to it. This tripartite treaty set up the machinery for the invasion of Afghanistain. The sixteenth article provided that Shah Shuja would relinquish all claims on the Ameers of Sind for a sum to be determined by the British, and it was anticipated that the amount would be in excess of twenty lakhs. [Page/44 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
3rd August 1838
Government of India writes approving of the tenor of his letter to the address of Meer Rustomkhan desiring him to write to the Meer to put the frantic Nasroodin in confinement and to hold him responsible for further mischief committed by him. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (407-408) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th August 1838
Letter No. 85, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India submitting translation of a petition by Meer Noor Mohomed to Shah of Persia, &c. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (461-446) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th August, 1838
Pottinger wrote to Macnaghten that the principal Ameers of Hyderabad had written a letter to the Shah of Persia. Pottinger himself did not attach mush importance to this as all Ameers except Sobdar were Shias and hence considered the Shah their ecclesiastical superior. [Page/46 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
13th August, 1838
Auckland decided to replace Dost Mahomed with a ruler friendlier to British designs in Central Asia. The candidate of his choice was the oft defeated but ever hopeful former monarch, Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk, whose aspirations the British had previously often spurned. Auckland wrote:
As to the justice of the course about to be pursued there cannot exist a reasonable doubt. We owe it to our safety to assist the lawful sovereign of Afghanistan in the East requires of his throne. The welfare of our possessions in the East requires that we should in the present crisis of affairs have a decidedly friendly power on our frontier and that we should have an ally who is interested in resisting aggression and establishing tranquility in place of a Chief seeking to identify himself with those whose schemes of aggrandizement and conquest are not to be disguised. [Page/44 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
14th August 1838
Letter No. 89, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting substance of a letter from Native Agent of Hyderabad and explaining the natu e of fued alluded to therein between the Talpoors and Lagharees. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (465-469) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th August 1838
Government of India writes to Colonel Pottenger desiring him to approach the Meer of Khyrpore to allow British Government to occupy Bukkur to enable them to keep open the passage of the river for troops proceeding to Candhar and to maintain their communications. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (429-430) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th August, 1838
The Ameers of Hyderabad are meanwhile mulcted of twenty lakhs of rupees for the payment of Shah Shuja, ten of which were paid at the time of the acceptance of the draft treaty. The final from of the treaty as sent from Calcutta by Auckland consistes of 14 articles and is more stringent than Pottinger’s draft of 23 articles. It provides for a British force to be stationed in Sind, at Tatta or such other place westward of the Indus as the Governor-General might select. The strength of this force would also be determined by the Governor-General but would not exceed 5,000 men. Meers Nur Mahomed Khan, Nasir Mahomed Khan, and Meer Mahomed Khan are to pay one lakh of annum for support of the British force. Meer Sobdar is exempt from any payment. [Page/53“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
20th August 1838
Letter No. 143, from Government of Bombay requesting Colonel Pottenger to keep them informed of the progress of his negotiations with Ameers of Sind; best mode of transmitting troops to Sind should such a contingency arose; what extent of transport would be obtained either at mouth of Indus or at Tatta? Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (423-425) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd August 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger requesting him to take measures for purchase of grain crops at Larkana from the Ameers of Sind and other dealers at that place; Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (435-436) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th August 1838
Colonel Pottenger writes (letter no. 94) to Government of India reporting his intention of resuming his journey in a few days to Sind. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (475-478) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th August 1838
Letter No. 100, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India acknowledging receipt of instructions of 26th July 1838, and assigning reasons for calling on Government of Bombay to prepare a force for eventual service in Sind. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (493-496) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th September 1838
Letter No. 102, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk had sent a letter to the Ameers of Sind for help and the Ameers had sent a reply to him. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (505-509) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th September 1838
Government of India writes to Captain Burns appointing him in charge of Mission at Cabool, giving him further instructions for his guidance. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (511-515) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
8th September 1838
Letter, from Government of India acknowledging receipt of Colonel Pottenger’s letters of 25th and 27th August and informing that in view of “deep duplicity displayed by Meer Noor Mohomed Khan, his unjustifiable conduct in other respects, and owing to feelings of unwarrantable eneimity and jealousy with which he appeared to be regarded by some of the Chiefs, it was essential that a British force of 5000 men should advance without delay for occupation of Shikarpur or any other place deemed Indus; informing that Captain Burns had been deputed to visit Khyrpore and if necessary to enter into a new treaty with the Meer guaranteeing his independence and assuring him protection of British Government against all external enemies. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (499-503) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
14th September 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger informing him that he would reach Bukkur by end of the month and requesting that before he proceeded to Khyrpore he might be informed of the decision arrived at by him regarding affairs of Sind; from Colonel Pottenger in reply informing him that arrangements had been made by his agents for purchase of corn, &c., as directed by Governor-General; letter No. 116, dated 8th October 1838, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns furnishing information on the points referred to in his letter; informing him how he was insulted when he returned from the Durbar of Meer Noor Mohomed and in the circumstances it was hopeless on his part to succeed to get the fort of Bukkur on loan; letter dated October 1838, from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger reporting his arrival at Bukkur.
16th September 1838
Letter from Government of India acknowledging receipt of copies of communications from Meer Noor Mohomed to the Shah of Persia relating to his allegiance to him and informing him that the duplicity on the part of Meer Noor Mohomed in making professions of submission to Persia and of close alliance with British Government had forfeited for him (Nur Mohomed) all confidence and friendly consideration on part of Governor-General; directing him to proclaim as soon as a force arrived from Bombay that if an act of hostility and bad faith had been committed towards British Government the share of the Government of Sind held by any party should be transferred to the most faithful members of the family and that as security for the future, a British subsidiary force should be maintained in Sind, and giving further instructions for future guidance. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (523-524) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (601-607) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (601-607) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th September 1838
Letter No. 108, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay informing that Ameers had sent their reply to Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk refusing to allow His Majesty a passage through Sind; that if British Government had to send troops to Sind the Indus would be the proper channel and if advisable a detachment might proceed to occupy Karachi. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (527-529) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
24th September, 1838”
Pottinger is ordered to take the strongest action against Nur Mahomed “for his duplicity in making at the same moment profession of submission to Persia and of close alliance with the British Government.” [Page/46“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
29th September 1838
Letter, from Government of Bombay to acting Assistant in charge of Residency at Bhooj asking him to report whether tonnage could be obtained at Port of Mandvi for conveyance of Regiment of Cavalry destined for service in Sind.
29th September 1838
Government of Bombay writes to Superintendent of India Navy for assistance in transporting a force to Karachi. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (565) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th September 1838
Letter No.283, from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger asking him for information regarding the route by which he would recommend the force should march from Bombay and the probability of their being opposed; whether it would be expedient either by force or with consent of the Ameers to occupy the Fort of Karachi with a detachment of British troops; whether it would be expedient to make any demonstration on Hyderabad either from Cutch or Deesa; and assuring Colonel Pottenger that Government of Bombay would on all occasions be prepared to comply with his wishes and requisitions with utmost cordiality. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (575-578) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd October 1838
Letter No. 114, from Colonel Pottenger to agent to Governor-General of India, Ajmeer and Deesa, informing Khan’s opening a correspondence with Rajah Mansing was to invite him to join a combination of the States westward of India against British Government and that he had detected Meer Noor Mohomed and others in a treacherous correspondence with Mohomed Shah of Persia and that he had reported to government of India of the arrival of a self-led Persian Prince at Hyderabad. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (595-596) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th October 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger informing him that from the papers received the suspicions felt by Governor-General of the unfriendly disposition of principal Ameers of Sind to British Government had been amply justified and if the Ameers showed a different disposition he should give immediate effect to the instructions with which he that a separate engagement be made with the Ameer at Khyrpore on the basis of recognizing his in dependence provided he maintained the same friendly attitude towards the British Government. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (519-521) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
9th October 1838
Letter No. 118, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that on his visit to Meer Sobdarkhan he was insulted on the way by the people; that Meer Noor Mohomed sent a deputation under his son Meer Shahdad Khan to apologies for the insult offered to him and to assure him that Meer Noor Mohomed had taken adequate steps to punish the culprits; that question of money payment by the Ameers of Sind to Shuja-ul-Moolk was perplexing on account of the two releases written in Kurans and sealed and signed by His Majesty which the Ameers produced; discussing the policy to be perused discussing the policy to be pursued by British Government towards the Ameers; letter No.124, dated 13th October 1838, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting some fresh instances of the unfriendly, suspicious and despicable conduct of Meer Noor Mahomed. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (617-621) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (623-625) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th October, 1838
Charless Metcalfe writes that under the treaty of 1809 the British had no right to interfere with Ranjit’s advance on Sind. A war with Lahore might end in the defeat of the British, and even if it resulted in victory for the Company, it would remove a useful buffer between India and Russia. He felt that the Sikhs would be good neighbors and that if it ever became desirable to seize the whole of the Indus river system, the British would have to defeat only one rather than two opponents. (Auckland Papers No. 37689)
16th October 1838
Letter No. 129, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay informing him that Viccur would be the best point for disembarkation of the troops; that he did not imagine that Ameers had any fixed resulation of opposing the British Government and that their fears will deter them from proceeding to open hostilities; that there was no fort at Karachi except a small squre outwork of no strength which could be of use for the purpose stated; that he had learnt from his Agent at Karachi that he was able to secure 500 camels for the army, &c. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (627-631) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th October 1838
Letter No. 2, from Captain Burns to Government of India reporting that in view of the feeling evinced at Hyderabad it was hopeless to do anything satisfactory to supply the army and thing satisfactory to supply the army and unless a charge is effected in the minds of the Ameers there was great probability of Colonel Pottenger’s quitting Sind. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (651-652) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17th October 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger discussing the feasibility of moving the Khyrpore Meers for occupying the Fort at Bukkur; reporting that proceedings of Khyrpore Chief deserved rewards for the reason that he not only refused to received that imposter Haji Husain Ali Khan, the self-styled Persian Prince, but openly expressed that he had nothing to do with enemies of British Government. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (643-646) &)
18th October 1838
Letter No. 132, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting that he was making arrangements for provision of carriages and river boats for Bombay troops.
18th October 1838
Letter No. 133 of from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay desiring that should any part of the Bombay Army be sent to Karachi, it should bring forage with it and be prepared to march to nearest point of the Indus; letter No.134 of the same date Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns informing him that he would sent him the purwanas as soon as he got them from Meer Noor Mahomed Khan. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (635-640) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th October 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Government of India reporting that he arrived at Khyrpore on the morning of 18th and delivered to Meer Rustom Khan the letters from Governor-General and Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk; that he paid a visit to the Ameer and explained to him the object of Government in restoring Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk to his indignation at the treatment accorded to Colonel Pottenger and desired to send some one of his men to convey his sentiments to Meer Noor Mohomed; letter No.2, dated 21st October 1838, from Captain Burns to Government of India reporting that a deputation from the Meer waited on him and they entered into a long to the share of the tribute which Meer Rustom Khan was called upon to pay to Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (657-659) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (661-666) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th November, 1838
Auckland decides to station a subsidiary force in Sind and if necessary not only to elevate Sobdar to the chieftainship but to guarantee each aMeer in his separate possession in return for payment of a share of the subsidy which the Governor-General intendes to charge for the maintenance of the British troops in Sind. [Page/47“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
20th October 1838
Letter No. 339 from Government of India informing Colonel Pottenger that arrangements were being made to dispatch all the troops to Karachi by sea and that orders would be issued from Military Department for sending Lieutenant Treshire and Ramsay in “S.S Polinurus” for purpose of enquiry into resources of the country on the spot under his instructions. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (669-670) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd October 1838
Letter No. 138 from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns informing that all the communications he had with Meer Noor Mohomed had not an hour passed without obtaining additional proofs of inimical feelings.
23rd October1838
Letter No.141 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay informing that should Meer Noor Mohomed order him to quit Sind he would proceed to Viccur or embark for Mandvi. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (673-675) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th October 1838
Letter No. 147, rom Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting his proceedings up to the date:
(I) That information had been received from the Chief of Candhar that he had made arrangements for assistance from Russia through Shah of Persia and that he advised Meer Noor Mohomed to do the same. Meer Noor Mohomed sent a reply saying that all the Ameers were ready to follow his advice,
(2) That Meer Noor Mohomed said to his brother Meer Mohomed that it was useless to rely on British Government and the best course was to send Colonel Pottenger away and declare allegiance to Persia. Meer Meer Mohomed refused to be a partner to such a measure. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (693-750) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th October 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger informing that a deputation under the Minister and Agent from all the Ameers of Khyrpore waited on him and expressed the earnest desire on the part of their principals to enter into a separate treaty with them and adding that they wanted to place themselves under British protection and pronounced to do nothing without consent and advice of British Government. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (743-747) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th October 1838
Letter No. 359 from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger informing him that the Bombay army was proceeding to Sind under the command of General Sir John Keane, Commander-in-Chief of Bombay.
26th October 1838
Captain Burns writes to Colonel Pottenger forwarding him a copy of a letter written by Meer Noor Mohomed Khan to Meer Rustom Khan of Khyrpore exhibiting his faithlessness and disposition towards the British Government. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (707-709) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th October 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger informing that from the treatment openly show to the self-styled Prince at Hyderabad, the insulting letter written by the Ameers to Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk afforded conclusive proof of their design to favour the enemies of British Government and that Governor-General had determined to establish a British subsidiary force there in lower Sind at the earliest possible moment; and directing that he should not enter into any negotiations with the Ameers until his authority was supported by the actual presence of the British forces. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (729-737) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th October 1838
Letter No. 152, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns replying to his several letters and offering remarks for not confirming the treaty he had sent to him and stating the terms on which he was prepared to grant a new one to the Chiefs of Khyrpore and expressing great doubts of their sincerity. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (771-777) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29th October 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger forwarding him a copy of a letter of 29th October 1838, from Government of India showing him the desirability of tendering to Meer Rustom Khan a treaty guaranteeing his to enter into negotiations with him on the terms similar to those which had been entered into by Nawab of Bahawalpur; informing that military and commercial position of Khyrpore being of far greater importance than Bahawalpur, stipulations should be added for temporary occupation of Rohri and Bukkur and that the Meers should co-operate with other powers in extending or facilitating commerce or navigation of Indus. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (783-787) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st October 1838
Letter from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger pointing out the unfriendly attitude of Meer Mubarak Khan to British Government and his warning to him conveyed through the Minister; discussing whether Shikarpur formed part of Sind or was a separate district. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (789-792) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st October 1838
Letter No. 158 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding for information a copy of his letter No. 157 of the same date to Captain Burns informing him of the unfriendly and impertinent remarks of one Lala Ladhanand, an Every of Meer Rustom Khan, who had come to see him at Hyderabad. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (793) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd November 1838
Letter No. 160 from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns acknowledging receipt of his letter of 28th October 1838, and intimating that it had made no change in his opinion as regards the insincerity on the part of Chiefs of Khyrpore and suggesting his proceedings while on his Mision; letter No. 161 of 2nd November 1838 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a copy of the above, expressing his regret at having to dissent from that officer’s opinion and offering remarks as regards settlement in Sind.
Steam communication between Bombay and mouth of Indus and opening of a depot at Tatta-
Letter No, 472, dated 2nd November 1838, from Government of Bombay to Resident in Sind relating to—
Letter No. 472, dated 2nd November 1838, from Government of Bombay to Resident in Sind relating to - Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (203-206) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th November 1838
Letter, from John Ramsay, Assistant Quarter Master-General, to Colonel Pottenger informing that Lieutent Trashier, Assistant Commanding-General, and he himself had, under orders, left for Ghorabari where they would wait for further instructions. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (853-854) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th November 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Colonel Pottenger informing that Meer Noor Mohomed Khan had written a letter to Meer Rustom Khan asking him to be guided by the Ameers of Hyderabad and that the English and that Khyrpore Meers should drive them. The latter replied to him in the negative, and he assured him (Captain Burns) that he was firm in adhering to British Government. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (863-864) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
12th November 1838
Letter, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting his proceedings at the Court of Meer Noor Mohomed Khan and the result of an important conference held with deputation sent to him by Meer Noor Mohomed Khan. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (867-882) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
14th November 1838
Captain Burns writes to Government of India reporting his action taken in connection with supply of grain and other necessaries for the army.
15th November 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Captain Burns stating that measures taken by him for an alliance with the Meer of Khyrpore are judicious and expedient and that the commutations addressed to him would show him the nature of the treaty whereby it was proposed that alliance should be concluded; that as regards Bukkur it would be required as a depot for treasure, &c.; that the Meer of Khyrpore should not be called up to contribute any sum for maintenance of subsidiary force; letter, dated 17th November 1838, from Captain Burns to Government of India forwarding them a copy of his letter of even date to Meer Rustom Khan of Khyrpore relating to the treaty and the terms on which it would be entered into and applauding his professions of friendship and devotion to British Government. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (799-801) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (803-805) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (823-824) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
17 November 1838
Letter No. 190, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns forwarding him the Purwanas as required under the seals of Meer Noor Mohomed Khan and Naseer Khan; letter No. 191, dated 17th November 1838, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Melwille acknowledging receipt of seven hoondis for Hyderabad for rupees thirty thousand; letter No. 192, dated 17th November 1838, from Colonel Pottenger to Captain Burns giving him instructions relating to purchase of corn, &c., near Bukkur. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (889-893) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th November 1838
Letter No. 196 from Colonel Pottenger to the Officer in charge of British troops informing him that he should consider himself in a friendly country and that he should at first land at Viccur until the whole force was assembled; letter No. 197 from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant East wick giving him instructions to be followed on the occasion of his deputation to meet the troops coming from Bomaby. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (901-A) &) Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (903-905) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th November 1838
Letter from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger informing him that Governor-General received with painful feeling the reports of the continued treachery and enmity of the principal Ameers of Sind and that his Lordship was not prepared to take measures against their machinations; that should Meer Noor Mohomed’s future conduct make amends for his past and should he evince a disposition to meet the just and necessary views of British Government the Governor-General would be unwilling to proceed to extremities; that should the negotiations not end in a ready submission to allow the just demands of British Government or in elevation of Meer Sobdar Khan to supremacy of Lower Sind, he was authorized to guarantee to each member of the family his separate possessions upon their agreeing to pay such quota of a fair and reasonable subsidy as might be deemed proper; that Governor- General refrained from recording his Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk was said to have executed. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (925-929) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd November 1838
Letter No. 204, from Colonel Pottenger to the Agent to Messrs. Firth & Co., Bombay, advising him not to bring his goods into the interior of Sind and informing him that his attempt to proceed to Shikarpur would expose him to the risk of being insulted, if not plundered. Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (174-175) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd November 1838
Letter No, 205, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Charles, Commanding the H’ble Count’s Surveying Brigade, requesting him to hand over the treasure consigned to him to Lieutenant East wick and desiring him not to leave the coast of Sind until the arrival of the troops as his intimate acquaintance with the locality of the whole of delta of Indus would be valuable to His Excellency; letter No. 221 of 26th November 1838, from Colonel Pottenger forwarding copy of the above letter to Government of Bombay. Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (175-178) &) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (195) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
22nd November 1838
Letter, from Lieutenant Burns, submitting his report with regard to the other preparations made in Sind to receive the army. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (939-942) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd November 1838
Letter No. 209 from Colonel Pottinger to Government of Bombay offering his opinion relating to subsidiary force to be established in Lower Sind and its composition and strength; letter No. 214 of 23rd November 1838 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting his proceedings up to that and his observations regarding the strength of subsidiary force and the cession of a portion of the country to meet the cost on account of the subsidiary force; letter of 13th December 1838 from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger informing him that His Lordship was not disposed to entertain any position having reference to territorial acquisitions in Sind as at all advisable, &c. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (955-957) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th November 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns to Government of India recommending for several reasons mentioned therein (I) fixing of a subsidiary force, (2) that Meer Noor Mohomed Khan, if permitted to reign, should send his son to apologise for all his misdemeanor to Governor-General. Year, 1833-39 … Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (839-845) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th November 1838
Letter No. 223, from Colonel Pottenger to Major-General Wiltshire, Commanding British Troops in Sind, congratulating him on his arrival in Sind and offering his opinion on several points connected with the disembarkation of the force. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (965-966) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
28th November 1838
Letter No. 230 from Colonel Pottenger to Mr. Pestanjee Framji, Agent to Messrs. Firth & Co., informing him that he considered it unsafe for him to proceed to the interior of the Province and that as he had no authority to grant by the river route (via Viccur) and then advance up the river as soon as the army moved. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (209-210) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
28th November 1838
Letter No. 233-A. from Caption Eastwick to Captain Melwille, Assistant Resident in Cutch, requesting him to supply him with one thousand camels or even more to enable the force to proceed into the interior as it was useless to depend on the Ameers of Sind for any assistance as they, in spite of their professions, were hostile to the advance of the British army and would be delighted to throw obstacles in their way. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (218-220) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st December 1838
Letter No. 239-A., from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Colonel Sir Alexander Burns relating to dispatch of treasure by the ships bringing the troops, &c.; letter No. 256 of 12th December 1838 from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay forwarding copy of the above for information and making suggestions for sale of bullion at Hyderabad to get coin necessary to meet expenses incurred by the troops; that the greatest difficulty he found and the one in which he was unable to see his way out was want of money and in spite of having 25 lakhs of bullion he was unable raise one thousand rupees at Hyderabad or at Tatta, &c.; that he had instructed Lieutenant Leckie to remain at Hyderabad as long as he was not threatened or insulted by the rabble or he saw no cause to apprehend that he and other gentlemen of the Residency were in sort of personal danger, &c. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (228-231) &) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (260-264) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st December 1838
Letter No. 271, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India forwarding a copy of his letter No. 267 of 20th December 1838 to Government of Bombay calling for subsidiary force to Sind without delay and informing that he agreed with Colinel Burns in his opinion that the presence of His Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk in Sind would be advantageous and that he trusted that His Majesty would march to Shikarpur without delay. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (318-323) &) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (312-317) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd December 1838
Letter No. 241, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting his proceedings up to 1st December 1838, as under:-
That Meer Noor Mouhammed Khan expressed his willingness to pay his share and for other Meers of the tribute of Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk, but he was informed that he (Colonel Pottenger) had been prohibited by His Lordship from interfering into the affair; that on the morning of 27th he received a letter from Lieutenant Eastwick regarding arrival of the troops at the mounth of Indus and and reporting that Ghulam Shah, who had been sent off by Meer Noor Mohomed a month ago, had not only collected grain but he refused to sell provisions on a large scale to the Army; that before the news of the arrival of the troops reached Hyderabad Meer Noor Mohomed khan called all the Baluchees to Hyderabad and brought all his guns from the bank of the river to an enclosure near Colonel Pottenger’s camp; that Meer Noor Mohomed informed the Native Agent that he meant to oppose the British army but if Colonel Pottenger gave him assurance of the safety of the country he would issue orders for their dispersal; that he was prepared to pay the tribute to Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk and if he was not able to raise the money he would put him (Colonel Pottenger) in possession of Larkana or Shikarpur till he was able to liquidate the loan. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (979-983) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd December 1838
Letter No. 242, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Colonel Burns informing him that he felt doubtful whether he would be able to get ‘Puewanas’ from the Ameers for purchase of corn for the troops. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (241-242) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd December 1838
Letter, from Captain Burns, Envoy at Kelat, to Colonel Pottenger relating to the supplies to be procured in Lower Sind for the Bombay Armay under the command of Sir John Keane; letter, dated 8th April 1839, from Government of India to the senior officer in command of the troops at Shikarpur, directing him to co-operate with the Political Agent in all matters regarding advance, protection and comfort of the army;
4th December, 1838
The Secret Committee approved of Auckland’s action, but assumed that you have not had certain proofs that those chieftains were irretrievably committed to a policy hostile to British interests-but, also, that you had the full persuasion that the restoration of Shah Shujah would be acceptable to the great body of Afghans, and moreover that he might be maintained upon the throne more by his own influence and the justice of his sway than by the continued manifest interference of the British government. [Page/44 “British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
12th December 1838
Letter No. 255, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay informing that he concurred with Commander-in-Chief regarding proposed communication with the Indus by means of a steamer and advisability of the plan and that he would make proper arrangements to receive all stores, &c., for the force. Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (257-258) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th December 1838
Letter No. 260, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India reporting his proceedings as under:-
That he had an interview with Meer Noor Mohomed Khan and other Meers in the afternoon of 3rd of December; that information had been received from Seth Naomal of Karachi, that he had collected eight hundred camels for the army but the owners of the animals could not proceed to Viccur without the express permission of the Government of Karachi; that he sent a message to Meer Noor Mohomed telling him that if the camels were not speedily produced he would suggest the Commander-in-Chief to take possession of Karachi; that he proceeded to Viccur and met Commander-in-Chief on 8th when a messenger arrived with a letter from Meer Noor Mohomed stating that he had failed to keep his promise about the camels and that he had issued orders for dispatch of several thousand camels to Viccur, &c.; that all the Ameers had given orders for guns to be removed to Lakhat, a place near Sehwan, with a view to defend Hyderabad; that one ‘ Jam located near Karachi, sent a message through his brother offering his services to British Government and proposed to meet him (Colonel Pottenger) at night through Seth Naomal but his offer was declined. Year, 1837-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (1015-1025) Year, 1838-41… Department, Political … File No, 308 page No (63-65) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th December 1838
Letter No. 262, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Colonel Pottenger Burns informing him that for reasons stated therein he would be unable to render him any help in collecting supplies and obtaining carriage for the army of the Indus, &c. Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (299-302) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th December 1838
Letter No. 264, from Colonel Pottenger to Lieutenant Colonel Burns informing him that disclosure of His Lordship’s plans regarding Lower Sindh will be ill-advised and premature and that it would enable the Ameer to Make preparations for best resistence in their power to the British Army, &c.; that Honorable Company’s steamer “Semeranis” would be dispatched on 28th with cooli laborers’ together with treasure and sepoys. Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 307 page No (306-310) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd December 1838
Letter No. 589, from Government of Bombay to Comisary-General and letter No. 2067, of 26th December 1838 from the latter to the Government of Bombay in connection with entertainment of a body of coolies required by Political Resident for service in Sind. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 pages No (1089-1090) &) Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (1095-1097) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
24th December, 1838
The treaty drawn up between Burnes and Rustam provides for perpetual friendship between Meer Rustam, his heirs and successors, and the British Government. The British for their part engages to protect the principality and territory of Khyrpore. Meer Rustam and his heir acknowledge the supremacy of the British Government and bound themselves to work in subordinate cooperation with it and to have no connection with any other chief or state. [Page/55“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
26th December 1838
Letter No. 633, from Government of Bombay to Colonel Pottenger enquiring whether it was necessary that whole of the force should arrive atonce at Karachi. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (1061-1064) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
28th December, 1838
A British resident with an appropriate escort is to be stationed in Khyrpore. A separate article provides that the Company could occupy the island of Bukkur in time of war. Rustam is also excused from paying anything in support of the Company troops, but the British intendes to force Rustam’s brother Meer Mubarak Khan to pay a subsidy, as he had been the chief opponent of the British in Khyrpore. [Page/55“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
31st December 1838
Letter, from Government of India to Colonel Pottenger relating to character of the measures taken by the Ameers towards the British Government; warning to the Ameers that their proceedings during the expedition would regulate the future them and that His Lordship was unwilling to entertain any propositions of territorial acquisition. Year, 1838… Department, Political … File No, 287page No (90-95) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Steam Communication between Bombay and mouth of Indus and openeing of a depot at Tatta.
31th December, 1838
When the Ameers refused Shuja’s demand for passage through their territories, the Governor-General writes: “The treachery of the Ameers is fully established by a variety of concurrent circumstances, of their having written a slavish areeza to the Shah of Persia … by the treatment openly shown to a self-styled Persian Prince at Hyderabad and their insulting letter to Shah Shoojah ool Moolk coupled with the distinct announcement … regarding opposition to the Shah.” He further writes “Those who are not our friends on the day of trial will be considered our enemies,” And unhappily it is amongst those that Nur Mahomed has apparently chosen to rank himself.” [Page/47“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
January, 1839
Eastwick, accompanied by Captain Outram and Lieutenant Leckie, arrives in Hyderabad in. He carries with him a draft of the proposed new treaty of twenty-three articles. The deputation soon has an audience with the Ameers.
26th January, 1839
Nur Mahomed strongly opposes some articles of the treaty .He produces a box from which he takes, one by one, all the past treaties with the British. He then asks:
“What is to become of all these? Since the day that Sind has been connected with the English there has always been some-thing new; your government is never satisfied; we are anxious for your friendship but we cannot be continually persecuted. We have given a road to your troops through our territories and now you wish to remain. This the Baloochees will never suffer. But still we might arrange this matter, were we certain that we should not be harassed with other demands.”He asks about the subsidy to Shuja, which matter had been left in abeyance for more than four months. “Is this a proof of friendship?” he wants to know. “We have failed in nothing; we have furnished camels, boats, grains; we have distressed ourselves to supply your wants.” “Nur Mahomed further observes that “Our Hunting preserves will be destroyed, our enjoyments curtailed; you tell us that money will find its way into our treasury, it does not appear so, our contractors write to us, that they are bankrupt, they have no means of fulfilling their contracts; boats, camels, are all absorbed by the English troops, trade is at a stand; pestilence has fallen on the land. [Page/50“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
14th February 1839
Letter No. 559, from Commisary-General to Government of Bombay, pointing out the difficulty experienced in proceeding carriage for advance of Sind army; letter No. 1125, dated 4th March 1839, from Government of Bombay to Commisary-General, authorizing him to purchase camels for the army. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (265-266) &) Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (266-267) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th February 1839
Letter, from Government of India to Government of Bombay conveying the approbation of His Lordship of the prompt measure adopted by His Excellency the Naval Commander for reducing Karachi. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (307-308) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
28th February 1839
Letter, from Lieutenant Eastwick, Assistant Resident in Sind, to His Excellency Sir John Keane, Commander-in-Chief of the army of the Indus reporting that the army under his command had been plundered and that the prices of commodities had been kept so high that the camp followers with their limited means were unable to purchase sufficient grain. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211page No (215-221) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
30th March 1839
Letter No. 366, from Colonel Pottenger to Officer Commanding Tatta in connection with the preservation of Shikargahs of the Ameers of Sind while passing the army through their territory. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (301-302) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd April 1839
Letter No. 2, from T.D. Lecki, Assistant Resident, Sind, to Colonel Pottenger informing him that he passed on the communications to Meers Noor Mohomed, Naseer Khan, Meer Mohomed and Sobdar all the Ameers seemed dissatisfied with the amended treaty, but they were distinctly told that the orders of Governor-General were final and no alterations could possibly be made in it. It had however come to his notice that the Ameers, one and all, had no intention to accept the amended treaty. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (1105-1109) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th April 1839
Letter No 3, from T.D. Leckie, Assistant to Lieutenant Eastwick on the subject of “Dak” runners for transmission of post from Tatta to Hyderabad and to Bukkur. Year, 1833-39… Department, Political … File No, 302 page No (1110) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
24th April 1839
Letter No. 23, from Lieutenant Leckie to Colonel Spiller, Commanding at Tatta, informing him that he would get permits from the Ameers for cutting timber required for hutting the troops and that he should send them on to him early. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (685-686) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th May 1839
Letter No. 40, from Lieutenant Leckie to Colonel Pottenger reporting that the fleet had been detained at Sehwan under the orders of Ameers. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (581-584) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
21st May, 1839
Despite his policy toward Afghanistan the development of trade on the Indus is perhaps Auckland’s chief goal. He writes: “If I can open channels of commerce to Central Asia and if I can make the Indus the throughfare for navigation, that gold and silver road (as the Burmese would call it) which it ought to be, I shall not care for much else.” He informed Hobhouse that he planned to start a monthly boat service between Bukkur and Tatta, and Bukkur and Ferozepur, as soon as events would allow it. He is determined “that five boats of 300 maunds [about 12 ½ tons] each shall start from Ferozepore for Bukkur, every fortnight, from the first of June, with passengers and goods.” The Governor-General awaited with great interest the first experiment with steam on the Indus. “I look upon the Indus,” he writes, “As the high road from London to Delhi and it requires but good arrangements to make the travelling easy.” [Page/59“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
10th May 1839
Letter No. 607, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay forwarding meteorological Register for July in reply to their letter on the subject of climate of Tatta and Karachi. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (625-630) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd May 1839
Letter, from Government of India to Political Agent, Shikarpur, forwarding for information extracts from Mr. McNaughton’s letter, dated 26th April 1839, conveying good news of triumphant occupation of Kandhar by His Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (473-474) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st July 1839
Letter, from Government of India to Mr. Ross Bell expressing approval of the arrangements for conveyance of dak between Shikarpur and Dadur and informing that no arrangements had been made for ‘dak’ between Dadur and Quetta &c. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (419-420) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
1st July 1839
Government of India writes to Mr.Ross Bell approving his plan for enlistment, organization and employment of Baluch crops. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (423) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th July 1839
Letter, No. 532, Colonel Pottenger to Government of Bombay forwarding a copy of a letter from Military Board on the question of wages and rates of hire prevailing in Sind. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (525-531) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
8th July, 1839
Secret Committee criticizes Auckland’s Sind policy and put on record that “The virtual establishment of British authority throughout Sinde may have been justified by the conduct of the Ameers and by the paramount necessity of securing the line of the Indus for purposes of defence of commercial enterprise. But it is not to be denied that by reducing the Ameers of Sinde to the condition of Tributary and Protected Princes of Hindoostan you have in fact extended the limits of the Empire and may give countenance to the charge of having departed from the resolution proclaimed in your declaration of 1st October, not to attempt any territorial aggrandizement. [Page/57“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
30th July, 1839
Pottinger raises objection to the seizure of Karachi. He feels that the British should be allowed free access to the port but that it should be returned to the Ameers. He also thinks that the Governor-General should obtain a release for Shikarpur from Shuja to show the Ameers “that we do not lose sight of their interests. [Page/52“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
20th August 1839
Governor-General recards minutes on the army of the Indus and political prospects and arrangements in Afghanistan. Year, 1839-41… Department, Political … File No, 203 page No (271-316) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th August 1839
letter, from Government of India to Mr. Ross Bell, Political Agent, Shikarpur, forwarding to him for transmission to Meer Rustom Khan of Khyrpore, a copy of the proclamation of His Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Moolk regarding his entry into Cabool; letter, dated 14th October 1839, from Government of India to Mr. Ross Bell forwaeding him copies of correspondence with Political Agent at Ludhiana on the subject of proposed proclamation by Sikh Government encouraging the general trade Government encouraging the general trade between Sind and the Punjab. Year, 1838-41… Department, Political … File No, 308 page No (63-65) &) Year, 1838-41… Department, Political … File No, 308 page No (117-120) &) Year, 1838-41… Department, Political … File No, 308 page No (133) &) Year, 1838-41… Department, Political … File No, 308 page No (153) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st August 1839
Letter No. 635-A, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India regarding concentration of troops at Sukkur and informing that he agreed with Mr. Ross Bell in his suggestions made on the subject. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (611-612) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
August 1839
Colonel Pottenger writes (letter No. 591) to Lieutenant Leckie, Assistant Resident at Hyderabad, regarding fuel depots on the Indus. Year, 1839…Miscellaneous. Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (647-652) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd September 1839
Government of India writes to Sir H. MacNaughton, Envoy and Minister at Cabool, directing him to communicate to the officers of trust and responsibility the orders of Government prohibiting them from sending copies of correspondence to their friends in England relative to the duties on which they were employed. Year, 1839-41… Miscellaneous. Department, Political … File No, 203 page No (69-71) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
5th October 1839
Letter, from Lieutenant Leckie to Lieutenant White Lock at Tatta, informing that he was unable to hire boats for conveying grain with the army as the boatmen refused to accept reduced pay. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (79-80) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th October 1839
Letter No. 707, from Colonel Pottenger to Government of India expressing his views regarding the seaport of Karachi and mentioning facts illustrative of the difficulty of introducing policy of British Government in Sind and submitting for information of His Lordship an English version of a memo. To address of the Ameers of Sind for subsidy to be paid by the Ameers towards the maintenance of the British Army in Sind. Year, 1838-40… Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (115-119) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
29-11-1839
Pottinger has written Eastwick on that no customs duties are to be levied on any goods (no matter who the owners are) going or coming by the Indus.”
29th October 1839
Letter, to Colonel Pottenger reporting theft of camels, from the Kafila under Surwarkhan Lohana; letter, dated 6th November 1839, to Captain Eastwisk, Assistant Political Agent, Upper Sind, informing that he had brought the above to the notice of the Ameers of Hyderabad and the latter had directed Takkee Shah, Governor of Shikarpur, to investigate the matters and bring the parties at fault to book; letter, dated 7th November 1839, to Colonel Pottenger informing that he brought the above facts to the notice of Meer Nur-Mohomed Khan who gave an enasive reply to him. Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (539-540) &) Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (541) &) Year, 1839… Department, Political … File No, 211 page No (543) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
January 1840
Colonel Henry Pottinger, troubled by ill health, and mortified by the rapid rise of his erstwhile subordinate Alexander Burnes and the reliance placed on him by the Governor-General, resignes and is replaced by Captain James Outram. Ross Bell, a Bengal civilian, is placed at the head of the new Upper Sind political agency. [Page/57“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
20th February 1840
Letter No. 351, from Government of Bombay to Government of India for orders on the letter from Lieutenant-General Sir John Keane reporting the arrangement made by him for breaking of the part of the army of Indus under the command of Major-General Wiltshire and distribution of the troops to remain in Upper Sind and Lower Sind; and requesting that as the junction of the two forces at that moment was premature both from a political and military point of view orders be issued for the command at Karachi to stand as it did, previous to the change ordered by His Excellency Lord Keane; letter, dated 2nd March 1840, from Government of India sanctioning the arrangements reported by Lord Keane and approving of the staff appointed for Sind Brigade under command of Brigadier Stevenson, &c.
Proposal of Lord Keane for establishing a permanent Cantonment for European troops at Karachi (vide letter of 20th February 1840) Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (141-144) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd March 1840
Letter, from Government of India to Government of Bombay informing that Governor-general agreed with the above proposal of Lord Keane and at the same time approved of the resolutions of Governor in Council that be held distinct, each by a Brigadier of second class, &c. Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (177-180) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th April 1840
Letter No. 166, from Major Outram and Political Agent, Sind, to Government of India relating to issue of permits for goods passing free of transit duty into British Cantonments in Sind. Year, 1838-40… Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (227-230) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th May 1840
Letter, from Major Outram, Political Agent, Lower Sind, to Government of India discussing the propriety of a toll- tax being levied by the Ameers on boats plying in the Indus, &c.; letter No 386, dated 22nd June 1840, Government of India to Political Agent, Lower Sind, in reply furnishing instructions.
25th May 1840
Letter, From Government of India to Captain Outram approving of his arrangements made in connection with the establishment of packet boats between Karachi and Sukkur.
17th August 1840
Letter, No. 562, from Government of India to Political Agent, Sind, informing him that the precautions taken by him in his letter quoted above to prevent the Ameers from being defrauded of their just dues were highly necessary. Year, 1838-40… Department, Political … File No, 287 page No (239-241) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th March 1841
Letter No. 346, from Government of Bombay to Envoy and Minister at Cabool informing that Governor in Council being apprised of the unsettled state of affairs at Heart and candhar had issued orders to Military Board directing them to send to Karachi the Ordinance and Military stores and to place them at the disposal of Political Agent, Lower Sind; letter No. 347 of even date forwarding copy of the above to Major Outram requesting him to receive charge of the above and supply them to the Envoy and Minister at Cabool when 1841, from Military Board to Government of Bombay reporting compliance of their order of 4th March 1841; letter, dated 19th April 1841 from Government of India to Government of Bombay informing that the advance season of the year had rendered it impracticable to convey heavy artillery through Bolan Pass and it was desirable that all siege Ordnance be stored at Sukkur till the arrival of proper season for transporting them; letter No. 480 of 19th April 1841, from Government of India to Major Outram forwarding him copy of the above for information. Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (257-258) &) Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (259-260) &) Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (261-262) &) Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (275-276) &) Year, 1839-46… Department, Political … File No, 224 page No (279) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
July 1841
An agreement is signed with Sher Mahomed of Meerpur after the settlement of the long-standing land dispute between the Meerpur and Hyderabad families. The treaty is similar to the one drawn up with Rustam Khan provides for the freedom of navigation in the Meerpur section of the Indus. Sher Mahomed had hoped to avoid the payment of a subsidy, but the British made Rs. 50,000 annually the price for guaranteeing him in his possessions. [Page/56“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
December 1841
Nur Mahomed of Hyderabad has died, and his heirs, Nasir Khan and Hussein Ali, are willing to give up their share of Shikarpur on certain specific terms: Shikarpur is still to be part of Sind, and the British are to govern it on behalf of the Ameers. February 14, 1842, and they are to remit a part of the subsidy equal to one-fifth more than the amount realized from the revenue, which is estimated by the Ameers to be Rs. 200,000 and by Captain Postans, who had surveyed the financial possibilities of the areas, as Rs. 117,000 annually. The British are to deduct two lakhs as tribute and given any excess to the Ameers. Both parties are to coin money without the other’s permission and the treaty is to be concluded between the two parties when a figure acceptable to both is determined as to the annual revenue of Shikarpur. [Page/65“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
21st Fabuary, 1842
Outram reports to the Governor-General that AMeer Nasir Khan of Hyderabad had been discovered in “treasonable” correspondence with Divan Sanwanmal, the Sikh governor of Multan. The letter, worded ambiguously, vaguely implied some previous understanding for joint action against the British. [Page/72“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
6th April 1842
Letter, from Meer Rustom Khan to Major Outram for restoration of the five villages given to Meer Alimurad Khan by Mr. Ross Bell or for permission to settle the question with Meer Alimurad Khan without interference of British Government; Year, 1839 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (323-325)
Letter, dated 26th April 1842, from Major Outram to Government of India transmitting papers relating to the above dispute; Year, 1839 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (55-66)
5th October, 1842
Napier writes from Sukkar that “these Princes do not appear to be acting loyally” and claimes that the Ameers were violating the fifth article of the treaty of 1832 by taxing not only their own subjects but those of Bahawalpur. [Page/73“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
30th May 1842
Letter of from Captain Kennedy to Major Outram, regarding the above dispute; Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (353-358)
Letter No. 127, dated 10th May 1842, from Government of India to Major Outram, declining to interfere with decision arrived at by Mr. Ross Bell, &c.; Year, 1839 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (397-399)
4th June, 1842
The Governor-General wishes to be informed, whether the territories under Meer Roostum Khan be in such a position as to make it easy to annex a portion thereof to the dominions of the Khan of Bhawulpore, whose dominions his Lordship is desirous of increasing, in reward for his uniform fidelity, and that of his ancestors. [Page/73“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
26th June, 1842
Outram writes Ellenborough that the district of Sabzalkot in the extreme northeast of Sind had been seized from Bahawalpur by the first generation of Talpurs, and that it now belonges not to a Khyrpore aMeer but to Nasir Khan of Hyderabad, the aMeer most guilty of behavior unfriendly to the British. The district is three hundred miles from Hyderabad; it is badly governed, and its transfer to Bahawalpur would punish Nasir Khan and put a welcome end to his pretensions to be raise. Outram also suggestes a scheme whereby the British could remit the tribute due to the Company in return for the cession of Karachi, Sukkur, Bukkur, and two adjacent islands. [Page/73“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
4th July 1842
Letter No. 16, from Captain Brown, Assistant Political Agent, Sind and Baluchistan, to Major Outram forwarding for transmission to Governor-General Copy of the plan of Bukkur together with a report thereon. Year, 1839-41… Department, Political Miscellaneous. … File No, 203 page No (79-87) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th July 1842
Letter, from Meer Rustom Khan to Lieutenant Brown, Assistant Political Agent informing him that Meer Ali murad Khan would not listen to his troops with hostile intent near Khyrpore to molest Meer Naseerkhan who is sick; Year, 1839 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (409-412)
Letter from Mr. Brown to Meer Alimurad Khan advising to remain quiet and assuring him that the case would be decided according to its merits; letter, dated 19th July 1842, from Meer Alimurad Khan to Lieutenant Brown requesting that his case be taken up by British Government and he would be willing to abide by their decision. Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (413-415) Year, 1838 … Department, Political … File No, 306 page No (429-432)
1st August 1842
Letter No. 2072, from Lieutenant Brown to Government of India reporting the death of Mr. Ross Bell; letter No. 2106, dated 3rd August 1842, to Government of India informing that a will had been found among the effects of Mr. Ross Bell and that Lieutenant Brown had been selected one of the six executors of his will. Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 204 Vol.I. Page No (87) &) Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 204 VoI.I. Page No (91) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th August, 1842
Nasir Khan of Hyderabad writes to his deputy at Shikarpur when ordering him not to allow boats from Bahawalpur, Mithankot, Shikarpur, and Sabzalkot to pass: You are well aware that revenues of Sinde depend chiefly upon the grain crops, and if it be allowed to be imported from all quarters, there will be no fixed price, and price will be uncommonly low, and from the cheapness of grain there will be a deficit in the revenue. [Page/74“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
9th September 1842
Letter from Meer Ali Murad Khan to Captain Brown, British Agent, complaining of Meer Naseer Khan’s conduct towards him; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (325-326)
11th September, 1842
Ellenborough, reversing his previous stand, decides to open the question of a new treaty with the Ameers of Sind. The justification for this course is the assumption that the Ameers were guilty of the various accusations against them. He orders Outram to place before Napier with “judicial accuracy” a statement of the instances when the Ameers had violated the terms of the treaties with the British, for he intended to punish any aMeer who had “evinced hostile designs” during the Afghan war. But, he adds, he “would not proceed on this course without ample and convincing evidence of the guilt of the person accused.” The Ameers, said Ellenborough, would have to make restitution for any infringements on the Indus and for any duties levied in the British cantonment at Karachi. He authorizes Napier to inform the Ameers that he is empowered to use force, if necessary, and that the Governor-General was willing to negotiate a new agreement, under the terms of which all tribute would be relinquished in return for the cession of certain areas. [Page/75“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
15th September 1842
Letter from Meer Naseer Khan to Captain Brown explaining his conduct; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (326-327)
17th September 1842
Letter from Meer Naseer Khan to Captain Brown informing that Meer Ali Murad Khan made an attack on their army without any provocation, &c., Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (327-328)
18th September 1842
Letter from Meer Rustom Khan to Captain Brown on the same subject, Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (328-329)
18th September 1842
Letter, from Meer Ali Murad to Captain Brown explaining the circumstances he was obliged to oppose Meers Naseer Khan and Rustom Khan.
19. - Jagheers of Meers Mohomed Khan and Ghulam Mustafa- Correspondence relating to- Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (330-332)
25th September 1842
The Ameers’ troubles were just beginning. Napier arrives at Hyderabad for the first time and is handsomely received. Ominously he notes that “possibly this may be the last independent reception they may give as princes to a British general”. [Page/73“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
28th September 1842
The Governor-General of India writes Sir Charles Napier.(Extract )of the letter is as under:
Your first political duty will be, to hear all that Major Outram, and the other Political Agents may have to allege against the Ameers of Hyderabad and Khyrpore, tending to prove the intention, on the part of any of them, to act hostilely against the British. Army.
That they may have had Hostile feelings there can be no doubt. It would be impossible to believe that they could entertain friendly feelings; but we should not be justified in inflicting punishment upon the thoughts.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 1]
8th October, 1842
The Governor-General of India writes Sir Charles Napier.(Extract )of the letter is as under:
IT appears that the assembling of men by Khyrpore Ameers was only for the settlement of a quarrel amongst themselves, and had nothing in it of hostility to us. The Sikh government acts in the most friendly manner, we have hitherto received from it.
There is,therefore, no longer any necessity for holding a considerable force together at Sukkur.The army marches from Cabool to-day, and the last column of Major-General England’s Troop will probably arrive to-day at Dadur.
Under these cirmcumtances, unless events should have occurred before you receive this letter, which lead you to suppose that a continued assemblage of a considerable body of troops will be required at Sukkur, beyond the force which it may be advisable to leave, for the present, for the occupation of that town and of the Island of Bukkur, I request that you will direct the 19th Bengal Native Infantry to return to Ferozepore.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 1]
8th October, 1842
Meer Ali Moorad Khan of Khyrpore writes to Sir Charles Napier text of letter is as under:
I was very much pleased when I heard of your arrival in this country ; God has been great in his kindness to such a wise and just man here as to you but I heard that a Lord arrived with you, and I did not know to whom I ought to write. Yesterday I sent my vakeel to sukkur, to inquire who come manded in Sinde ; he was returned, and given me the intelligence required, and now I write. Iam very much grieved that I should have delayed writing. So long; I have heard that you are always to remain in this country, at which Iam much pleased; I will always obey strictly the orders of Government, and trust you will always have cause to be pleased with me. I send Ali inform you how anxious Iam to meet you.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 2]
8th October, 1842
Sir Charles Napier replies to Meer Ali Moorad. The text of the letter is as under:
Iam much pleased to receive your Highness’ letter. Iam comer here to live in this country, and to take care that all the English people observe the Treaty between the Governor-General and their Highness the Ameers of Sinde, whom God prosper and make happy; and I am ordered by the Governor General to take especial care that all people do exactly observe the Treaty of Sinde and Beloochistan, that the friendship between the Governor-General and their Highness, because I know that you are a friend to my nation, and that we should know each other.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 2]
14th October, 1842
Outram prepared for Napier’s use his compilation of complaints against the Ameers of Upper and Lower Sind as requested by Ellenborough. He urges that a unified government once more be established in Lower Sind. But he points out that the Khyrpore Ameers had never relinquished their right to tax the commerce of their own subjects on the Indus. Outram once more advises the acquisition of Shikarpur as a defensive bastion and trade center. He suggested that the parts of Shikarpur belonging to the two Nasir khans and to Meer Rustom could justifiably be forfeited for their recent intrigues and that the remaining sharers who not implicated could be compensated. [Page/75“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
12th November, 1842
Outram intercepts a letter from Meer Rustam Khan to Maharajah Sher Singh of Lahore which intimates a similarly undeveloped plan. The matter did not rest here, for Nasir Khan of Hyderabad was charged with having written Bibarak Bugti, a semi-independent chief of Upper Sind, asking him for aid against the British; and Fateh Mahomed Ghori, Meer Rustam’s chief minister, is accused of helping a state prisoner, Mahomed Sharif, to escape to Baluchistan in order to raise an insurrection. [Page/72“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
22nd December, 1842
Inteligence from clibborn informs Napier that the Upper Sindh Ameers had moved with what forces they had in the direction of Hyderabad.
1st December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes to Ameers of Upper and lower Sinde.The text of the correspondence as under:
I have received the draft of Treaty between the Ameers of Khyrpore (and Hyderabad) and the British Government, signed by his Excellency the commands I have to present it to your Highnesses, for your Highnesses’ acceptation and guidance.
In obedience to the command of the commands of Governor-General of India, I shall proceed to occupy Roree, and the left band of the Indus, from the later town up to the Bhawalpore frontier, including the whole of the district of Bhoong Bhara and Subzalkote, as set forth in the said Treaty. The minor arrangements will be entered into by my aide-de-camp, Captain French (and Lieutenant Stanley), with those whom your Highnesses may appoint for that purpose, to the end that the Treaty may be speedily brought to a conclusion.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 2]
3rd December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes to Rustom Khan of Khyrpore. The text of the correspondence as under:
I Have sent my commissioner to wait upon you, and to agree upon the day and hour of ensuing week, on which your Highness will receive a new Treaty, which the Governor-General has ordered me to place in your hands, and to carry into immediate execution.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 3]
11th December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Ali Moorad. The text of the correspondence as under:
IT is said that you possess two villages in the territory which I am ordered by the Governor-General is reward them. But to arrange the details requires time.
You shall have all your rights secured to you; be confident in all I have said to your Highness.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 3]
11th December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes from Sukkur to Meer Rustom Khan of Khyrpore dislinking his way of dealing with him. Napier asks him to accept the Treaty proposed by him without fail and stop collecting troops in all direction.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 3]
18th December, 1842
Proclamation issued by Sir Charles Napier. The text of the correspondence as under:
The Governor-General of India has ordered me to take possession of the districts of Subzulkote and of Bhoong Bhara, and to re-annex the said districts to the territory of his Highness the Nawal of Bhawulpore, to whom they will immediately be made over, his Highness guaranteeing all contracts made between the Ameers and private indivisuals, not within the said districts, in such manner as shall be hereafter arranged in fulfilling the details of the Treaty.
It is hereby also made known, that if the Ameers collect any new tax upon that amount in arranging the new Treaty, and this amercement shall be enforced to a larger amount than the Ameers may have levied upon the people of the said districts.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 3]
18th December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier of to Meer Rustom Khan of Khyrpore.The text of the correspondence as under:
Highness,
My own belief is that, personally, you have ever been the friend of the English. But you are helpless among your ill-judging family. I send this by your brother, His Highness Ali Mirada; listen to his advice; trust yourself to his care; you are too old for war; and, if battle begins, how can I protect you? If you go with your brother, you may either remain with him, or I will send an escort for you to bring you to my camp, where you will be save. Follow my advice; it is that of our friend; why should I be your enemy? If I was, why should I take this trouble to save you? I think you will believe me, but do as you please.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 4]
18th December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes to Rustom Khan. The text of same as under:
Ameer,
My letters have been stopped near Khyrpore; this has been done either by your order, without your consent.
If by your order you’re guilty;if without your consent, you can not command people. In either case, I order you disband your armed followers instantly. I will to Khyrpore to see that this order is obeyed.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 4]
21st December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes to Ameer of Hyderabad, Naseer Khan and Meer Muhammad Khan.
The text of the letter as under:
I have to request that your Highnesses will protect our post coming thorough your country. Two of our males have been stopped in the territory of Khyrpore and I am going to enquire into this matter, and put a stop in such aggressions. Wherever my post are stopped, their will our march with my troops, and your Highnesses will have to pay the expense, if this happen within your territories. [Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 4]
23rd December, 1842
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Ali Moorad of Khyrpore that “I think your Highness will do well not assumed the Turban, for so many reasons. People will say that the English put it on your head, against the will of Meer Rustom---
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 6]
27th December, 1842
Napier writes to Ellen borough that “The Ameers put implicit faith in their deserts, and fell confident that we can not reach them. . . I made up my mind that, although war had not declared (nor it is necessary to declare it), I would at once march upon Imamgarh, and prove to the whole Jaipur family of both Khyrpore and Hyderabad, that neither, can protect them from the British Troops. [Page/90“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
1st January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier issues the proclamation from the Camp near Khyrpore and the text of Sind as under:
Ameers and people of Sinde,
His Highness the Ameer Rustom Khan send secret messenger to me to say, that he was in the hands of his family, and could not act as his feelings of friendship for the English Nation prompted him to do, and that if I would receive him he would escape and come to my camp. I insert His Highness that I would certainly receive him, but that my advice was for him to consult his brother the Ameer Ali Moorad Khan. He took my advice. He went to fort of Dejee to his brother. When I heard of this I was delayed, for I thought that Sinde would be tranquil; that His Highness would spend his last days in honour and in peace. I moved with my troops towards Khyrpore to force his violent family to disperse the wild bands that they had collected. I send his Highness the word that I should visit him; I wanted to ask advice as the arrangement for the new Treaty; I thought that he had again become the friend of the Government that I served. That night I heard that he had solely conferred upon his brother, the Ameer Ali Moorad, The Turban of Command or the Talpurs family, which brother is the hire to that honor. I thought this a very wise proceeding, and it added to my desire to meet His Highness, That I might hear promise his own lips all about these things, and report the same to the Governor-General, Being assured that these acts of His Highness would recover from him good onion friendship of Governor-General of India. My feelings toward His Highness those of friendship, honor, peace I even advices His Highness’ brother Amber Ali Mirada, not to accept the Turban, to assist his brother that chip, in the tear Government. I labored by honor of Taper Family. What then was my astonishment to find, that when I expected to meet the Amber the Ruston Khan, I heard that His Highness had departed from the roof of his brother; thus insulting and defying the Governor-General, whose commander I am. But my surprises greatly increase by here and that his Highness has joined his family with their armed bands, who have cut off our communications, and stopped our mails. These things have surprised, but my course is plain and I thus publish this to the country that all may know it, and conferred themselves accordingly. I will, according to the existing Treaty, protect the chief, Ameer Ali Moorad, in his rights, as the justly constituted chieftain of the Talpur family. God willing, I mean to March into the desert I will disperse the armed bands that have stopped my mails. I will place the Killadars of the chief, Ali Moorad, in command of every fort, and I will act towards the Ameers of Hyderabad as I shall find their conduct may deserve.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pp 6-7]
2nd January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Naseer Khan of Hyderabad. The text of the letter is as under:
Ameer,
I have received your letter. When a man’s actions and his words do not accord, I am greatly distressed to know how to act. The Government of Ameers is one of many heads; all speak and act after different and strange manner. I cannot judge after off. I came took her Khyrpore to see how matters stand, and I mean to go to Hyderabad to do the same. I cannot distinguish friends from enemy, at 200 miles distance; and as you say you are the friends of the Company and the Governor-General you will rejoice to see me. I hear of troops collecting in the south. Armored men shall not cross into Sinde; therefore I take troops.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 7]
2nd January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes a lengthy letter to Meer Rustom Khan ending with following lines:
“Ameer, I donot understand you’re double conduct. I hold you to your words and deeds; I no longer consider you to be the chief of the Talpurs, nor will I treat with you as such, nor with those who consider you to be the Rais.”
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pp 7-8]
5th January, 1843
Intelligence from Cibborn reveals that the force of more than 5,000 men has been collected under the leadership of Meer Rustom’s relatives at Dhinji, while 2000 more were supposedly with Meer Rustom Khan. Meer Ali Akbar, Rustom’s second son was raising a force at Shahgarah, yet the intelligence made it clear that these preparations were directed against Ali Murad and not against the British. [Page/91“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
7th January, 1843
Napier writes to Ellen borough that “ I only agreed to Meer Rustom being made easy as to his personal safety, but to no concession or submission could reinstate him in the Turban, which he had resigned and upon which I consider the tranquility of Scinde to depend. [Page/91“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
11th January, 1843
Inspire of having written to Ellenborough, that he would not but Napier orders to blow up Imamgarah Castle.
In his journal, Napier writes that “This castle was built and used for oppression and in future its ruins will shelter the slave instead of tyrant “.
[William Napier ,”Life and opinions of Sir Charles Napier”, Vol II, Pg 289.]
12th January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier from his Camp Imamgarah writes to Meer Ali Moorad apprising him of the reasons for blowing of the fort. He ends the letter with following lines:
“I had always considered the destruction of this fort to be matter essential to your security; and your Highness’ observation this morning confirmed my opinion. I have therefore resolved to destroy it, as a placed that can only be of used to rebels against your power”.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 8]
13th January, 1843
Meer Ali Moorad writes to Sir Charles Napier approving his action to destroy the fort.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 8]
13th January, 1843
Meer Rustom Khan writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him that his brother Meer Ali Moorad Khan has send a message claiming that the country at this side and all the fortresses in the Dessert have been given to him by the British. He makes the Sir Charles Napier to believe that he has always been under submission to the British and never have done but pleased Sir Charles Napier. He requests for allowing time for writing to his son Muhammad Hussain and get an order from him as Meer Ali Moorad’s men can go and can take the position of the forts.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pp 8-9]
14th January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier, from his Camp, Teejub writes to Meer Ali Moorad Khan informing him that
the Governor-General has ordered him to support His Highness’ Meer Ali Moorad Khan as a lawful possessor of the Turban.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 9]
15th January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier from his Camp of Imamgarah writes Meer Rustom Khan acknowledging his letters and asking him to be perfectly tranquil and also assure him that he will be treated with all due to respect.
[Correspondence related to SINDE.Pg 9]
15th January, 1843
Napier writes to the Ameers of Upper and lower Sindh asking them to depute their envoys to attend meeting at Khyrpore, to be held on 20.1.1943 to settle the terms of the treaty. He warns them that “if any Vakeel shall declare that he has not (full) powers, I will exclude him from the meeting and consider that him from the meeting and consider that his master refuses to treat and I will enter the territories of such AMeer with the troops under my orders and take possession of them in the name of the British Govt.
[Page/93“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
15th January, 1843
From his Camp at Imamgarah, Sir Charles Napier of Imamgarah writes to Meer Ali Murad assuring him that he will be secured and protected from any attempt to put him down. Hence, he must not think that the British Government will allow him to be harassed by any petty rebellion as he seems to fear.
[“Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.9-10]
17th January, 1843
From his Camp at Dejee, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier suggesting him to send Brown to Meer Rustam Khan, to bring him to you on your arrival at Choonki. Major Outram is trying to minimize doubts of Charles Napier about Meer Rustam Khan. Hence, his letter is not only lengthy one, but full of arguments in favor of Meer Rustam Khan.
[“Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.9-11]
17th January, 1843
From his Camp at Dejee, Major Outram writes to Meer Muhammad Hussain Khan, Meer Muhammad Khan and Meer Nasir Khan asking them to come personally to Khairpur; otherwise, send your Vakeels, intrusted with full powers to act, on your behalf, as matter relating to signing of proposed Treaty can be resolved accordingly.
[“Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.9-11]
18th January, 1843
From his Camp at Dejee, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier proposing some alterations in some Articles of initiated Treaty. He is of opinion that queen’s image on the coins of Sindh, will not be accepted by Meers.He also raise objection to the occupation of Thatta, also.
[“Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.9-12]
19th January, 1843
Indian Secret letters [No.12] reveals that Sir Charles Napier informed Ellenborough that fort of Imamgarah was full of gunpowder and grain, when actually the 10,000 pounds of powder found were old and caked and the supply of grain was small
[Lambrick: “Sir Charles Napier and Scinde”, Pg 112]
20th January, 1843
Napier orders for meeting between Outram and the envoys of all the Ameers of upper and lower Sindh to settle the terms of the treaty. He fixes 25th Jan 1843 as deadline for its conclusion.
[Page/93“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
20th January, 1843
From his Cam at Bookie, Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outran approving his alteration in Treaty with special reference to the occupation of Theta. He also shares his doubts and hopes about Meer Rustam Khan and others.
[“Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.9-13]
22nd January, 1843
Outram reports to Napier that all envoys from lower Sindh were present in Khairpu meeting of 20.1.1843, but not those of upper sindh.
[Page/98“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
Outram writes further that “I am positively sick, and doubtless you are tired, of these petty intrigues, - brother against brother, and son against father,- and sorry that we should be in any way the instruments to be worked upon by such blackguards; for, in whatever way act, we must play into the hands of one party or the other, unless we take the whole country to ourselves”.
[“ Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.9-14]
23rd January, 1843
From his camp at Pir Abu Bukkur, Sir Charles Napier writes letter to Major Outram that is full of his instructions and directives regarding dealing with Sindh Rulers and getting the Treaty signed.
[“ Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.17-18]
24th January, 1843
Outram requests Napier that he may kindly be allowed to go to Hyderabad as he can arrange any settlement between Napier and the chief of Hyderabad more speedily and satisfaction ally. He is of opinion that by going to Hyderabad, he should afford one more chance to Meers and prevent those Hyderabadi chief blotting and so adding to blotting and to embarrassments.
[Page/95“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
The letter of Major Outram is lengthy and contains details of proposed distribution of Revenue income and territories amongst Meers. Keeping in view the policy and strategy about dealing with Talpurs, Outram forms opinion that “ They cannot, and will not, starve, and have nowhere else to go to; we afford no opening now in India, as far as their employment as foreign mercenaries; and Afghanistan and Baluchistan are now desolated; they may be forced by dread of our power to succumb for a time, but they never can become reconciled to the degradation and privation they suffer at our hands, and will only be deterred from any organized outbreak by the presence of a large body of troops; but will fall to preserve the country from the rapine and disorder which will arise from so many discontented character being let loose on the country, unchecked, as they will be, by such a Government as Ali Moorad’s, or as any native chief could establish.”
[“Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pp.18-21]
26th January, 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier, doubting the integrity of Meer Ali Moorad in connection with avoiding meeting between Sir Charles Napier and Meer Rustom Khan.
[“ Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pg.21]
27th January, 1843
From his Camp Ali-ka-Tandoo, Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Sobdar Khan of Hyderabad. The text of the letter as under:
It is with great pleasure, I hear of your loyal and true conduct to the British Government, in sending your vakeel to Major Outram. I am also well pleased to hear that the other Ameers of Hyderabad have refused to join the Ameers of Khyrpore. I wish those Ameers would act in the same wise manner.
[“ Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pg.21]
27th January, 1843
Napier addresses a proclamation to the Ameers of upper sindh giving them until February 1st to send envoys to his headquarters. They shall be treated as friends until this date, but any Meer who shall not comply by the deadline would be treated as enemy. [Proclamation by Sir Charles Napier]
28th January, 1843
From Bellaree, Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram informing him that he has ordered his circular to be sent to today to the Ameers.
[“ Correspondence relative to Sinde”. Pg.22]
28th January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Ellenborough that the Khyrpore opposition to the treaty is based on the loss of territory to bhawalpur which they felt would bankrupt them. [Indian Secret Letters No.12, date 12.12.1843.encl. 35]
Jhon Jacob, the commander of the Scinde Irregular Horse, is sent with a detachment of 500 men to reconnoiter the Khyrpore AMeer’s positon at Kunhera, less than fifty miles from Hyderabad. He reports that the camp containers no more than 1,300 to 1,400 people.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” No. 449]
28th January, 1843
Meer Muhammad deputy meets Sir Charles Napier and assures him that his master- Meer Mohomad was friend to and Meer has no interest, beyond friendship
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” No. 40]
30th January, 1843
Emissionaries representing Nasir Khan, Meer Muhammad and Meer Shahdad Khan, fully empowered to sign the treaty, see Napier warns them that unless he has heard by the fifth of next that they have convinced the upper sindh Talpurs to meet outram at Hyderabad he will consider them his enemies. [Page/98“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
30th January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Nusseer Khan, and Meer Mahomed Khan, Shahdad Khan. The text of the letter as under:
Ameers,
I Am glad that you have at last send your deputies, because I was marching fast upon Hyderabad. Now, Iam your friend, and I have desired your deputies to return to Hyderabad, and I will order Major Outram to meet you there, that they the Treaty may be arranged quickly. I hope the Ameers of Khyrpore, Meer Rustom Khan, Nusseer Khan, and Meer Mahomed Khan, will go with your deputies to meet Major Outram at Hyderabad; if they do not, I will treat them as enemies.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 22]
30th January, 1843
From Beerja, Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram.The text of the letter is as under:
My dear Outram,
I have seen the Hyderabad deputies. I have ordered them to meet you there on the 6th of February; and you are to tell me directly, whether or not, they have brought the deputies of Meer Rustom and the others, with the prescribed powers. If they have, I wait the result of negotiations. If not, I march against them, as an enemy, on the 6th. I by no means feel authorized in granting this delay, but Iam willing to do all I can to save the mischief that will fall upon these Ameers, if they will not meet you.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 22]
31st January, 1843
Sir Charles Napier sends memorandum to the Vakeels of Hyderabad. The text of letter is as under:
I have received the deputies of the Ameers of Hyderabad, and have desired them to meet Major Outram at Hyderabad on the 6th of February. They have promised to take with them the Ameers of Khyrpore, and I will not commit any act of hostility against those Ameers, till I hear from Major Khyrpore do not proceed to Hyderabad, where they must be on the 6th February; and if the Ameers of Khyrpore do not dismiss their dismiss their soldiers, I will attack them. This is an extension of the time given by the proclamation, vise, and the 1st day of February. If I do not receive a letter from the deputies of Hyderabad on the 5th of February, I will march against Meer Rustom on the 6th.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 23]
31st January, 1843
From Khyrpore, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him that he has been anxiously waiting for his order and presumes that Charles Napier will wish the horse escort to join him. He also informs him that he has received from Ameers, in answer to his last summons.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 23]
31st January, 1843
Meer Rustom Khan wrote a letter to Major Outram that was received on the above-sited date. The text of the letter is as under:
As it would be in your recollection that I had promised to meet you at Khyrpore, and I wished to do so; but on account of my sons being at Khoogara having obliged me to proceed towards them, for preventing them from raising any disturbances. I had various hopes from the British Government and yourself, and Iam sure that if you look at friendship, and whatever you will do, it will be all right, as it is very surprising that the chieftainship has granted to Meer Ali Moorad Khan( who is my younger brother), and I have great hopes in you.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 23]
31st January, 1843
Meer Mohamod Khan wrote a letter to Major Outram that was received on the above-sited date, making complaint about the attitude and behavior of British officer as present in Sindh. He informs Major Outram that Sindh Government of the Meers is being deprived of territories and properties whereas we have remained faithful and discharged our duties to the British Government.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 24]
2nd February 1843
From Sukkur, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him that we all came in here yesterday morning and will leave for Thatta in a few days. Hence there will be delay in our communication and contact.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp. 24-25]
2nd February 1843
Meer Muhammad sends his deputy to Sir Charles Napier to assure his sincere friendship with the British.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.40]
4th February 1843
Meer Rustom Khan arrives at Hyderabad accompanied by his nephews Nasir Khan and Muhammad Khan for negotiations on the treaty with outram.
[Page/99“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
4th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram, showing his worries about the mis carriage of the mail and thinks that Meer Ali Moorad may have stopped it. He informs Outram that he will March to Moro on 16th instant. He also informs Major Outram that reports says that Meer Sobdar Khan has joined the others.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.25]
4th February 1843
Meer Muhammad Khan sends his deputy to Sir Charles Napier to reiterate his pledge about friendship with the British.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.40]
5th February 1843
From Noushera, Sir Charles Napier wirtes to Major Outram and the extract from the letter is as under:
I shall march tomorrow from village named Moro towards Hyderabad. I can not delay; the hot weather will be upon me. If they do not disperse their troops, they must suffer for it ; I shall therefore continue my march, and hope to hear form you immediately. I fear we have made a mistake in removing the meeting ti Hyderabad; it will delay proceedings.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.26]
5th February 1843
From Noushera, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him that Meer Rustom Khan’s party have gone to seek refuse with, and assistance from Sher Mohamad Meerpore; and it is likely they will assemble number of Balochi, and that the Meerpore man may join Rustom Khan, also some of the Hyderabad Ameers might do to so also.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.26]
5th February 1843
Charles Napier leaves Bhiria for Hyderabad
[Page/99“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
6th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram from Sudojee, 8 miles from Noushera, Asking him to inform the Ameers of two things: the one is that they must disperse their bands instantly; the other is, that if the Hyderabad Ameer allows these bands to be assembled in their territories I will treat them as enemies.
In another letter he asks Major Outram to inform Ameers of Khyrpore that is I have received orders from the Governor-General to disperse their troops. He also asks Major Outrams to inform the Ameers of Hyderabad, that to receive the Ameers of Khyrpore personally as relatives, and with the view to their reconciliation with the British Government
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.27]
7th February 1843
From Sehwan, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier telling him that he has learn nothing authentic as to the proceeding of the Ameers, Shall report on arrival at Hyderabad.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.28]
8th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram from Dowlutpore. The extract from is as under:
I have had a letter from Lord Ellenborough, warning me about the more aware of the necessity that you and myself. He perfectly approves the of blowing up Emaum Ghur, and thinks it will save bloodshed. I have written to let me offer a detailed arrangement. I expect an answer every day. I hope he will concede this, and I shall make a hard fight for it. I have sent you the light company of the 22nd, as a guard of honor and safety, though I do not apprehend any danger.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.28]
8th February 1843
Outram held conference with all the Ameers at Hyderabad negotiates on the treaty Ameers object continued advance by Napier on Hyderabad and replacement of Meer Rustom as Rais of Upper Sindh by Meer Ali Murad.
[Page/99“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
Outram does his best to make Napier halt. Therefore, today, he writes him that he expects no hostilities because the Ameer has apparently, not removed their woman from Hyderabad. He writes that he has promised that I will beg of you to halt Troops whenever this may meet you.
[Page/100“British Relation with Sindh/1799-1843”By Robert A. Huttenback]
8th February 1843
From Hyderabad, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing about his arrival at Hyderabad, and apprising him of his strategy regarding meeting with Meers and getting the Treaty signed.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.28-29]
10th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him about sending off Fitzgerald to Ameers. Moharem festival is ending today and Meers will be free to respond us accordingly, he also advices Sir Charles Napier that not to proceed very near to the capital, as it can cause instruct, and may make the Khairpur Ameers fly.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.30]
10th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier. The text of the letter is as under:
My dear Sir Charles,
I wrote you by cossid to-day and mentioned that, in anticipation of your wishes, I should send the “Satellite” up to Gopang (opposite Halla) and for the 22nd detachment. The detachment of the native infantry I of Her Majesty’s 40th in the “Syria”.
My last from you is dated the 6th, eight miles on this side of Nowshera, which I answered to-day by cossid.
Captain Miller, commanding the “Satellite” will dispatch this note to you from Gopang by cossid, should you not have arrived there (Halla).
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.31]
10th February 1843
From Sukkurunda, Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram. The text of the letter is as under:
My dear Outram,
Fitzgerald has just given me your letter; I have not lost a moment in sending off a cossid to say I will say I will halt to-morrow; tell the Ameers I do this at your request; I will not keep the cossid.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.31]
11th February 1843
Meer Rustom Khan Talpur writes to Sir Charles Napier. It is without date but it is received on the date cited above.
He makes the position of his son Meer Muhammad Hussain clear and assure Sir Charles Napier that his son is not busy in collecting an army at Koonhera.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.31-32]
11th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram advising him to tell that Ameers that their plea of not being able to control their armed Baloochis, is sufficient cause to any other Governnment to overturn theirs. The return of the Turban to Mir Rustom Khan is, now out of the question, there should not be delay in signing the Treaty.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.32-33]
11th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mohamed of Meerpore. The text of the letter is as under:
No hostility has to my knowledge been committed by you. There is no mention of your name in the Treaty, nor is there any intention of dispossessing you of any of your land, or doing anything displeasing to uou. The British Government makes war on its enemies, but not on its friends. With regard to the tribute, be so good as to make it over to Mr. Brown, who is now at Hyderabad. I hope you will not allow any of the Ameers of Khyrpore to have any troops within your territories.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.33]
11th February 1843
From Hyderabad, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him that the Ameers of Hyderabad has assured him that they have again sent orders for any armed bodies, that may remain united, to disperse to their homes. He blames Meer Ali Moorad for the false dealing and proposes that he should be assigned territory which belonged to the Meers of lower Sindh, in preference to throwing open the door to further clashing and quarrelling with his brother of upper Sindh, by assigning any portion of their lands to him, even if they could afford the loss could not be seprated without endless difficulty.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.33-34]
11th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier.The text of letter is as under:
My dear Sir Charles,
Here is Meer Rustom’s explaination & of the people at Kohera, regarding which I wrote you this morning. It appears that the followers are only the usual attendants for the protection of the women and families of all the Ameers, and many of the Balooch chiefs who live upon them, who fled from Khyrpore, Emaum Ghur, &c. ; and I think that they could hardly trust with less, all that they prize on earth, i.e., their woman and property. No Oriental family of any rank would have fewer armed attendants in Hindostan.
The vakeels from the upper sinde Ameers have just come to sign the Treaty, which I shall take Durbar for the Ameers’ seals to-morrow morning and then dispatch the treaties to you, unless I should, in the mean time, hear that you are coming here, in which case, it may be as well not to risk them.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.34]
12th February 1843
From Sukkurunda, Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram. The text of the letter is as under:
My dear Outram,
I received yours last night, and willingly give up the 11th to the Ameers. I had done so, not to hurry them, before I got your note. Iam exceedingly annoyed by two things that have happened : the one is, that a party of twenty-five Baloochees attempted to ride through Jacob’s camp, and he very properly made them prisoners ; but they refused either to give up their arms or to come to my camp ; I have therefore sent a squadron out to him to receive them, and am in hopes this large force will induce them not to resist. However, God knows. Two of the officers were also insulted by the armed Balochees of a village, and they are full of armed men; the Ameers must stop these things. I am going to imprison the Kardar, unless he gives me up the men who drew their swords upon the officers. If I hear to-morrow that the Ameers have all signed the Treaty, and acknowledged their obedience to the Turban, I will not approach nearer to Hyderabad than Sallara, as there I mean embark the troops for Kurachee in boats; but I can make no arrangements till the Ameers have signed the Treaty; I will not keep the cossid longer.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.35]
12th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram. The text of letter is as under:
My dear Outram,}
The twenty-five men I mentioned this morning struck their flag of defiance on seeing the squadron. They are all chiefs of the Murree tribes, headed by Hyat Khan Murree. The whole country is transvered by armed bodies, and the Ameers must put this right. The 2000 men at Koonhera are, I dare say, their attendants; to these alone I have no objection; but I have to the six guns, which, under existing circumstances, I insist upon their giving up to me. I will make a short march after to-morrow, but, of course, a good deal depends on what I hear from you. I think you may keep the original signed Treaty for a few days, lest any accident should happen; for the village are full of Baloochees armed; however, if you think it can be trusted, send it.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.35]
12th February 1843
From Hyderabad, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him about his going to Durbar to receive acceptance of Treaties. He doubts that if you (Sir Charles Napier) come beyond Halla, he fear Ameers will be impelled by their fears to assemble their rabble, with a view to defend themselves and their families, in the idea that we are determined to destroy them.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.35-36]
12th February 1843
Outram writes to Napier
as under:
These fools are in the utmost alarm in consequences of the continued progress of your troops towards Hyderabad, not withstanding their acceptance of the treaty which they hoped would have caused you to stop- If you come beyond Hala (if, so far) I fear that they will be impelled by their fears to assemble their rabble with a view to defend themselves and their families in the idea that we are determined to destroy them, not withstanding their submission.
On the evening of the same day he again wrote:
I wrote you this morning to say what to state of commotion they are in the city at your continued advance after the Ameers had subscribed to treaty ….I really wish I was empowered to tell them positively that you do not propose bringing the troops beyond Hala if so far-as it is I can only express to them my hope that you will not do so now that they have complied with all the terms …. I have great hope that you will have halted on receipt of my information that the Upper Scinde Ameers have also subscribed to the treaty.[outram Letters]
12th February 1843
From Hyderabad, Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him about subscribing of the Treaty. He expresses his anxiety about situation because of landing of the light company of the 22nd, and creating doubts amongst Ameers and chance of rendering themselves enemies, by assembling their followers.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.36]
12th February 1843
Major Outram writes letter to Sir Charles Napier mentioning the seizure of twenty-five Mari men. This may Kindly be noted that these people were subjects of Meer Muhammad Khan who objected this action of Jacob.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.43]
13th February 1843
Napier writes to Outram
as under:
I neither can nor will halt now. Their object is very clear and I will not be their dupe. I shall march to Hyderabad tomorrow and next to Halla and attack every body of armed men I meet…. If the treaty was not signed on 12th according to their promise of the 11th when the Ameers, knew that I had halted; there can remain no doubt of the fact that they have been using every trick to get over the Moharrun, as they have could no sooner collect their troops . . . If men die in consequence of my delay their blood must be justly charged to my account. [Robert A. Huttenback: “British Relation with Sind” pg 102]
13th February 1843
From Hyderabad Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier apprising him of the response of Ameers and worries of Meer Rustom Khan. He also reports that he and his stuff was under threat last night and it was plotted to murder him but it was prevented by the people escorting him.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.37-38]
13th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram directing him to tell Meer Muhammad that he must not choose to play game with us. Otherwise, he shall make up mind to take the consequences.He informs Outram that he is marching to Saeedabad tomorrow, and next day to Halla, and will attack everybody of armed men I meet.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.40]
13th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier. The extract of letter is as under:
My dear Sir Charles,
The Ameers have Sent to say that the Baloochees have become quite controllable; have taken an oath on the Koran to have [term] Yageo, unless Rustom is righted; refuse to obey them in any way. They beg me to leave soon as possible, and give the advice from pure friendship, &c. Aim told that immense numbers are flocking to the city, and find that all the sheep and bullocks have been driven off from his neighborhood, whether by order to starve us off, or by the Baloochees, I know not; but I have told the officers of the steamer to send to the other side of the river for supplies, to enable us to hold the Agency, if the Baloochees do attempt to bully, which of course I shall not quit.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.41]
13th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier apprising him of the deliberation there took between him and Nawab Muhammad Khan and Munshi Choithram, regarding restoration of status of Meer Rustom Khan and restoration of lands which had been made over from the upper sindh Ameers to Meer Ali Murad.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.41-43]
13th February 1843
Munshi Mahadjee brings a message from Meers to Major Outram that Meer Rustom Khan’s territory, which has been given over to Meer Ali Murad Khan should be restored, otherwise,Baloochees will no longer obey British commands.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.43]
13th February 1843
Major Outram to the Durbar, alluded to in the Notes of Conference on the 13th February apprising him of his reaction and response on the conditions-oriented message sent to him by Meers. He informs S.C Napier that he has warned the messenger that if he or his staff is attacked or injured, Meer will be personally responsible and answerable for that act.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.43]
14th February 1843
From Syadabad Sir Charles Napier writes to Major Outram. The text of the letter is as under:
My dear Outram,
I have yours of the 13th. The “Satellite” is at Halla. I send off ammunition to put on board immediately. Your people have thirty days’ provisions, but you had better quit the Residency, and get on the steamer, blessing I shall be with you by 17th, or early the 18th; as I am hurrying off your cartridges to Halla, I have not time to say more, and we are literally smothered with dust.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.43]
14th February 1843
Outram writes lieutenant colonel Boileau, the commanding of the 41st Regiment, enroute to Karachi telling him to halt wherever he was, because the General Napier may have need of him. He also writes and warns the officer commanding in Karachi.
Meer Shahdad Khan who offered to come and reside in British residency to insure Outram’s Safety, in sent letter by outram today that there is no need of to come and reside in British residency and if any of Meer Shahdad Khan’s men are found engaged in hostile action against the British , Meer Shahdad Khan will be held responsible
Outram also writes to the Hyderabad Darbar urging Ameers that they should not engage in any hostile actions against to British, for if the Khyrpore Ameers were determined to court their own destruction, the Hyderabad Darbar Shah convince them to return to their territory and not aid them if Hyderabad Ameers will do this, no harm will be fall them.[Outrams Letters]
At night time, the British Residency is attacked and is defended by Outram, E.J. Brown and other British officers. [Robert A. Huttenback: “British Relation with Sind” pg 103]
14th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier sharing his opinion about the conduct of Meers. He writes: “I believe that Ameers had not the least intention actually to commence hostilities and merely hoped to get Rustom’s party benefited by making appearance of ferment amongst their Baloochees.”
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.43-44]
14th February 1843
From Hyderabad, Major Outram to Lieutenant-Colonel Boileau, Commanding at Kurachee.
Sir,
I Have the honor to transmit the duplicate copy of a letter I have addressed to Lieutenant-Colonel Booth, commanding Her Majesty’s 41st Regiment, which I request you will forward toTatta, should the regiment not yet have marched from thence to Kuarachee. In that event I would recommend the regiment being detained at Kurachee, until the orders of Major General Sir Charles Napier are received.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.44]
14th February 1843
From Hyderabad, Major Outram to Lieutenant-Colonel Booth, commanding Her Majesty’s 41st Regiment.
Sir,
Hostilities being likely to occur, I have the honor to request you will halt Her Majesty’s 41st Regiment at Tatta, or if you have marched to Kurachee, to wait there until you receive Major-General Sir Charles Napier’s orders, or intimation form me that matters are amicably arranged.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.44]
14th February 1843
Major Outram to Hyderabad Ameers. The text of the letter is as under:
From messages I have received from your Highness, it would appear that Upper Sinde Ameers are determined to rush on destruction. If they are so foolish, tell them to go their own territory, that injury may not come upon you. If no hostility is shown to the British troops within the Hyderabad confines, I pledge myself no injury shall befall the Ameers of Hyderabad territory, or the Upper Sinde Ameers are aided in such acts by subjects of your Highnesses, although beyond the Hyderabad frontiers, I am sure the army will advance to the capital.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.44-45]
14th February 1843
Moonshee Mhandajee to Meer Sobadar’s Minister, Outrai. The text of letter is as under:
Your note I received, and informed Major Outram of contents,i.e., that the fat man[meaning Meer Nusseer Khan], having assembled all the Belooch Sirdars in a garden, and sworn them on the Koran, that any one that does not join (Nusseer Khan) to oppose the English, will be imprisoned; and that your people, whom you had called in from Kohera, and elsewhere, that should not join the enemies of British, have accordingly turned against your master(Meer Sobdar), and will no longer obey him; and that the Meer himself, if he also does not move out, will be murdered; but that he will not go out, and that will do his utmost to serve the British; but that if he, the Meer, suffers in consequences, it will be on Sirkar’s head, &c. To this Major Outram has told me to reply, that this excuse will be of no avail; that whatever his people do the Meer will be answerable for.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.45]
14th February 1843
Major Outram to Meer Shahdad Khan. The text of the letter of is as under:
Your Moonshee, Mhetaram, has brought your Highness’ message to this effect, “that you are the friend of the British, and, if it is my wish, will come personally to reside in the Agency for my protection ; and that your people shall not join in the approaching disturbance, and will not oppose the British, &c.” This I have understood, and this is my reply: That if your people behave as you say, no blame will fall upon your Highness; but, if a single follower of yours does join in hostilities against the English, the penalty will be yours; and, if any of your people are implicated, it cannot be concealed from me, for, depend upon it, I will make thorough investigation.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.45]
14th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier. The text of letter is as under:
My dear Sir Charles,
As our communications are not very safe just now, I send duplicates of this morning letters. I hope you will approve of this last attempt I have made to save the Lower Sinde Ameers at least, should the others determine on following a desperate course; otherwise they will, perhaps, advance to meet you at the head of large numbers of Baloochees, who may find favorable positions for annoying your line of march on passing by shikargarhs, and thorough jungles, and may try to cut up followers and foragers, and harass your camp at night; but that will be the extent of their oppositions : I should suppose they are not likely to give you the opportunity of licking them in fair field.
Be under no apprehension about us; we are now provisioned for a week, and , with our steam, could doubtless continue to supply ourselves, and we can hold our position here against any number of the enemy with 22nd light company, thorough another 100 men would render the communication with the steamer less harassing, should we be closely beleaguered.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.45]
15th February 1843
From Halla,Sir Charles Napier writes to Major OUtram and extract from the letter is as under:
I have this moment received yours of yesterday, as I reached this ground. Do not pledge yourself to anything whatever. I am in full march on Hyderabad, will make no peace with the Ameers. I will attack them instantly, whenever I come up to their troops. They need send no proposals. The time has passed, and I will not receive their messengers.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.46]
15th February 1843
To avoid another attack on the Residency, British defenders escape with some difficulty on the steamers “Plant” and “Satellite” suffering casualties of three dead and ten wounded and bring with them the Agency Records and some private property.[Goldsmid : “Major-General Sir F.J. James Outram”,Part I, Pg 320-323]
In spite of knowing the fact all the Ameers with the exception of Nasir Khan of Khyrpore have subscribed to treaty, yet he writes to outram
as under:
Do not pledge yourself to anything whatever. Iam in full march on Hyderabad and will make no peace with the Ameers. I will attack them instantly whenever I come up to their troops, they need send no proposals, the time has passed and I will not receive their messengers, there must be no pledge made on any account. [Robert A. Huttenback: “British Relation with Sind” pg 102]
15th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier defeats the combined forces of Hyderabad, Khyrpore and Meerpur.
16th February 1843
On the board the “Planet,” Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier informing him that Ameers are moving up to the Galiani and Meeani Shikargarhs. He doubts serious loss and proposes that to drop down in the steamers to fire both Shikargarhs, which can be done easily ftom the river under the steamers’ guns.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.46]
17th February 1843
Major Outram writes to Sir Charles Napier. The text of the letter is as under:
You directed me to send Dr. Gibbon on board the flat, to take charge of the sick of the force, supposing, I conclude, that there was no one else available; I forgot at the the time to mention that there is a young assistant surgeon(Styles) with the 22nd company, and as I suppose you would, if you had known this, have wished one of the two to keep with the steamers, which may look out for casualties to-morrow, I have detained Mr. Styles for the until I receive further orders, which can be sent in good time for Dr. Gibbon to join the force before you march to-morrow morning, should you wish it.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.47]
18th February 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mohamed .The text of the letter is as under:|
Syud Imambree, your deputy, came to me with a message from you, that your Highness is the friend of the British, and you did not march with your army beyond your own territory in this fight; therefore, I approve of your Highness’ message. And now it is necessary that you should disperse your troops you have with you, and so keep no one with you, and so keep no one with you(in the shape of any army); and if I find that your Highness has any collected, I shall attack them. If you disperse your troops, and keep no one with you, I shall reckon you just the same as before, - friend and ally of the British.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.47]
2nd March 1843
Letter No. 263, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier, Commanding Sind and Baluchistan, regarding re-enforcement of troops in Sind; letter No. 283, dated 6th March 1843, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier Commanding Sind, intimating that he had asked the Commander-in-Chief to send two regiments of infantry and one of artillery to Sukkur; letter No. 297, dated 8th March 1843, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier informing that 9th and 55th regiments had been ordered to proceed to Sukkur from Ferozepur and that he had ordered for six steamers with flats for carriage of troops; letter No. 315, dated 13th March 1843, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier expressing doubts of the ability of Bombay Government to send two regiments to Sind and intimating that Bombay Government had been requested to send coal, grapes, heavy guns, and mortars to Sind and asking him to call, if necessary on the Naval officers at Karachi to send guns with seamen to work there; letter No. 323, dated 15th March 1843, from Commanding Sind, informing that as a Native Regiment could not be sent from Bombay, 3 of Infantry and 4 Rissaldars would be sent to Sukkur from Ferozepur and making other arrangements for the dispatch of the army. Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 204 VoI.I. Page No (1-2) &) Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 204 VoI.I. Page No (5) &) Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 204 VoI.I. Page No (7-8) &) Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 204 VoI.I. Page No (11-12) &) Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 204 VoI.I. Page No (15-17) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd March 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mohamad Khan. The text of the letter is as under:
You worte to me, and said you had not joined in battle against the English. I believed you, and told you to disperse your troops, and that you would be safe. Had you done so, you would have been in no danger; but, instead of this, you are rallying the defeated Belaochees; you have increased the number of your troops; and unless you come to my camp at Hyderabad, and prove your innocence, I will march against you, and inflict a signal punishment upon you.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.48]
6th March 1843
Letter No. 284, from Governor-General of India to Sir Charles Napier approving of his plan of battle and stating that he had asked the Military Secretary to prepare an order relative to the course to be pursued by Prize Agents. Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (65) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th March 1843
Letter No. 285, from Governor-General of India to Sir Charless Napier relating to removal of obstructions to a portion of the waters of the Indus flower into sea near Lakhput. Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (81-82) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
6th March 1843
Letter No. 286, from Government-General to Sir Charles Napier relating to the retention of the territories on the Right Left Bank of the River Indus. Year, 1840-47… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (209-210) &)
6th March 1843
Letter No. 281, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier relating to the preparation of the map showing in different colures the territories belonging to several Ameers. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (213-214) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter from Lord Ellenbrought to Sir Charless Napier congratulating him on his victory gained in a well fought battle.
6th March 1843
Letter No. 280, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier requesting him for reasons stated therein to take upon himself the Government of the Province of Sind and to select such officers in whom he can confide. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (217) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
7th March 1843
Letter No. 292, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier furnishing him with instructions regarding disposal of booty captured by army in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (77-78) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
10th March 1843
Letter No. 301, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier relating to suppression of slave trade in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (243-44) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
11th March 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Jan Meheralli of Jockeya. The text of the letter is as under:
I have great cause to approve of your conduct, and have reported it to the Governor-General. I am very happy to be of use to your family; the young ladies shall go where they please; and four men of their own, with arms, shall, if they please, accompany them. God forbid that any woman should suffer indignity from me, or from any one under my command, whether such woman belong to a friend or to an enemy. Woman are always to be respected in war. I do not know where your ladies are, so you must write to them.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.48]
13th March 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to the Governor-General and extract of the letter is as under:
I had no prejudice against the Ameers; I certainly held their conduct as rulers to be insufferable by any strong Government, but as indivisuals I felt pity for them, as weak princes, whose folly had brought them into difficulties. It was this feeling that made me restore to them their swords, for assuredly I was not insensible to the honor it would be to the family of a private gentleman to possess the swords of so many princes surrendered to him on the field of battle; and I believe by all the rules and customs of war their swords were mine. This was an undoubted proof of my feelings then. Since then I have seen their real character developed, and I do think that such thorough villains I never met with in my life. Meer Sobdar is even worse than the others. He had 5000 men in the action; I doubted this at first, as he was not there in person.
Being now assured that your Lordship will occupy the country, I can act decidedly, and shall have cover for the troops very soon.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.48]
14th March 1843
Letter No. 320, forwarding a copy of the general orders, dated 13th March 1843, presenting to the Sind Horse the standard they from the enemy in battle of Meanee and informing that standards of the three colors of Military Ribbon of India inscribed with words “Hyderabad, 1843” in Persian, English and Hindi languages would be prepared for Sind Horse. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (9-10) &)
15th March 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Governor-General. The text of the letter is as under:
I Had scarcely sent my letter of the 13th, when intelligence reached me that 30000 men had assembeled under Meer Shere Mohamed. This I cannot understand; he has not much money, he has not much water, he has not much ammunition, and how he can assemble 30,000 men, I know not. But as this army, suddenly springing up, puzzles my calculation a little, I will take the safe side, and write to Ferozepore for the two regiments of the Native Infantry and company of artillery. I did wish, if possible, to save this expense.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.49]
18th March 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Ameers of Hyderabad. The text of the letter is as under:
I have received your letter this day. You must recollect that your intrigues with Meers Shere Mahomed give me a great deal to do. I am also much surprised by the falsehood which you tell. I will no longer bear this conduct; and if you give me any more trouble, by stating gross falsehoods, as you have done in your two letters, I will cast you into prison as you deserve. You are prisoners, and though I will not kill you, as you ordered your people to do to the English, I will put you in iron on board a ship. You must learn,Princes, that if prisoners conspire against those who have conqured them, they will find themselves in danger. Be quiet, or you will suffer the consequences of folly. Your friend, Meer Shere Mahomed, has prevented the letter from the Governor-General, as to your fate, from reaching me; his soldiers intercept the dawks. He is a very weak man, and will soon cause himself to be destroyed, and so will you, unless you submit more quietly to the fate which your own rash folly has brought upon you. I will answer no more of your letters, which are only repetitions of gross falsehoods that I will not submit to.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.49]
18th March 1843
Letter No. 343, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier forwarding copies of his order, dated 15th March 1843, expressing satisfaction on the services rendered in the battle of Meanee by several officers, non-commissioned officers and privates. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (217) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th March 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mohamed Khan of Meerpore. The text of the letter is as under:
I will make no terms with you, except unconditional surrender, and security for your person, as the other Ameers have received. We were at peace with you; we made no war with you; you have made unprovoked war upon us, and have cut off our dawks. If you do not surrender yourself a prisoner of war before the 23rd instant, I will march against you and give you battle
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.49]
20th March 1843
Letter No. 350, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier appointing Major-General Sampson, Second in Command to the Governor in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (153) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd March 1843
From Camp, From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mahomed Khan of Meerpore.The text of the letter is as under:
If the Ameer Meer Shere Mahomed chooses to meet me to-morrow, as I march to attack him at the head of the army; and if he will surrender himself a prisoner without any other conditions than that his life shall be safe, I will receive him. If Beloochee Cheifs choose to accompany him, I will receive them, on condition that they swear obedience to the Governor-General, and then they may return to their village with their followers, and all their rights and possessions shall be secured to them.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.49-50]
24th March 1843
From Dubba,four miles from Hyderabad,Sir Charles Napier to the Governor-General informing him about the battle of Dubba and defeat flee of Meer Shere Mohamed.
He also submits casuality roll of British army men killed and wounded in the action. He also inform Governor-General that the great promoter of the War,- Hosh Mohamed Seede is killed in this battle
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp.50-52]
26th March 1843
Sir Charles Napier defeats, Sher Muhammad of Meerpur, the only remaining chief.
28th March 1843
Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mohamed of Meerpore. The text of the letter is as under:
I Offer to you the same terms as before the battle; the same terms as those given to the other Ameers; what those terms will be I cannot tell you, because I have not yet received the orders of the Governor-General, but I am sure he will treat them generously; however, I promise to you your life, and that your family of women shallbe respected as those of the other Ameers. I advise you to surrender. There is no dishonor in being defeated in battle. To try and defend Omerkote is foolishness. I can batter it down in day, and destroy all within it.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 54]
4th April 1843
From Meerpore, Sir Charles Napier writes to Wallee Mohamed Khan, Chief of Chandia Tribe. The text of the letter is as under:
I Honor you for your obedience to the Ameers of Hyderabad. But God has decreed that they are to rule Sinde no more. The British Government is now master, serve it faithfully as you have done the Ameers, and honor and respect will be shown to you. But mind what I say. Keep your own side of the river. Woe to the mountain tribes that cross the Indus into Sinde.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 54]
7th April 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Shere Mohamed. The text of letter is as under:
IF you will give back to Aga Khan the plunder you took from Jerruck, and come in make your salaam to me, I will pardon, and be your friend, and your jagheers shall be respected.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 54]
11th April 1843
The Governor-General issues General orders declaring the defeat of Meer Shere Mohamed. He describes both the victories at Meenain and Dubba as an extra-ordinary achievements of the British army and directs the crops and permit them to bear the word “Hyderabad, 1843”, upon their appointments, standards, and colors.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.53]
12th April 1843
Letter No. 423, from Governor-General of India to Sir Charles Napier regarding arrangement for carriage of army and introduction of one uniform system for maintaining one commissariat for corps in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (85-87) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
15th April 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Jam of Jockeyas. The text of the letter is as under:
You have received the money of the British for taking charge of the dawk; you have betrayed your trust, and stopped the dawks; and you have also and they were your troops. All this I forgive you, because the Ameers were here, and they were your old masters. But the Ameers are now gone from Sinde for over. They defied the British power, and have paid the penalty of so doing. I, as the Governor of Sinde, am now your immediate master. If you come in and make your salaam, and promise fidelity to the British Government, I will restore your lands and former privileges, and the superintendence of the dawks. If you refuse, I will wait till the hot weather is gone past, and then I will carry fire and sword into your territory, and drive you and all belonging to you into the mountains: and if I catch you, I will hang you as a rebel. You have now your choice; choose.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 54]
15th April 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Mohamed Khan Talpoor. The text of the letter is as under:
I never quarrel with a good soldier. Come and make your salaam, serve the British Government, and be faithful; your jagheer shall be safe.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 55]
17th April 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Meer Mohamed Khan of Khyrpore. The text of the letter is as under:
I advise you to go to Ali Moorad, and remain with him till the pleasure of the Governor-General be known. I recommended to you to join the other Ameers at Bombay; but, till I have the authority of the Governor-General, I can promise nothing but personal security.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 55]
17th April 1843
Letter No. 443, from Lord Ellen rough to His Excellency Sir Charles Napier forwarding him a general order declaring that no demand would be made declaring that no demand world be made by British Government of any arrears of revenue due to the Ameers but that all revenue from that date would be payable British officers. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (25) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
18th April 1843
Letter No. 456, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier requesting him for preparation of a sketch of the last battle, &c. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (229) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
26th April 1843
Letter No. 645, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier giving instructions with regard to the accounts of receipts and desiring him to incorporate Sind accounts with those of Bengal from after 1st May 1843. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (209-216) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
28th April 1843
Letter, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier regarding disposal of bullion found in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (139) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
2nd May 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Shere Mohamed Khan. The text of the letter is as under:
In ten days I shall attack you with a larger army than I had on the 24th of March; troops will come upon you in all directions. I do not wish to kill either you or your people, and I advise you to submit in time to the will of the Governor-General; if not, take your fate. Your blood will be on your own hand.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 55]
2nd May 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Mohamed Khan Talpoor. The text of the letter is as under:
Come and make your salaam, and you shall receive from the English Government all you held under the Ameers; I will place the sword which you have sent me, again in your hands, that you may fight as bravely for my nation as you did against us when you served the Ameers.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg. 55]
6th May 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Shere Mohamed Khan. The text of the letter is as under:
You never disbanded your army, as I desired you to do.
You sent as most insolent letter to me by vakeels. You offered that if I would capitulate, you would let me quit the country; I gave your vakeels the only answer such a letter deserved, namely, that I would answer you with my canon. Soon after that, your brother sent to me a letter, offerings to assassinate you; I sent the letter to you. In my letter, I told you that you were a brave enemy, that I sent you the proposition of your brother, to put you on your guard. I did not say that “you were not an enemy.” If your Highness cannot read, you should get trusty people to read for you. Your Highness has broken treaties; you have made war without the slightest provovcation, and, before a fortnight passes, you shall be punished as you deserve. I will hunt you into the Desert, and into the mountains; if you wish to save yourself, you must surrender within five days.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pp. 55-56]
11th May 1843
From Hyderabad, Sir Charles Napier writes to Chief Ahmed Khan Lugharee. The text of the letter is as under:
I honor a brave soldier, but I have not authority to forgive you. You attacked the residency of a British Envoy, Outram. Your princes themselves accuse you. The Governor-General is in wrath at this insult offered to and yourself, prisoners. I must, therefore, appeal to the Governor-General, and will plead your cause with him. I hope to gain your pardon; but I will not pledge myself to anything which I may not be able to perform. If you come and reside here, I will receive you till his Lordship’s pleasure be known; and, if he refuses pardon, I will give you forty-eight hours to depart unmolested.
[“Correspondence Related to Scinde” Pg.56]
11th May 1843
Letter No. 544, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier requesting him for transmission to Bombay of captured guns at Cabool. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (267-269) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th May 1843
Letter No. 624, from Government of Bombay to Sir Charles Napier in connection with appointments of Deputy Collectors in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (283-285) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th May 1843
Letter No. 621, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier giving instructions as to how the debts of the ex-Ameers should be paid by British Government. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (367-368) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th June 1843
Letter No 655, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier relating to the re-opening of ancient connection between the Indus and Nara so as to make the latter flow to the District of Omerkote. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (359-360) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
Letter No. 670, from Governor-General of India to Sir Charles Napier informing that he asked the Commissary General to procure camels for the use of the army in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (95-96) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th June 1843
Jacob wins the day in an all but beloved-less victory over Sher Muhammad at Shahdadpur.
[Robert A. Huttenback: “British Relation with Sind” pg 102]
15th June 1843
Letter No. 234, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier authorizing him to raise a camel corps necessary for establishing and securing tranquility in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (319-320) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th June 1843
Letter No. 686, from Government of India to Governor of Sind intimating that his Lordship had decided that Meer Alimurad was to retain possession of all the lands before held in his own rights and to have all those attached to the “Turban” and communicating remarks on the subject of abolishing inland transit duties. Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (69)
28th June 1843
Letter from Sir Charles Napier, Governor of Sind, to Governor-General of India detailing principles he had laid down for the guidance of Captain Pope appointed to take charge of the conquered territory in the north of Sind; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (89-93)
28th June 1843
Letter, from Governor of Sind to Government of India reporting the instructions he had issued to Captain Pope in regard to the lands appertaining Khan, as well as those belonging to to Meer Rustom Khan which he had remarking on the legality of the transfer made by Meer Rustom Khan to the latter Chief; letter No. 260, dated 23rd July 1843, from Government of India to Governor of Sind approving generally of the orders which had been given to Captain Pope and communicating His Lordship’s sentiments and instructions on the subject of the lands to which Meer Alimurad was entitled; letter, dated 24th July 1843, from Governor of Sind to Government of India enclosing a transcript of the will of Meer Sohrab Khan Talpur, and suggesting the formation of a commission to determine the limits of the lands to which Alimurad was entitled. Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (89-93) Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (95-103) Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (107-110)
20th July 1843
Letter No. 239, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier forwarding extract paragraph of a letter of 3ed June 1843, from the Secret Committee asking for supply of copies of certain documents relating to the abdication of Meer Rustom Khan, &c. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (111) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd July 1843
Letter No. 260, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier conveying the Governor General’s views and sentiments in regard to the lands to which Meer Alimurad was entitled. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (77-83) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
23rd July 1843
Letter No. 260, from Governor-General of India to Governor of Sind making enquiries and asking for some papers required in connection with the alleged cession to His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan of lands held by Meer Rustomkhan; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (95-103)
25th June 1843
Letter No. 701, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier congratulating him or success of Lieutenant-Colonel Robert at Sehwan and on capture of Meer Sher Mohammed Khan’s brother. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (351) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
27th July 1843
Letter No. 258, from Government of India to Governor of Sind desiring him to furnish Government with a sketch of the country between Subzulkote and Rohri showing the several district possessions of ex-Ameers and their value and indicating also the several purgunahs, if any, belonging to Meer Alimurad and those attached to ‘Turbon’ so as to enable the Governor-General to decide at once what portions of the country intervening between those districts should be assigned to the Nawab of Bahawalpur; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (13)
29th July 1843
Letter No. 267, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier selecting Captain Young as Judge Advocate for Sind.
6th August 1843
Letter No. from Governor-General of India to Governor of Sind requesting him to represent to His Highness for reversion of the three forts to the Rajah of Jessulmere.
16. - Treaty between Honourable the Company and His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan.
Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (161-164)
8th August 1843
Letter No. 296, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier forwarding him a copy of the report from the Chemical Examiner on the specimen of Saltpeter manufactured in Lower Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (135-136) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
August 1843
Letter No. 298, from Governor-General of India to Governor of Sind forwarding his sentiments on his letters of 13th and 18th July relating to the transactions with the Ameers and Chiefs of Sind before and subsequent to the battle of Meanee. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (85-86) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th August 1843
Letter No. 305, from Lord Ellen borough to Sir Charles Napier relating to the appointment of Captain Baker and other officers in charge of survey operations in Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (33-34) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th August 1843
Letter from Governor of Sind to Governor-General of India forwarding copies of the correspondence on the subject and making remarks; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (138-143)
16th August 1843
Letter No. 316, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier forwarding him a copy of his letter No. 315 of even date to Governor-General’s Agent in Rajputana on subject of dispatch of a detachment or a portion of Jodhpur force to Omerkote. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (27) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
16th August 1843
letter, from Governor of Sind to Government of India acknowledging receipt of their letter of 23rd July and remarking on the transfer of the ‘Turban’ and the rights attached thereto by Meer Rustom Khan to Alimurad Khan; enclosing copy of Meer Rustom Khan’s enclosing copy of Meer Rustom Khan’s resignation of the ‘Turban’; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (70)
17th August 1843
letter No. 317, from Government of India to Governor of Sind stating the inference which the Governor-General had drawn from wording of the will of the late Ameer and directing that Captain Pope or Captain French if he had joined, Sheikh Ali Hussain, should form the Commission proposed by His Excellency; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (70)
21st August 1843
letter, from Governor of Sind to Government of India in compliance with the requisition contained in their letter of 27th July 1843; forwarding copy of a report from Captain Pope of the country lying between Subzulkote and Rohri; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (73)
26th August 1843
Letter No. 334, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier, Governor of Sind, forwarding for information and guidance copy of a dispatch from Honorable the Secret Committee relating to Prize property at Hyderabad. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (75) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
24th August 1843
Letter No. 574, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier conveying his remarks on the difference of opinion between the Commander-in-Chief and Governor on Sind respecting the mode of investing the conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel Mosely and others. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (193-197) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th August 1843
Letter No.328, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier regarding measures to be taken for prevention of smuggling of opium through Sind. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (171-172) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
25th August 1843
Letter No. 1224, from Government of India to Sir Charles Napier relative to suppression of all native mints in Sind as also to the prohibition of further coinage of Sind rupees. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I Page No (193-198) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
31st August 1843
letter, from Governor of Sind to Government of India in reply to their letter of 9th August 1843 stating that a copy of the writing in the Koran would be sent by Captain Pope; that enquiry was being made as to the rights of the Turban, and that Ameers assumed Jagheers at pleasure; also explaining how Meer Alimurad occupied all the lands in Northern Sind; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (80)
3rd September 1843
Letter No. 355, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier regarding appointment of Captain Tait as Resident at Khyrpore. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (111-112) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
3rd September 1843
Letter No. 356, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier relating to adoption of Bombay Customs House Regulations at Karachi. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI. Page No (119) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th September 1843
Letter No. 359, from Governor-General in Council to Sir Charles Napier informing him that one of the three guns captured after the battle of Meanee would be sent to England to be kept on the terrace at Windsor and the other two to be placed at the foot of the monument at Bombay and desiring him to send a fourth one which he would place in front of the Government House at Calcutta. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.I. Page No (379-380) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
9th September 1843
Letter No. 343, from Government of India to Government of Bombay intimating that orders had been issued for the relief of the Bombay army by the Bengal army. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.Page No (51) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
13th September 1843
Letter No. 376, from Government of India to Governor of Sind, acknowledging receipt of the preceding dispatch and forwarding copy of translation by the Foreign Secretary of the Turban, &c., to Meer Alimurad Khan;
Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (70)
13th September 1843
Letter No. 376 from Government of India to Government of Sind forwarding papers by which Meer Rustomkhan ceded the turban and lands, &c , to His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan.
15. There forts of Guttoorah, Shahgarh and Gursia in the desert.
Claims of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan over: - Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (144)
16th September 1843
Letter No. 137, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier forwarding him copies of despatches from Political Commissioner, Gujrat, and others regarding surrender of Khosa Chiefs on the border of Cutch and Thar.
18th September 1843
Letter No. 381, from Governor-General to Sir Charles Napier forwarding him a list of the corps ordered to be sent relieve the Bombay troops, &c. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoII. Page No (147) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
19th September 1843
letter No. 384, from Government of India to Governor of Sind conveying the observations and instructions regarding the eventual division of the country between Subzulkote and Rohri, the portions to the allotted by the British Government to the Nawab of Bahawalpur and Meer Alimurad Khan, respectively; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 201 page No (73)
8th October 1843
letter No.811, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Captain Pope, Collector of Sukkur, directing him to furnish Meer Alimurad Khan and Governor-General of India with the information he had on the question relating to his Highness’s claim to certain lands lying between Rohri and Subzalkote; Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 206
24th October 1843
Letter No. 102, from Captain Pope to Government of India transmitting information on the above question. Year, 1842-47 … Department, Political … File No, 206
15th March 1845
Letter No. 325, from Governor-General to His Excellency Sir Charles Napier giving him instructions to follow after the conquest. Year, 1843-44… Department, Political … File No, 200 VoI.II. Page No (17-19) //”Alphabetical Catalogue of the Contents of the Pre-mutiny Records of the Commissioner in Sindh”)
4th May 1845
Letter No. 92, from Governor of Sind to Governor-General submitting draft of a proposed treaty between the British Government and His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan Talpur; Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (176-177)
19th May 1845
Letter No. 108, from Governor of Sind to Governor-General submitting copies of a translation of a letter from His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan and of the Governor’s observations on it, in continuation of his letter, dated 4th May 1845, forwarding draft of a proposed treaty with Meer Ali Murad Khan; Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (189)
19th May 1845
Letter No. 1206, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Government of India forwarding a draft of a treaty between Honorable the East India Company and His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan a copy of His Highness’s letter with His Excellency’s observations thereon; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (189-191) Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (179-188)
20th May 1845
Letter, No. 109, from Governor of Sind, to Government of India forwarding for submission to the Governor-General copy of a letter from His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan to the Governor-General relative to the proposed treaty; Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (198)
22nd May 1845
Letter, No. 112,from Governor of Sind to Supreme Government enclosing translation of a letter from Meer Ali Murad Khan to the Governor-General and one from the same Chief to the address of the Governor of Sind soliciting certain modifications in the treaty proposed to be concluded with His Highness; Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (200)
24th October 1845
Letter, No. 396, from Government of India to Governor of Sind in reply to above communicating the remarks and observations of the Governor-General on the subject. Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (206-218)
3rd January 1846
President Breton at Swally Marine writes to the East India Company that through we have been frustrated because of great quantities of indigo, but cloth of Sindh afforded much better encouragement.
[Foster: “English Factories in India-1646-1650.” P.18]
21st January 1846
John Spiller reports to the Surat factors about the scarcity prevailing in the commercial and the trade community of Sindh.
[Foster: “English Factories in India-1646-1650.” P.18]
28th April 1846
Letter No. 40, from the Resident at Khyrpore regarding; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (341)
4th May 1846
Letter No. 1066, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Resident at Khyrpore directing him to call upon Meer Mohamed Khan to prove his right over lands he held in the time of Ex-Ameers; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (349)
5th May 1846
Letter No. 652, from Collector of Shikarpur to Government of Sind on the subject of various claims preferred by His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (341-342)
19th May 1846
Letter No.1218, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Collector of Shikarpur informing him that His Excellency was of opinion that all boundary questions be deferred until next cold season when the deputies would decide the questions on the spot; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (350)
19th May 1846
Letter, No59, from Governor of Sind to Government of India requesting for reasons mentioned therein written by His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan, protesting against the terms of the proposed treaty of 1845 between the British Government and His Highness; Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (203)
13th July 1846
Letter No. 1804, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Collector of Shikarpur directing that what was in Meer Mohomed Khan’s possession on 17th February 1843 should be restored to him; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (351)
24th August 1846
Letter No. 2198, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Resident Khyrpore on the above subject; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (353-354)
28th September 1846
Letter, No. 136 from Governor of Sind to Government of India forwarding copy of a letter from the Resident of Khyrpore, bringing to notice the solicitude of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan respecting the treaty between the British Government and His Highness; Year, 1849 … Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (204-205)
24th October 1846
Letter No. 396, from Government of India to Government of Sind making remarks on the above and asking for information on certain points before passing final orders on the question; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 pages No (193-198) Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (206-218)
18th January 1847
Letter from Sir Charles Napier to Governor-General of India submitting his reply to the above reference and stating that for reasons given therein he was of opinion that all lands held by Meer Ali Murad Khannorth of Rohri belonged to him by gift and those in the south of Rohri were His Highness’s by right;memorandum, drawn up by Commissioner in Sind, of npoints on which Captain Hardinge was requested to obtain information from His Excellency Sir Charles Napier relative to the proposed treaty with His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 pages No (218-228) Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (247-255)
18 February 1847
Letter No. 362, from Secretary to Government of Sind to Collector of Hyderabad, requesting him to wait upon the Ameer with a view to arranging with His Highness for an exchange of land adjoining Sadhuja in place of such scattered villages as may be inconveniently location in the Hyderabad Collectorate; Year, 1847-55… Department, Political … File No, 266 pages No (I)
20th February 1847
Letter No.122, from Collector of Hyderabad to Secretary to Government of Sind submitting his report on the above question and recommending for reasons stated therein that negotiations on the subject be dropped for the present and that the Ameer be informed that the terms proposed by him could not be accepted on the part of Government and that Government would be prepared to exchange land with him when on any other occasion His Highness felt inclined to re-open the question and offered more favorable terms. Year, 1847-55… Department, Political … File No, 266 page No (3-7)
22nd February 1847
Letter No. 420, from the Secretary to Government of Sind to Collector of Hyderabad informing that His Excellency would only exchange land on equal terms of produce, &c. Year, 1847-55… Department, Political … File No, 266 page No (9-10)
6. (A). - Boundary line between Hyderabad Collectorate and Khyrpore State-
10th April 1847
Memorandum, from His Excellency Sir Charles Napier to Resident at Khyrpore informing that he saw no reason to interfere with the affairs of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan whose subjects the petitioners were and for whose good conduct His Highness was responsible to British Government, *c; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (453-456)
26th August 1847
Letter No. 768, from Collector of Hyderabad to Commissioner in Sind regarding- Year, 52… Department, Political … File No, 266 A
27th January 1848
Letter in Persian, from His Highness Meer of Khyrpore to the Resident, Khyrpore, informing that the establishment of a Cantonment at Kandhkot and abolition of a bazar at Ghulamma would be inconvenient and prove injurious to the people, his subjects of those places, and requesting to be informed of the reason for taking the above measures; Year, 1848… Department, Political … File No, 292 page No (155-157)
27th January 1848
Letter No. 7 from the Resident to Government of Sind transmitting the above for necessary action; Year, 1848… Department, Political … File No, 292page No (153)
9th February 1848
Letter No.321, from Commissioner in Sind to Assistant Adjutant-General in Sind requesting to be informed when any modifications could be suggested in the above arrangements as the British Government could not occupy the posts without His Highness’s permission. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 292 page No (59)
14th February 1848
Letter No. 181, from the Assistant Adjutant-General to Commissioner in Sind explaining the reason for opening the Cantonment, &c., and required him to induce the Ameer to grant the required permission. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 292 page No (161-162)
1st March 1848
Letter No. 489, from Commissioner in Sind to Resident at Khairpoor transmitting copies of the letter from the Assistant Adjutant-General in Sind and requesting him to inform the Ameer that it was through oversight that he was not consulted and that the object in opening the post at Kandhkot was the maintenance of peace on the Frontier, an object in which both British Government and the Ameer were equally interested. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 292 page No (171-172)
28th May 1848
(b) Boundaries. - Letter, No. 119, from Collector of Shikarpur to Commissioner in Sind relating to boundaries of Meer Ali Murad Khan’s share in the District in Upper Sind; Year, 1848… Department, Political … File No, 291 page No (59-69)
8th July 1848
Letter, No. 166, from Collector of Shikarpur to Major Jacob, Commanding the Frontier, forwarding certain documents which would be useful to him in settling the question relating to boundaries of lands claimed by their Highnesses the Khan of Kelat and Khyrpore; Year, 1848… Department, Political … File No, 291 page No (115-118)
12th July 1848
Letter No. 167 to Commissioner in Sind on the above subject. Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 291 page No (120-122)
(c) Boundaries. – Settlement of Captain Dansey, on Special duty, in respect of the clain preferred by His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan on the northern boundary of the Hyderabad Collectorate, extending from Karie Bhit to Photah Durrah on the Jesulmere Frontier, 1857. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 203 page No (1-120)
(d) Boundaries. - Khyrpore State- Diary of proceedings of Capatain C.E. Dansey in arbitration of the claims of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan Talpur on the British possessions of deh Bolrah and Makkar Phool Wahan, held in Jagheer by Meer Mohomed Khan Talpoor. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 294 page No (1-200)
Record and definition by Captain Dansey on Special duty of the northern boundary of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan’s possessions. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 294 page No (201-338)
Record and definition of boundary claims preferred on behalf of the Khyrpore State by its accredited agent Diwan Mansing before Captain Dansey. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 294 page No (339-378)
Captain Dansey’s settlement of the claim made by His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan on the southern boundary of deh Trimoh and Char held in Jagheer by Meer Ahmed Khan Talpoor, A.D. 1857. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 294 page No (465-603)
Record and definition by Captain Dansey on special duty of the boundaries of British isolated possessions of dehs Kingri, Badhshapur and Rahoojah in His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan’s possessions of purgunnah Laddah Gagun. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 294 page No (465-603)
7- Frontier Outposts.-
26th July 1848
Letter No. 95, from Resident, Khyrpore State to Commissioner in Sind forwarding a copy of a letter from His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan showing how Meer Mohomed Khan’s Jagheers came into his possession &c; petition from Meer Mohomed Ali Khan and Meer Ali Mohomed Khan son of Meer Mubarak Khan Talpoors soliciting Government to make provision for their support. Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 pages No (357-358) Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 pages No (359-362) Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (398)
8th August 1848
Letter No. 3237, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind forwarding the petition for report; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (397-398)
25th November 1848
Letter No. 3182, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay forwarding a copy of a memorandum recorded by His Excellency the late Governor on a similar petition made by the above individuals which would place the Governor in Council in possession of Sir Charles Napier’s view case. Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (399-400)
Memorandum of February 1847 by His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan showing what estates be allowed to the sons of late Meer Rustom Khan and Bijar Khan, &c; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290
8th December 1848
Letter No. 5116, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind acknowledging receipt of his letter of 25th ultimo and desiring him to favour Government with his opinion on the subject of the reference made to him; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (413-414)
29th January 1849
Letter No. 1720, from Collector of Shikarpur to Commissioner in Sind re-claim of Meer Ali Murad Khan, Ruler of Khyrpore, over lands near Janidera. Year, 1845… Department, Political … File No, 276 page No (221-222)
8.Appointment of a Commission to investigate in the accusation against His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan of Khyrpore of having made interpolations and additions in the treaty of Noornihar between Meers Rustom Khan and Nassr Khan and himself,&c.
25th February 1849
Letter No. 49 from Governor of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind informing that with regard to affairs of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan, Ruler of Khyrpore, Government would not agree with him in his suggestion that His Highness should at once be pronounced guilty of the charge of forgery and that therefore a Committee was appointed composed of (I) Commissioner in Sind, (2) Major Jacob, Political Superintendent, Upper Sind Frontier, and (3) Major Lang, Political Agent, Kathiawar, to investigate the matter; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (145-146)
6th July 1849
Letter No. 1422, from Commissioner in Sind to Collector of Shikarpur requesting him to obtain information as to the approximate annual value of village of Dadloo and Purgunahs of Mathelo Meerpur, and Meherkee held by His Highness in right of cession made to him by Meer Naseer Khan, distinguishing in the case of Mathela, the revenue of the village from that of the Purgunah of that name; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (151)
16th July 1849
Letter No. 379, from Collector of Shikarpur supplying the above information; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (153-154)
24th July 1849
Letter No. 1511, from Commissioner in Sind asking for further information in connection with Purgunahs of Meerpur and Meherkee; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, A page No (159)
31st July 1849
Letter No. 440, from the Collector supplying the information; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (181-184)
21st September 1849
Letter from Sir Charles Napier showing his recollections on the question. Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (255-260)
17.- Memorandum by Captain Brown, Secretary to Government of Sind, on British entering Sind in 1838, and on Rulers of Upper-Sind, three brothers Meer Rustom Khan, Mubarak Khan and Ali Murad Khan.
18. - Dispute between Meer Ali Murad Khan and Meers Rustom Khan and Nuseer Khan on certain villages. Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (275-279)
3rd October 1849
Correspondence ending with letter No. 1905, from Commissioner in Sind to Governor of Bombay submitting a full report on the several points mentioned in the above letter and recommending for reasons stated that the petitioners be removed from the protection of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan and that an annual assignment of Rs. 20,000 would be sufficient for their maintenance and that the Khyrpore State be located in any part of Hyderabad district, &c; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (419-427)
30th October 1849
Letter No. 330, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind asking for further information on the subject; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (457-459)
8th November 1849
Letter No, 2174, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay furnishing the information called for and showing how he noticed the deficiency in kindness and liberality in the general treatment accorded by His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan to the sons of ex-Ameers; Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (459-463)
4th December 1849
Letter No. 356, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind directing him to induce His Highness when he visited Khyrpore at the time of annual tour, to make up the income of the children of the ex-Ameers and should he fail to secure better treatment for them His Highness he should at once rep ort the result to Government to enable them to take suitable action in the matter. Year, 1849… Department, Political … File No, 290 page No (464-468)
25th February 1850
Letter No. 49, to the address of Commissioner in Sind; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (1-144)
11th March 1850
Letter No. 119, from Collector of Shikarpur to Commissioner in Sind informing that he was successful in persuading His Highness Meer Ali Murad in retaining a portion of the animal he presented to His excellency Governor-General and suggesting that the saddles and gear be sent to Karachi and sold; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 68 page No (33-36)
16th March 1850
Letter No. 528, from Commissioner in Sind to Collector of Shikarpur accepting the above suggestion and requesting him to forward the horse and the camel presented by His Highness to Collector of Hyderabad; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 68 page No (37)
16th March 1850
Letter No. 531, forwarding copy of the above for information; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 68page No (39-40)
8th April 1850
Letter, from Commissioner in Sind to His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan informing him that Government have appointed a Commission with the Commissioner as President to investigate the matter of certain interpolations made in the treaty of Noornihar by His Highness and requesting him to furnish explanation upon the subject as a preliminary to the further proceedings; Letter from His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan to Commissioner in Sind expressing his surprise and indignation at the charge preferred against him which he denied and enquiring whether arrangements made by Sir Charles Napier in the settlement of affairs would be continued and informing that on receipt of reply he would enter into further correspondence on the matter; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (181-184)
15th April 1850
Letter, from Commissioner in Sind to His Highness acquainting him of his arrival at Sukkur and stating that no other matter except the one mentioned in the Commissioner’s first letter would be enquired into and requesting him that he would appoint a day for commencing the proceedings, &c.; letter from His Highness to Commissioner in Sind informing that he would visit Sukkur in person but he would require a previous notice; correspondence ending with Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (185-188)
19th April 1850
Letter from Commissioner in Sind informing His Higness that the Commissioner would meet on 20th idem and that they would be ready to receive evidence of any witness His Highness wished to bring in his defence; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (199-200)
Letter from His Highness to Commissioner in Sind informing that he had several witnesses of respectability whom he would bring on the appointed day proceedings of the Commission assembled at Sukkur agreeably to the instructions conveyed in Government. Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (203)
1st May 1850
Letter, from His Highness to Commissioner in Sind forwarding a copy of a letter written by Meer Mohomed Hassan and Meer Naseer Khan to Meer Rustom Khan advising him not to proceed to Khyrpore; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (233-235)
2nd May 1850
Letter from His Highness to Commissioner in Sind complaining that Government should have thought fit to listen to his enemies, &c.; Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (245)
8th May 1850
Letter No, 840, from Commissioner in Sind to Governor and President in Council, Bombay, transmitting the proceedings of the Commission with his opinion on the subject. Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 334 page No (245)
9th May 1850
Letter from Commissioner in Sind to His Highness informing him that the conduct of the relations of British Government with him had been entrusted to Collector of Shikarpur who would give every attention to any representation from His Highness and that his request for a Resident stationed at Khyrpore would be borne in mind when a suitable opportunity occurred.
11- Compresentation for stolen property.
Representation made to His Highness Meer Ali Murad in the matter of demand made upon British subjects for compensation for stolen property recovered by his officials;
Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 232 page No (344)
6th June 1850
Letter No. 378, from Collector of Hyderabad to Commissioner in Sind informing that he was able to dispose of the things for value of Rs.2975. Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 68 page No (43-44)
9. - H. H. Meer Ali Murad Khan.
His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan’s case: Commission of enquiry into alleged frauds commission by-in Naushahro treaty; Year, 1851-56… Department, Political … File No, 234
20th November 1850
Letter No. 498, from Collector of Shikarpur to Commissioner in Sind submitting for instructions a copy of a letter from Lieutenant Younghusband complaining of a practice obtainable in the Khyrpore State where the State officials levied one fourth from the proprietor of the stolen property recovered;Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 232 page No (1-2)
26th November 1850
Letter No. 1942, from Commissioner in Sind to Collector of Shikarpur desising, for reason stated therein, that representation be made to His Highness inducing him to forego the demand of any compensation from the British subjects in such cases as to permit them to be adjudicated by British Officers.
12. - His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan of Khyrpore petitions to Commissionner in Sind by Shaikh Ali Hassan ex Minister making certain charges against-Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 232 page No (7-8)
1st September 1851
Letter No. 1771, from Commissioner in Sind to Collector of Shikarpur asking him to call upon Shaikh Ali Hassan to explain what was the claim of British Government on His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan for an annual revenue of ten or twelve lakhs of rupees, &c; Year, 1851… Department, Political … File No, 247 page No (131-132)
Letter No. 1772, of even date from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay transmitting copies of the above; Year, 1851… Department, Political … File No, 247 page No (133)
27th September 1851
Letter No. 674, and its accompaniments from Collector of Shikarpur to Commissioner in Sind submitting his reply; Year, 1851… Department, Political … File No, 247 page No (135-136)
12th October 1851
Letter No.2135, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay submitting copies of the above and commenting on the right of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan to more than his patrimonial share and the share appertaining to the Raisshipe and asking for orders of Government on the question. Year, 1851… Department, Political … File No, 247 page No (201-204)
13. - Revenue and charge of the Districts resumed from His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan.
26th December 1851
Letter No. 79 from Government of India furnishing detailed instructions for enforcement of their orders degrading him from rank of rais and transferring all his lands and territories, excepting those hereditary possessions; which were allotted to him by his father, to British Empire in India. Year, 1851-56… Department, Political … File No, 234 page No (205-212)
10. - Appointment of Political Resident.
Letter from His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan of Khyrpore to Commissioner in Sind asking for appointment of one of the two officers (Mr. Inverarity and Captain Leister) as Resident at Khyrpore;Year, 1850… Department, Political … File No, 232 page No (343-344)
27th January 1853
Letter No. 24, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind for supply of information relative to the amount of revenue derivable from-; Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (1)
5th February 1853
Letter No. 261, of from Commissioner in Sind to all Collectors for supply of the above information; Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (3)
5th April 1853
Letter No. 118, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay submitting with remarks copies of returns received from District Officers; Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (29-31)
23rd May 1853
Letter No. 2214, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind requesting him to furnish a statement showing annual revenue serived from the accession of the territories by recent transactions with His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan; Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (119)
28th June 1853
Letter No. 327, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay furnishing the above; Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (175-178)
15th September 1853
Letter No. 4042, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind asking him to explain certain discrepancies in the figures supplied in the two references referred to above; Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (179-181)
14th January 1854
Correspondence ending with letter No. 12, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay complying with Government request. Year, 1853-59… Department, Political … File No, 296 page No (205-206)
14. - State matters.
20th November 1856
Letter, from His Highness to the Chairman, Court of Directors, Honourable East India Company, stating that as suggested by him he had sent his wishes in writing and requesting that the differences which had arisen between him British Government be settled and justice done to him. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (242-243)
7th January 1857
Despatch No. 3, from the Court of Directors to Government of India directing that the measure by which His Highness Meer Ali Murad was deprived of the rank and of a judicial investigation in which he had opportunity of defending himself and that the decision so passed was final; Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (241-242)
16th February1857
Letter, from Colonel Pope to Government of Bombay informing that the statement which appeared in an English paper of the circumstances under which he was deceived by His Highness who obtained possession of the Purgunnah of Mathelo in Upper Sind, was entirely erroneous so far he was concerned in the affair and that he asked for permission of Government to contradict it. But before doing so he requested that it should be ascertained from the records whether he did not, while Collector of Sukkur, collect and bring to account there revenues of the Purgunnah of Mathelo and whether any particular report from him on that subject was on the records. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (211-215)
4th March 1857
Letter No. 1031, from Government of India to Government of Bombay forwarding a copy of the above and requesting for transmission of Government of India’s letter No. 1030 of even date to His Highness; Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (241)
21st March 1857
Letter No. 1186, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind forwarding copies of the above for record in his office. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (239-240)
25th April 1857
Letter No. 175, from Collector, Upper Sind, to Commissioner in Sind submitting copies of references addressed by Colonel Pope which might explain the views entertained by him on the claims advanced by His Highness; Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (217-219)
10th September 1857
Secret letter No. 1847 from the Honourable the Secret Committee to His Excellency the Governor in Council transmitting (I) a copy of a telegram from His Majesty’s Minister at Vienna informing that Mr. Coffey, the conductor of His Highness the Meer, who was embarking at Trieste for India stated that the prince was angry at the neglect of his claim and that it was likely that he would join whichever side appeared to him strongest, (2) letter dated August 1857, from Court of Directors to the address of His Highness informing that the proper course for him was to return to his country and to manifest his zeal and fidelity in the service of British Government under the protection and guidance of Commissioner in Sind and that his case would be favorably considered when any such reports were received from the Commissioner. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (275-276)
1st November 1857
Letter from from His Highness the Meer of Khyrpore to Commissioner in Sind acknowledging receipt of his letter and expressing his loyalty for the British Government and desire to serve Government whenever required;letter No .421, 17th November 1857, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay transmitting copy of the above for information; letter No. 3080, dated 2nd December 1857, from Government of Bombay to Commissioner in Sind directing that His Highness might be informed that his letter expressing his fidelity to Government would be forwarded to the Honorable the Secret Committee. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (283-284)
9. - Present made to and received from Chiefs.
6th February 1858
Letter No. 94, from Commissioner in Sind to Government of Bombay submitting the information he succeeded in obtaining on the subject referred to-Visit of His Highness Meer Ali Murad to England and return of His Highness to Khyrpore. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (233-235)
Result of- Petition of His Highness Meer Ali Murad Khan to the Queen’s Most Excellent Majesty for the restoration of the rank of Rais and of a portion of his territory. Year, 1857… Department, Political … File No, 305 page No (242-243)
