From the secretary to the government op india, foreign department to the resident in kashmir

14. Nizam-ul-Mulk since his occupation of Chitral has shown by all his acts that he meant to be guided by our advice. Not a man has been killed, even those whose treachery to himself and his brother was the blackest. He is not a strong man and he is not a very wise once, as the reported hoarding of the small amount of treasure said to have fallen into his hands shows he is not at present firmly seated or very popular; but I believe that given our moral support and the Amir's interference being prevented, he will consolidate his power. The Chitral are not a fighting race like the Pathans, and they will, I think, very soon, if properly managed, settle down and thoroughly accept Nizam-ul-Mulk's rule as they did his fathers. I trust and believe that by ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ...................
K.F.

D. No. 128F.

No. 784, dated Sialkot, the 27^th February 1893,

From - Lieutenant-Colonel D. W. K. Barr, Officiating Resident in Kashmir,

To - The Secretary to the Government of India, Foreign Department

In continuation of my letter No. 783 of today's date, I have the honour to forward for the information of the Government of India; copy of a letter No. , dated the 14^th January 1893, and of its enclosure, received from the British Agent at Gilgit, relative to the advance of the mission to Chitral under Surgeon-Major Robertson C.S.I., and the arrangements made for supplies, &c.

______________

No. , dated the 14^th January 1893.

From - The British Agent at Gilgit,

To - The Resident in Kashmir.

I have the honour to report that the Chitral Mission reached Roshan on the 8^th January, and was to march from that place on the 10^th.

2. Muhammad Wali Khan has done his best to find carriage and to make satisfactory arrangements for the subsistence of the mission as far as the Shandur, and fair rates, as agreed to between Mr. Robertson and himself rare being paid for all carriage and supplies.

3. Mr. Robertson [has decided that Muhammad Wali should^ remain in the Yasin district and not accompany him to Chitral. He will, however, go with Mr. Robertson as far as Ghizr, the last inhabited place in the Gilgit river valley, returning from that place.

4. The support of one hundred, and fifty rifles under Major Daniell, Q.O. Corps of Guides, reached Roshan yesterday and. should be in Gupis today.

5. I attach, for your information, extract from the Chitral Mission official diary furnished to me by Mr. Robertson.

___________

Copy of extract from Chitral Mission official diary, dated the 9^th January1983

12. In an interview at mid-day, with Mr. Robertson, Muhammad Wali agreed to withdraw Rustam Ali from Ishkuman, and to appoint no other man in any position of authority in the Ishkuman valley, until final arrangements had been made in Chitral for the management of the Warshagam country.

13. Muhammad Wali Khan has been promised that he shall receive all orders direct from British officers, and that no one shall be appointed over him. This promise was asked for from Muhammad Wali Khan's jealousy of Raja Khushwakt Khan.

15. Muhammad Wali Khan was informed about the force, which is to be stationed at Gupis. He was a little anxious to know how long it was to remain. He was told it would remain at Gupis until the mission returned from Chitral. He was further assured that the Gupis force will be self supporting but would be willing to buy supplies if any where available at the same rates as were give by the Chitral Mission. There would be no forced sales and no forced coolie labour.

16. ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ................... ...................
[Demi-official.]

No. 892 D.-O., dated Sialkot, the 7th March-1893.

From - Lieutenant - Colonel, D.W.K. Barr, Offg. 'Resident in Kashmir,

To - Sir H.M. Durand, K.C.I.E., C.S.I.

I enclose herewith copies of two demi-official letters Nos. 286 R. and 329 R., dated, respectively, the and 27^th January 1893, with their enclosures, in original, received from your brother, forwarded By him to elucidate the official diaries of the Chitral Mission which are being sent to you officially by this post.

__________

[demi-official.]

No. 286 R.-D. O., dated Gilgit, the January 1893.

From—Lieutenant-Colonel A. G. Durand, C.B. British Agent at Gilgit.

It has struck me that Robertson's demi-official letters are of such importance in elucidating the official diary, extracts from which, as he sends them, I forward to you officially, that I send you herewith en bloc, for the information of yourself and the Foreign Secretary, his letters received up to date.

The position is a curious one and will need all Robertson's tact to bring about a satisfactory conclusion.

It is evident that there are really four parties in the State: Slier Afzal's, strong from Barnas to Chitral; Nizam-ul-Mulk's in inferior strength there, but I think strong in Turikho Murikho, and possibly in small numbers in the "Warshagam district; the Kushwakht party very strong in Warshagam and down to Barnas, the old limit of the Kushwakht kingdom; and the fourth party strong in the Ghizr district, and possibly as far as Mastuj, who are turning to us.

In all parts our influence is very strong, and I have no doubt, but that were we to proclaim at once^: and openly our intention of remaining in the country and governing it as we do Hunza and Nagar, through the rulers the people approve of we should be completely masters of the country.

It is daily more evident that the strength Nizam-ul-Mulk drew from coming from Gilgit was enough to decide matters in his favour, but also I am afraid that it is only our influence which, for a moment, keeps the country together, and prevents civil war. We hold it in our hand if we are not afraid of the responsibility.

Robertson mentions, as you will see, the possibility of trouble in Chitral. I have worked out my plans in case mission should be attacked, but I trust there is not any real danger of this. Nizam is a fool like his brother before him, but he is unfortunately a weak fool, and the people know it by this time. He has some good men though Wafadar Khan, the brother of Wazir Inayat Khan - and of course his deadly enemy and others, and they have nothing but death now to expect from Sher Afzal, so I look to them to keep a sharp look-out, and to help Robertson from the strongest of all motives, self-interest.

______________

No. 1, dated Camp Gakuch, the 7^th January 1893.

From - G.S. Robertson, Esq. C.S.I. in Command Chitral Mission,

To - Lieutenant Colonel, A.G. Durand, G.B.

.....................

...........................

troubles he has gone through have depressed him so much that he exaggerates the difficulties of the position, and that affairs are not so black as he paints them; otherwise our chances of making a thoroughly successful arrangement with Nizam-ul-Mulk are decidedly problematical.

Nizam so far has shown no signs of strength of will, nor any manly determination to cope with his enemies. He is simply doing nothing except issuing a few half-hearted orders which no one takes seriously.

The majority of the Chitral people seem to be thoroughly disloyal to him, while his staunch adherents such as Wafadar Khan, are more intent on settling private quarrels than in working seriously for the success of their cause.

This is undoubtedly disheartening, but I console myself with the idea that we are now hearing the worst which can be said, and that the depressed feelings of the Jemadar and Inayat Khan may not be justified by facts. Otherwise the situation in Chitral resolves itself into this and either, we must acquiesce in the country becoming a province of the Amir of Kabul, who foiled at Asmar will be able to pursue his ends from Chitral, or we shall have to maintain Nizam-ul-Mulk with the assistance of British or Kashmir bayonets. Neither alternative is a pleasant one to contemplate, but we must wait a while and see after the mission has reached Chitral, if some other road out of the difficulty, cannot he designed.

A large deputation from Ishkoman has come to protest against a headman Muhammad Wall has placed over them. A letter has also been brought from Ali Mardan Shah containing a similar protest.

I shall announce that at present everything is unsettled, and nothing can he done until the orders of the Mehtar Sahib have been issued. The country is his, and he will decide all disputed points. At the same time I shall take an opportunity of telling Muhammad Wall to make no appointments, nor any arrangements for the government of the Warshagam country until we have been to Chitral.

Muhammad Wall's position is a curious one. Nizam hates and fears him, and will not willingly give Yasin to his keeping. The people, on the other hand, especially the Ghizr section, seem devoted to him. Muhammad Wali is not formally recognised as the Governor of Warshagam, but we are using him for the purpose of the mission as if he were undoubtedly Governor.

Everything is upside down.

Muhammad Wali and All Mardan Shah" detest one another murderously.

I have arranged that a small guard of Punyalis, eight men in all, shall go with us as far as Ghizr. This number with Sandbacks four sepoys will ensure the latter's returning safely to Roshan.

After a long talk with Daniell, I have come to the conclusion that Gupis is the place we should hold, in force, while a detachment consisting of a few men only should be stationed at Roshan. Daniell thinks you have misunderstood a former letter of his on this subject and cordially agrees to Gupis being our strong place.

It seems probable that Akbar Khan is intriguing to get the Ishkoman valley given to him.

The mission started for Hupar this morning. I leave here tomorrow, and re join it at Roshan where we shall probably have to halt a day or so to make final arrangements with Muhammad Wali.

Raja Kushwakht has been sent on straight to Roshan to find out if supplies have been collected there, and to see if everything is ready for us.

Kushwakht is in general demand. He himself is very anxious to go on with the mission. He would be most valuable to us there is no doubt but if the goes .............. do not know who there would be to help ............................................... ................ ........................

Muhammad "Wall will try and get out of going to Chitral with me. If this is true, I shall nut oppose his wish. He no doubt thinks he could consolidate his position by remaining in Yasin. He is very young and not very wise.

________________

[Demi-official.]

No. 2, dated Camp Roshan, the January 1893.

From - G. S. Robertson, Esq.,

To - Lieutenant - Colonel A.G. Durand, C.G.

We all arrived here yesterday, and everything so far is satisfactory.

We hope to get all our transport this evening, and start for Jingrot tomorrow morning.

Muhammad Wali Khan seems to have worked well, arid he as well as Safedullah and the other headmen appear pleased at the rates we have decided to pay for supplies and transport.

To save myself having to write the same thing twice over, I shall always enclose such extracts from the official diary as will interest you.

It is pretty nearly certain that we shall have trouble about supplies from Langar to Mastuj. Grain is scarce, and what there is, is of very bad quality indeed. We must see what we can-'do-in-the way, of carrying a certain amount of good 'ata' with us from the probable surplus amount collected at the villages on this side of the Shandur.

I think we shall probably take Kushwakht on to Chitral with us.

He will be worse than useless here, as every one is most jealous of his exercising the slightest authority in our name, and openly resents his even acting as our messenger in the most trivial matters. Muhammad Wali Khan wants to stay behind, so it is arranged lie shall return here from Ghizr, and do all he can to help the officer, commanding the force at Gupis. I hear that Sher Afzal has destroyed the ordinary road from Mastuj to Chitral. We shall consequently have to march by Drasan, Ower, &c., to Kughazi.

We forgot to arrange a cypher. I enclose you a very simple one. It

Semi-confidential letters I shall get translated into French for you.

_______________

[Demi-official.]

No. , dated Camp Jingrot, the 10^th January 1893.

From - G.S. Robertson, Esq., C.S.I.

To - Lieutenant-Colonel A.G. Durand, C.B.

We got here, very-comfortably to-day, all the baggage being in before half-past-one. Muhammad Wali Khan's arrangements so far have been very good.

We paid the coolies immediately on their arrival in camp. They appreciated our plan so thoroughly that one or two tried to get paid twice over.

To-morrow's march is a difficult one, and forty additional men have come in to help the baggage over the bad bit of road.

I read and sent on letters addressed to you by Nizam-ul-Mulk and by ........................... ........................... ........................... ........................... ........................... ........................... ........................... ...........................

I have answered Rab Nawaz Khan, telling him to reassure the Mehtar about Muhammad Wall. Khan, and to say that nothing will be done about Warshagam and Muhammad Wali Khan until Nizam-ul-Mulk and I have completely discussed the whole question.

Sandbach and I looked at several places for a fort, and both of us came to the conclusion that a position just opposite the mouth of the Yasin Talley is probably the best place for the Gupis force. It is distant from Gupis village about a mile and a half.

I will send Sandbach's rough sketch as well as his proposals for the barracks, &c., to you under flying seal, so that Daniell may see it and send his opinion on the matter to you without loss of time.

Will you wire to the Resident and ask what pay and allowance I am

_________________

Dated Camp Pingal, the 12tK January 1893.

From - G. S. Robertson, Esq., C.S.I.,

To - Lieutenant-colonel A. G. dtjeaitd, C.B.

I have nothing but good news to report. We have experienced no diffi­culties of any kind, while the weather has been all that could be desired. Clouds and light snow just sufficient to moderate the rigours of the climate.

We change our carriage here, the Ghizr men doing our transport onwards as far as Sarlaspur.

Muhammad Wali Khan's headmen seem very cheerful and contented, but Abdul Hakim tells me they are doubtful about their future prospects, and declare that, unless the district is given over to Muhammad Wali, they all intend to go into Gilgit. This by no means a bad state of affairs. It shows their hopes are in our direction and not in Shinaki.

I got a letter this morning from Twigg about Chilas affairs which seem satisfactory so far. You will "have already received the news so it is not worth while sending you the letter back. Twigg will have head before this that I am on my way to Chitral, and probably will not write to me again about Shinaki.

Dated Camp Ghizr, the 13^th January 1893.

From - G. S. Robertson, Esq., C.S.T.

To - Lieutenant-Colonel A.G. Durand, C.B.

I enclose you original letters from Mir Ali Mardan Shah, and from Aliha Mardan Shah (Shah-i-Mulk's sister) and copies of my answers; also extracts from the official diary concerning a little unpleasantness with Muhammad Wali Khan, which was quickly put right.

Everything including the weather has been most satisfactory. The lowest temperature we have yet had was at Gukuch. The Yasinis can only account for the mildness of the climate by attributing it to the Sarkar's "ikbal."

Langar Khan has just arrived from Chitral. All arrangements for us seem to be very satisfactory on the other side of the Shandur, while on the pass itself there is not more than a foot or so of snow.

Bahadur Khan will meet us on the pass and has made arrangements for fires on the road in case we want them.

............................... ............................... ............................... ............................... ............................... ............................... ...............................
[Demi-official.]

Dated Camp Hurchin, the l7th January 1893.

From—G. S. Robertson, Esq., C.S.I.,

To - Lieutenant-Colonel A.G. Durand, C.B.

We passed the Shandur without the least difficulty. There was very little snow comparatively speaking, and the rear guard reached Sarlaspur before 4 o'clock. Our reception has been most satisfactory. Bahadur before 4 o'clock. Our reception has been must satisfactory. Bahadur Khan and that scoundrel Muhammad Rafi met me on the top of the pass. The Sikhs managed the journey very fairly well.

To-day we are in a hot sun, everything is in, and it is only 12 o'clock. There is absolutely no snow about us. Inayat Khan and Bahadur Khan say the good luck, which attended me in Kafiristan and Nursat, is alone responsible for this unusual state of weather. They say Chitral is quite hot, and the spring crop already coming up. The villagers are almost enthusiastic about us so far. We refuse to allow their headmen to swindle them, and there is actually some difficulty in preventing their coming in a body to swear they will have no rulers but the Sahibs. My arrangement, in haying a Sahib to pay each man as he arrives in camp, has worked capitally. May it continue so in Chitral, but that is the place where our difficulties will begin in earnest. I have a great deal of writing to do, and shall supplement this letter by extracts from the official diary.

No. 329-R.-D.O., dated Gilgit, the 27th January 1893.

From - Lieutenant-colonel A. G. Durand, C.B.

To - Lieutenant-colonel D. W. K. Baer.

I send herewith; copy of a demi-official from Robertson, dated Mastuj, 18^th January, which reached me to-day.

Things look as well as possible so far as the security of the missions goes, but the ultimate arrangements to he arrived at will present the greatest difficulty. You will see that Robertson in his diary, dated 15th January, confirms very strongly the view expressed in my last demi-official as to the effect of any announcement on our part of our intention to annex the country. The people are heartily sick of both Kushwakht and Katur, and it is only the headmen, who find in the rule of either house strong support in their oppression of the people, who really wish either kingdom re-established.

Your telegram informing me that Sher Afzal is in Kabul arrived to-day and is very welcome. I am sending it on at once to Robertson.

______________

From - G.S. Robertson, Esq., C.S.I.,

To - Lieutenant-Colonel A.G. Durand, C.B.

We found the thermometer still at zero this morning at 8 o'clock. The instrument we have will not show lower temperature, but it was probably much colder even than that during the night.

We ........................ ........................ ........................ ........................ ........................ ........................ ........................ ........................

So far we have been most successful with the people. They are almost enthusiastic about us. In spite of Muhammad Wali's intrigues, the Laspur men have to-day sworn allegiance to Nizam, I am told. Our crossing the Shandur seem not only to have strengthened Nizam wonderfully, but one might even say it has enabled him to remain in Chitral.

All the poor people and villagers are delighted at our coming, the Jemadar writes to me that the same classes in Chitral are similarly jubilant. The headmen, on the other hand, are very down cast at the news.

All Aman-ul-Mulk's sons see to he hated for their father's sake. Nizam is not disliked so muck as Afzal was, for he is not so cruel, but the people care nothing about him and Sher Afzal's honeyed speeches and promises brought nearly the whole country to his side:

He announced his intention of giving up the timber trade, of requiring no one to carry loads or give supplies to British officers, and so forth, and the people seem to have believed all he said.

To show you the weakness of Nizam's rule. He appointed Abdullah Khan, Hakim of Taskar as well as of Mastuj, but the people of the former place simply declined to have anything to say to him or to obey his orders, and there was the end of the matter.

This is the pleasantest January in some respects that I have eye made in Chitral. The poor coolies are so cheerful and friendly. On the road when I ask any of them if they tired or if their loads are heavy, they always answer cheerily in the negative and travel on sturdily. To-day some of them brought in their burdens in a little over five hours. The distance is fifteen miles. I never saw men work so astonishingly well. Abdul Hakim is invaluable in getting information. He gets me the opinion of headmen and villagers, even the sayings of the old woman chatting together. No mission was ever better supplied with intelligence than this one is Kushwakht Khan also works well in various ways. We expect to reach Chitral on the 25th or 26th.

K.F.

No. 897, dated Sialkot, the 7th March 1893

From - Lieutenant - Colonel D.W.K. Barr, Officiating Resident in Kashmir,

To - The Secretary to the Government of India, Foreign Department

In continuation of my letter No. 784, dated the 27^th February 1893, I have the honour to forward, for the information of the Government of India, a copy of the marginally noted letters, with their enclosures, in original, received from the British Agent, Gilgit, forwarding extracts from the Chitral Mission Diaries, dated the 13^th, 14^th, 15^th, 16^th and 17^th January 1893.
No. 221, dated January 1893.

No. 285 R, dated January 1893.

No. 330 R, dated 28^th January 1893

_______________

From - Lieutenant - Colonel A.G. Durand, , C.B., British Agent at Gilgit.

To - The Resident in Kashmir.

I have the honour to forward an extract from the Chitral Mission Diary, dated Camp Chashi, 13th January 1893.

2. As I have telegraphed to-day the arrangements for the mission have been excellent up to the Shandur, and are reported complete on the Chitral side of the pass, on which fortunately there is but little snow. In spite of the cold, the thermometer standing at zero at Ghizr, no casualties are reported amongst the escort.

3. The condition of affairs in Chitral appears to be satisfactory, and confidence in the stability of the new Mehtar's rule is evidently being restore owing to the departure of Sher Afzal.

4. I have forwarded copies of your telegrams, No. 91G., dated 8^th January, and No.. 140 G., dated 13th January 1893, to Mr. Robertson.

____________

No. 285 R., dated Gilgit, the January 1893.

From - The British Agent at Gilgit,

To - The Resident in Kashmir.

I have the honour to forward herewith extracts from the Chitral Mission Diary, dated Ghizr, 14^th January 1893.

2. The mission crossed the Shandur in safety, as I informed you in my telegram No. 252, dated 24^th January 1893, and the arrangements up to Barnas appeared to be complete.

3. Beyond that point the difficulties of the undertaking will being. It seems not unlikely, if the news of Sher Afzal's being still on the borders of Chitral is true, that Mr. Robertson may have considerable trouble.

4. However, so far as the limits of the ancient Kushwakt kingdom extend, that is from Roshan on the Punyal border to Barnas, four marhces below Mastuj ..................... ............................ ...........................
No. 330 R., dated the 28th January, 1893.

From - The British Agent at Gilgit,

To - The Resident in Kashmir.

I have the honour to forward herewith extracts from the Chitral Mission

2. The progress of the mission continues to he as satisfactory as possible, and the good feeling of the people towards us is a most cheering sign, It corroborates the opinion always held and expressed by Mr. Robertson and myself that the mass of the people were for us, even while many of the headmen were against us.

3. This does not unfortunately simplify the question of the establishment of a firm rule over a contented and united Chitral, for the country is evidently split up into three or four parties. But it certainly seems to offer us the opportunity of very greatly increasing our hold, and to point to the absolute necessity for stationing British officers in the country.

______________

Extract from Chitral Mission Diary, dated Camp Chashi, the 13^th January 1893.

* * * *

In an interview between Muhammad Wali Khan, the Eshani Hazrat, Safedullah Khan, and Mr. Robertson at 4 o'clock at Chashi, Mr. Robertson took occasion to point out to the three the difficulties of the situation, and to show them how absolutely essential it was for their own future welfare that they should conciliate all the people of Yassin and earn the friendship and good will of the Mehtar Sahib by good and just government. In this way only could their enemies be disarmed and there enemies be disarmed and the retention of his present position be possibly ................ ............................ ............................ ............................ ............................ ........................................................

* * * * *

Langar Khan came to see me. He reached Ghizr this morning on his way to Punyal. He reports that arrangements have been made on the other side of the Shandur for the accommodation of the mission, and supplies collected. Raja Bahadur Khan is at Sar Laspur and is to meet me on the Kotal, where he has collected firewood in case it may be required. Langer Khan also said that from Barnas to Sar Laspur the headmen were well affected to Nizam-ul-Mulk, but that the people were all disloyal and were in great hopes of the old Kushwakt kingdom being re-established as far as Barnas under Muhammad Wali Khan. Asked about Abdullah Khan, he said the Hakim had gone up the Yarkhun valley to collect supplies, and that the Sar Laspur villagers in particular were bitterly hostile to him; they desired to seize the skirts of the British Government, and be placed under the rule of Muhammad Wali. It is hardly necessary to say that Langar Khan is a firm adherent of the Khushwakt is. Rashu, the Gilgit, who took letters to Chitral, also arrived in camp. He declares it is quite untrue about. Sher Afzal having gone to Kabul that he is still on the frontier, and supposed to be now living in Shal. He says that the Mehtar Sahib is in a great state of anxiety, is surrounded day and night by guards, and is earnestly looking forward to the arrival of the mission to relieve him from his difficulties. Great pressure is being put on the villagers to collect supplies for the mission, and they are grumbling and discontented.
One of the Punyal Rajas, brother of Raja Afyat Khan of Gukuch.

26^th January 1893 A.D.

Rashu declares that all the Chitralis regret Sher Afzal, and when sum­moned to Darbar by Nizam-ul-Mulk, they all remained silent from fear, and from sorrow. He further stated that all the people from Barnas to Sar-Laspur, headmen and poor people alike were anxious to have Muhammad Wali for their Mehtar.

Muhammad Wali Khan and the Eshani Hazrat came to see Mr. Robertson a little before 5 o'clock. They said that frequently messengers had come from the Khushwakti country beyond the Shandur to say that the people hoped that how Muhammad Wali Khan had become friendly with; the Govern­ment of India that he would be appointed ruler over them. They had formerly kept these matters to themselves for fear of exciting the displeasure of Mr. Robertson, but now in consideration of the kindness they had been shown, they intended to make a clean breast of everything. They had not encouraged intrigues beyond the Shandur, but had remained absolutely passive in the matter. For this they were commended and told they had acted prudently. They then went on to say that to-day two fresh messengers had arrived, begging Muhammad Wali to make it certain that the people as far as Barnas would be placed under his rule, and not under his rule, and not under that of Sardar Nizam-ul-Mulk. They added that on his way to Chitral, Mr. Robertson will be able to test the sincerity of their overtures himself, and begged him to listen to the representations of the villagers Muhammad Wali Khan is a devoted servant of the Government, and unless he obtains the friendship and favour of Mr. Robertson, is hopeless and forlorn. His adherents across the Shandur will do everything in their power for the mission but a vast difference will be seen in the behaviour of the people as it proceeds onwards towards Chitral.

As in case of .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. .............................. ..............................

decided by Government after the mission had returned from the Chitral; but the mission would be able to learn many things, and perhaps be in a position to discover the true feeling of the people.

All the, information obtained would be communicated to Muhammad Wali by Mr. Robertson on his return journey. In the meantime, Muhammad Wali should keep Mr. Robertson informed on all subjects, as he was already doing. He should also show by his justice and careful government his fitness for ruling the country over which he was at present placed as Deputy Governor. Finally he was assured of the feelings of personal friendship entertained for him by Mr. Robertson. The interview closed satisfactorily with an interchange of compliments, and the promise that it should be resumed tomorrow at Langar.

There are rumours that Sher Afzal's son is somewhere near the top of the Latku valley. It is not known on which side of the Dorah Pass. People wonder if he is there for news of, or orders from, his father, and whether or not he is accompanied by an armed force.

Mir Alam Khan of the Beg Ali tribe of Shin, brother of Hakim Maimun Shah, the Hakim abused and sent away by Muhammad Wali at Pingal accompanied by Yusuf charvels of Barkulti, Chashi and Pingal, went this evening to Abdul Haki, and said their only desire was that they should be accepted as subjects of the Government of India, and that they desired to have nothing to do with Muhammad Wali. Mir Alam complained of the treatment to which his brother had been subjects, and declared that his family consisted of 300 respectable persons, all of whom were of the same mind as himself, and they had all determined to be subject to the Government of India, and not to Muhammad Wali.

26^th January 1893. A.D.

Immediately afterwards, when these men had gone away, Mir Hayo, the headman of Ghizr, and of the Walia tribe, which numbers 160 to 200 men, went also to Abdul Hakim and complained that, although he was the chiefest and most powerful amongst the Ghizr people, he .was nevertheless being Worried, and thrust aside by Muhammad Wali and Safedullah, but that he and his people would not submit to their authority. He was very loud in his complaints, but as he was being watched from a distance by one of Muhammad Wall's men, he broke off the conversation saying he would return later on.

None of these people will be seen by Mr. Robertson.

_______________

Extract from Chitral Mission Diary, dated Camp Langar, the 15th January1893,

* * * * * * * * * * *

Something very like a mutiny against Muhammad Wali occurred this evening. The rebellious Ghizr men declared he and his myrmidons had eaten up all money paid for supplies, and given them none of it. This is very likely true. We know that each coolie gets his proper wages, for a British officer pays each man himself as the convoy enters the camp and before the loads are put down.

Considerable tact has been and still will be necessary to prevent the discontented people appealing to Mr. Robertson against their acting (Governor) and at the same time keeping them well affected towards the mission.

From what we see and hear it seems doubtful if Muhammad Wali's hold on the Ghizr people is as strong as we ............................ ................................. .............................. .......................................

British annexation of the whole district were at the present moment to be announced, it would be received with something little short of enthusiasm by a greatly preponderating number of the inhabitants.

Abdul Hakim tells me the people clamour openly about his tent, declaring their wish to be subjects of the Government of India. The action of the mission so far in its attempts to conciliate the villagers generally, but is not free from an element of embarrassment also. Every effort will however be made to^: keep the mission out of any semblance of usurping the power of the supreme authority of the district, while at the same time everything will be done to keep both Muhammad Wali, and also the discontented Yassinis, well inclined and well affected towards the British Government.

It is assumed that Mr. Robertson knows nothing of the state of affairs' in the Warshagam district.

As Muhammad Wall's emissaries are intriguing against Mehtar Nizam-ul-Mulk beyond the Shandur, so also are agents from Chitral busy in stirring up people's minds against Muhammad Wali.

The whole of the country is in a general state of overturn, and were

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* * * * * *

On leaving Langar, Muhammad Wali and his confidential advisers took & very friendly farewell of Mr. Robertson, and many compliments and kind wishes were interchanged. In a confidential way, free, it was hoped; from any sound of a lecturing tone, they were all cautioned to avoid oppression, to behave justly, and on no account to encourage intrigues on the other side of the Shandur. They all knew they were out of favour with the Mehtar Sahib, and it would be a proper, no less than a wise policy, for them to do nothing to increase this feeling of distrust and resentment.

Mr. Robertson promised to write to Muhammad Wali Khan a letter of appreciation of the good work he had done; and to inform him in time of the return of the mission, so that Muhammad Wali might receive it at Langar. The Mehtar Jan was also told of the rifle and other presents he would receive on that occasion. All three, Muhammad Wali, Safedullah and the Eshani Hazrat appear to be inveterate but shallow schemers, and it seems hopeless to suppose a satisfactory modus vivendi can ever be established between them and Mehtar Nizam-ul-Mulk. This is unfortunate, for Muhammad Wali though young and foolish is a nice boy and a pleasant companion.

As Mr. Robertson was riding off, some of the chief men of Ghizr, Cliashi, &c. ran after Abdul Hakim and whispered in his ear. It was to the effect that whatever might happen they intended to be the subjects of the Government of India, and of no one else.

From secret information it is known that Meharban, the headman of Laspur is hostile to both Kator and Khushwaktis, and declares that all the people share his sentiments with the exception of ten families attached to Muhammad Rafi one of the three ruffians who actually seized and murdered poor Hayward and was forced into exile by Afzal-ul-Mulk and accompanied that prince to ............................................... appointed by the attend Hakim of Laspur, he is now actively ..................................... .................. ........... .....................

but the people simply refused to obey his orders. It is explained that they adopted this extreme measure in consequence of messengers from Muhammad Wali having assured them that the whole of the district, as far as Barnas, had been definitely promised to that Khushwakti Prince by Mr. Robertson. The Laspur people detest the memory of Mehtar Aman-ul-Mulk, whose strong hand repressed them and kept them submissive at the same time that his tyranny infuriated them. Their chief grievance was against the forced labour for timber cutting which the later Mehtar exacted. On one occasion twenty men died or were killed while doing this work and this naturally enough still rankles in their memory. They extend their harted for the father to the sons; consequently they were delighted when Sher Afzal usurped the Mehtar-ship, and were in sorrow at his flight from Chitral. He had promised to relieve them for ever from the oppression they had suffered under, and particularly declared his intention of abandoning the timber trade by which Aman-ul-Mulk so greatly enriched himself. This delighted them, and they seem to have accepted these politic assurances in perfectly good faith, although by this time one would suppose they knew the value of the word of Katur ruler. They say their hope now is that, influenced by a British officer, Nizam-ul-Mulk will treat them considerately and justly. They particularly object to a tax which compels them to pay so many woolen choghas yearly. In a poor and cold district such as this, the hardship of this impost is really of much greater importance than might at first sight appear possible. Mehrban expressed his desire to collect the 200 armed men Laspur contributes to the total force of Chitral, to bring them to the chief of the mission, and let him hear from their own mouths their sincere desire to be placed under a British protectorate.

The whole of the Sar-Laspur villagers seem most friendly and cheerful. They exhibited a pleasing "curiosity about the belongings of the mission. To Mr. Robertson who remembered their sullen depressed looks on the occasion of his former visits, the difference was very striking.

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Extracts from Chitral Mission Diary, dated Camp Harchin, 17th January 1893.

* * * * *

On arriving at Harchin, Mr. Robertson seized the opportunity, when speak­ing to Bahadur Khan and Inayat Khan in reply to their assurances, that the whole of the*country and its resources were his, to point out that such expressions, though polite and kind, were incorrect. 'The country was the Mehtar's, the people his subjects, and his only.' The mission and its officers were his guests and his friends merely. Its object was to cement, if that could be necessary, the known friendship between Nizam-ul-Mulk and the Government of India, to discuss various political matters with the Mehtar, and to help him in every possible way. If he asked for advice, of course advice would be given, as friends should always advise friends, but the chief object the mission had in view, was to publish abroad the friendship which existed between the great Government of India and the Mehtar.

These remarks were called for by the repeated half-wishful, but highly complimentary speaches made by the Mehtar Jan and the Wazir to Mr. Robertson. They were delighted at what they heard, and said their only sorrow was that more, people had not been present to hear it also.

It is found that one of the reasons why the Laspur people are so hopeful of the future arises, from the fact that Nizam-ul-Mulk has up to the present in the put no one to death. This is, attributed to his fear that such acts would be locked upon with disfavour by the Government of India.

(confidential.)

Dated Sialkot, the 23rd March 189S (demi-official).

From - Lieutenant-Colonel D. W. K. Barr, Officiating Resident in Kashmir,

To - Sir Mortimer Durand, K.C.I.E., C.S.I., Secretary to the. Government of India, Foreign Department.

I forward a demi-official letter No. 478-R., dated the 11^th February: 1893, from your brother, enclosing copy of demi-official No.-10, dated Chitral, the 25th January, from Robertson.

I regard these letters as very important expositions of the views held in perfect accord by the two-officers who from knowledge and experience, are best fitted to give an opinion.

It must be remembered that Robertson's letter was written under a certain amount of depression, caused by the very unpromising outlook of affairs at Chitral. His subsequent letters and diaries up to the 6^th February, which lam forwarding to you separately, give a better account of Nizam-ul-Mulk's posi­tion, and of the steps he was taking to establish himself as Mehtar in something more than name, and doubtless prospects will have become still brighter when it is known that Sher Afzul is under surveillance in Afghanistan, and is not likely to give further trouble at Chitral.

On the other hand, the events at Chilas on the 5th March, demonstrating, as I think they do, a coalition of all the Indus Valley tribes against us, will Iend more weight to the arguments advanced by your brother and Robert son in favour of sending strong reinforcements to the frontier, and establishing the positions which we now hold in a somewhat feeble grasp.

Without pretending to any right to advise in this matter, I must say that the letters I am now sending you have forced me to the conclusion that we cannot afford to lose our hold on Chilas and Chitral.

I do not think that any question of the susceptibilities of Kashmir is to be considered, nor, if it is determined to send troops up to the frontier, would it be necessary to include them in the number of the Gilgit Agent's Guard. I presume that an expedition would be sent, with the objects (1) of strengthen­ing our position at Chitral and on the frontier generally; (2) of punishing the tribes that took part in the late attack on Chilas. The Kashmir Darbar would not be in a position to contribute either troops or money for such an expedition, though of course the Gilgit force would co-operate.

The results would be the opening of roads (1) from Peshawar via Dir to Chitral; (2) froth Abbottabad via Khagan to Chilas, and the establishment of such forts, in the Indus Valley, at Chitral, Darband, Mastuj and Yasin, as would ensure our permanent hold on the frontier, as well as a complete control over the independent States of the Indus Valley.

It is a big business, but the question is whether it is so big now as it would be say two years hence, if we remain_: inactive.

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From - Lieutenant-Colonel A.G. Durand, C.B., British Agent at Gilgit.

To - Lieutenant-Colonel D.W.K. Barr, Officiating Resident in Kashmir.

I forward herewith a most interesting letter from Robertson, dated Chitral, 25^th January. Things looked very black then, but the news of Sher Afzal's being in Kabul a prisoner will strengthen his hands, though of course it will be some time before the partisans of the former believe that he is out of the way.

It might be worth considering, should the Jelalabad Mission come off whether we could not get bold of Shere Afzal and his son; they ............................ the glad ...............................

Katur family might, after seeing for themselves our powers, throw in their lot with us and against our "friend and ally" the Amir. Nizam will never have a family unless the amends his ways, and we might have very strong cards in our hands with Sher Afzal in our power.