Encloses proof copy of memorandum on narrow gauge railways by John Fowler, 'the eminent engineer', concluding that best narrow gauge for India is 3' 6"; great economy to have only one narrow gauge below general one.
Encloses letter from John Delane (editor of The Times) to Lord Granville containing plea that Viceroy's Bodyguard, commanded by his brother, should not be reduced; Cabinet very nervous about getting into scrape with Persia and Kalat; probably all that can be done is to indicate British concern wi...
Duke of Edinburgh should be guest of Govt of India which should pay his expenses; such expenditure justified by political importance of visit to India by Queen's son.
Cancellation of durbar alters position regarding presents for Duke of Edinburgh, and Argyll content to leave matter to Mayo's discretion, but favours allowing Duke to keep some from Indian Princes rather than disgust them by usual system of Govt selling them.
Photocopies of correspondence between the Viceroy the Earl of Mayo and the Secretary of State for India the Duke of Argyll taken from the Mayo Papers at Cambridge University Library.
Agrees with Mayo's conclusion against Frere's suggestion that Rajputana line should be given to Bombay and Baroda Company; Argyll strongly against Guaranteed Company system even before he knew Lawrence supported direct Govt construction; surprised to discover William Thornton (Head of India Offic...
Acknowledges Mayo's letter of 26 December; explains circumstances surrounding appointment of Lord Napier (C-in-C, Bombay) as Mansfield's successor as C-in-C, India, which had led to complaint from Mansfield; regarding change in C-in-C's position suggested by Mayo, Argyll needed to consult some me...
Problems caused by over 50% cut in recruitment to Indian Civil Service suddenly proposed by Mayo; ICS examination is very severe; such diminution can be made, but only with due notice; for this year only a smaller cut can be agreed; undue growth in number of posts filled by uncovenanted civil ser...