Discusses situation in and policy towards Afghanistan; is vehemently opposed to interference in family quarrels of ruling house – points out disasters which would have resulted from following Sir H Rawlinson's advice; Amir's last chance of popularity would have been destroyed if he had employed '...
Answers charge made in Council of India that Govt of India had done nothing to support or guide Govt of Bengal in introducing measure for local cesses [i.e. local taxes]; Mayo knew that new policy would face determined opposition from Bengal Services (with Grey at their head) and from zamindars; ...
Sends memorandum on retirement question – fact that scheme decided on by Argyll is popular with Civil Service does not mean it is advantageous to the State; the majority of the service, being mediocrities, like a system which gives no advantage to genius.
Great news of Amir's re-occupation of Herat – Mayo congratulates himself on his grasp of Afghan politics 'without spending a Rupee or incurring a Liability'; if Sistan Boundary can be settled, this will tighten our hold still further over Afghan ruler; brief comments on parliamentary committee on...
Bengal Cess Bill passed – 'the greatest measure that has passed for the lower provinces for many years'; putting it into effect will be long and arduous; cow killing incidents; Wahabi trials over and principal offenders convicted; law allows too many opportunities for obstruction and delay, and t...
Opposes sending British Mission to Khiva, discusses policy towards Russian advance in Central Asia and advises against provoking Russia by any show of support for central asian chiefs; exaggerated complaints of Calcutta and Rangoon merchants against export duties on grain; income tax cannot be ra...
Brief remarks on various matters including proposals by Sir R Temple (Finance Member of Governor-General's Council) on mode of treating capital of Civil Service Annuity Funds; floods have damaged Punjab railways.