Given that war in Europe seems certain, is preparing earthworks along the Hooghly to defend Calcutta from naval attack; these will not be costly but protection of (currently defenceless) Rangoon will be expensive and difficult.
Encloses copy of petition from 3rd Bengal European Infantry to House of Commons; temper of police and natives generally in North Western Provinces is good; probability of war in Europe does not alter his opinion how discontented European soldiers should be handled.
In response to Stanley's despatch desiring troops to be sent to Mauritius, explains reasons for retaining two British Army regiments in India (out of ten due to return to England): i.e. probability that large numbers of Europeans will accept offer of discharges from Company's armies, uncertainty ...
Refers to Stanley's letter of 3 May; apart from those marked 'private' because they concern individuals, there is no reason why his letters should not be turned to public [i.e. official] as well as private uses.
Suggests need to take precautions against possible French attacks in areas besides Mauritius, particularly the Red Sea ports in view of recent French naval activity in the Red Sea and along the African coast; report in Times that French had ordered charts of Indian coasts and ports; Outram is upd...
Refers to Stanley's letter of 25 April; shortcomings of Governor-General's Council as an administrative machine, as instanced by cases of Raja of Farukhabad, and discontent of European troops; problem caused by legal right of each Council member to be consulted on all subjects; one solution is to...
Encloses copy of Outram's minute on protecting Egypt from French; is hoping Begum of Oudh will soon surrender given hardships rebels are now suffering; this will enable him to free King of Oudh; premature to announce day of Thanksgiving while Gazette still frequently reports 'small engagements an...
Recommendation for favour to Col Stuart; as Canning's Military Secretary his duties have been exceptionally heavy and responsible; much business between Governor-General and C-in-C, India, during mutiny 'has been transacted unofficially – or, at least, not through the ordinary tedious channels of...
Refers to his own letter of 13 June and Stanley's of 16 May (3) on reform of his Council and clarifies first of alternative proposals suggested in the former; his second proposal very similar to Stanley's unless Stanley envisaged Secretaries having cognisance of work of other departments as well ...