Narratives of the mutiny in Bengal and elsewhere will be despatched, with lists of civilians who have distinguished themselves among whom he will select those especially deserving of honour; recommends F J Halliday for KCB.
Encloses papers on doings of 4th European Regiment and 2nd Light Cavalry at Allahabad showing 'how narrow escape we have had from grievous disaster. I never passed a more anxious 24 hours than after the first announcement of Sir John Inglis' intention to disarm'.
Health of (Sir) Henry Ricketts having broken down, and with only two remaining colleagues (Outram and Peacock) neither of whom is in robust health, it is imperative, in view of volume of business, for him to exercise his power to appoint temporary member of Council.
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 ...
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...
Lord Clyde's fall from horse while pursuing rebels; progress in pacifying Oudh now slower as troops are now at close quarters with most inveterate rebels; problem of finding employment for disbanded sepoys and returned mutineers; Canning is sceptical regarding Montgomery's plan to do this by buil...
Refers to Stanley's letter of 2 December; thanks for advance warning of despatch on Canning's Oudh proclamation, and for Govt's considerate handling of matter.