Royal Navy's activities in African and Arabian seas to stop slave trade are preventing legitimate trade – root of problem is navy's prize system; heavy unnecessary expense caused by appointment of Barrister Judge Advocate General from England; approves appointment of (Sir) James Stephen to succee...
Recent events mean that Forsyth and anyone else must be absolutely forbidden to travel in Afghanistan at present; no objection to travel in Russia openly under Russian protection; even if Afghanistan were safe at present any appearance there by British officer might embarrass Amir.
Recommends GCSI for Sir Salar Jung (Prime Minister of Hyderabad), who has agreed to proposals for education of Nizam and administration of State; loss of oxen in Rajputana will severely restrict amount of land which can be tilled; question whether Duke of Edinburgh should retain presents received...
Has just heard Bombay opium revenue for 1868-69 over-estimated by £488,680 (£1,761,320 as against £2,250,000) which accounts for much of error in estimate of cash balances; searching enquiry into error will be made.
Is concerned at wild talk from Fytche and his officers regarding intervention in Burma; has appealed to Napier to ensure that vacancy in command of Pegu Division is filled by prudent officer; defect of Indian Staff organisation that it is virtually obligatory to appoint a Madras officer when ther...
[cf Argyll to Mayo, 4 June]; is sending despatch in which he and his Council unanimously defend terms of letter sent to Amir at Ambala; effects of meeting have exceeded expectations; civil war has ceased in Afghanistan; Amir has cooperated in suppressing frontier disturbance, and is going almost ...
Refers to Argyll's letter of 11 June; qualifications needed in American railway engineer(s) recruited for India, appropriate pay levels, and type of work he would do; Mayo hopes Argyll will find first rate man, and he will see that he is treated well – he must be thoroughly honest and strong enou...
[Refers to Argyll's letter of 16 April]; in agreement on railways; will be cautious about embarking on new irrigation projects; if irrigation is to be continued on scale commensurate with India's needs, his proposed system of accounts and payment for them will be essential; emphasises strength of...