Mss Eur F699/1/1/1/22

Correspondence from Sir Robert Montgomery. Letters numbered 1-51 with index and detailed summaries.

Letter no. 16 in not in the volume; it was transferred to Private Secretary's Miscellaneous Bundle, no. 474, and thereafter to papers in dispatch box relating to Peshawar. It can now be found at Mss Eur F699/1/4/8/5.

1. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 8 Mar 1859. Has had no time to write, though Sir John Lawrence left no arrears. Reports a seditious plot which was discovered just before Lawrence left. The two people chiefly concerned were arrested, tried, and sent to the Andamans within 48 hours of arrest. Thinks the general mass of people are well disposed to the Government, but there is a spirit of restlessness abroad which makes a close watch necessary.

2. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 31 Mar 1859. Sends a copy of correspondence between himself and Sir J Cotton, about the 24th Punjab Infantry. Understands that the Regiment is ready to become Christian, and thinks if it were to move to Peshawur there would be great excitement if not more. The people of the Punjab are well and prosperous. Private. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Major General Sir J Cotton to the Lieutenant Governor, Peshawur, 9 Mar, and the Lieutenant Governor to Cotton, Lahore, 28 Mar, on the conversion of the 24th PI.

2a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, 9 May 1859. Thanks Lord Canning for his paper about tenures in Oudh. Believes that very few errors will be found in the Settlement, describes the machinery for their correction. Major Barrow's investigation into titles of estate were very complete. There were one or two opposers of the finality measure, including Mr Forbes and Mr Tucker; Major Barrow successfully upheld the former rights of the Talookdars.

2b. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 22 Jul 1859. Reports the country quiet and prosperous, but in need of careful watching. The Mahomedans are uneasy, cites various incidents. Urges the censorship of the native newspapers. If the European war ends in the downfall of Turkey, the Mahomedans in India will be affected. Praises his Frontier officers, Chamberlain, Taylor and James. Hears good reports from Oudh. Will be glad to have his old Secretary Major Hutchinson in the Public Works Department. in the Punjab; thanks Canning for sending him Mr Perkins.

3. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 11 Aug 1859. Quotes an incomplete telegram received from Canning, hopes he has answered it correctly. Lists the troops in the Punjab, offers some of them for service in China.

4. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 19 Aug 1859. Reports that Brigadier Chamberlain is against sending the Punjab Irregular Frontier Force on foreign service, suggests alternative troops from the Punjab Infantry and the new Punjab Corps.

5. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 27 Aug 1859. Thanks Lord Canning for his congratulations on his honours. Makes suggestions about the Governor General's Tour itinerary in the Punjab. Rain may hold up the Governor General's progress. The big tea plantation is near Kangra. Regrets that Canning will enter by Delhi, a shattered town on which there seems to be a curse. Paper annexed: Memorandum of marches between Delhi and Peshawur.

5a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 30 Aug 1859. Thanks Canning for the memorandum on the services of Civil officers during the Mutiny, and for the mention of his services. Criticises the memorandum in detail. Suggests that perhaps the services of Colonel Birch, Sir H Maddock and Sir H Elliot have been too highly rated, and the services of Messrs Ford, Spankie CB, Sanders, Brigadier Corbett and Major Hutchinson not noticed, or not rated high enough.

6. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 27 Sep 1859. Writes about the Durbars to be held in the Punjab by the Governor General There can be no Durbar at Delhi, there is no-one there of sufficient wealth or respectability. Names the towns for Durbars, and the people who should be received. All is quiet in the Punjab, there is a little uneasiness at the Kohat pass.

7. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, 13 Oct 1859. Asks if anything can be done for Colonel Barrow. He committed a great error which could not be passed over. Nevertheless he did outstanding service in the Mutiny. He is about to revert to the post of Deputy Commissioner. A few kind words from Lord Canning would greatly gratify him. Believes that Oudh should not be joined to the North West Provinces in the near future.

7a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 25 Oct 1859. Imagines that by the time Lord Canning reaches Futtygurh he will have formed a better opinion of Oudh fertility. Asks where he should meet the Governor General, if at all. Montgomery intended to make rapid journeys from Lahore, rather than make a regular Tour. Hopes Lord Canning will allow men from the Punjab regiments to volunteer for service in China. They should be collected for embarkation at Kurachee; and given officers used to Punjabis. Names for this purpose Vaughan, Renny, and Lumsden, in the absence of Wilde and Coke.

8. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 11 Nov 1859. Sends extracts of a letter from Brigadier Chamberlain. Comments on the murder of Captain Mecham, apparently by robbers. Four of the murderers are known. The new system of taxation is progressing very well. There should be an increase of revenue of at least 30 lacs. The large cities and even minor towns have all voted for making up their quota by a duty levied on goods sold. The people dread a direct tax and will pay double, gladly, indirectly. Paper annexed: extract from a letter from Brigadier General Chamberlain, to Major Lawrence, on troops for China. The best plan will be to ask for volunteers, gives details. Also annexed: telegraphic message from the Commissioner Peshawur to the Secretary to Government Lahore, reporting that treble Octroi duties have been cheerfully accepted by the City of Peshawur and are estimated at 2 ¼ lacs.

8a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 16 Nov 1859. Comments on the use of Punjab troops in China. Agrees that to use Punjabis only would be objectionable. Thinks the proposal to send four Battalions of Punjabis and two of Hindustanis a good one. Agrees that only volunteers should be sent. Including the medical officer there should be not less than 8 officers with every regiment of 800 men. Further details. Suggests for the command of a Sikh Brigade Sir R Napier, Coke, Bruce, Wilde or Lumsden. Recommends for the command of volunteer regiments Vaughan, Renny, or Captain Campbell.

9. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 21 Nov 1859. Has told Major Taylor to offer rewards only for the capture of the murderers of Captain Mecham, and not for their heads. Taylor will be distressed at his mistake. There is to be a meeting of Taylor, Captain James and Brigadier Chamberlain at Kohat to decide what is to be done about the murder.

10. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 1 Dec 1859. Has already reported that Captain Mecham's murderers will be demanded from the tribes who harbour them, and if not given up the tribes will be punished. The troops will have to march through a village of the Amir's, his permission is being sought. Asks for Canning's approval. There are now very few native troops in the Punjab, no further reductions can be made. Will be glad to have a reply to his letter on taxation. Paper annexed: extract from Brigadier Chamberlain's letter of 28 Nov, to Montgomery, on the punishment of the Wuzerees for the murder of a British officer.

11. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Hissar, 13 Dec 1859. Montgomery is glad Canning is pleased with the introduction of the tax, which continues smoothly. Hopes to be back at Lahore by Christmas, hopes to pay a flying visit to Canning at Delhi. The Governor General can travel from Lahore to Peshawur in four days in comparative comfort, with camels. Asks where Canning will stay in Peshawur. Recommends his own rapid way of travelling, as opposed to the great Camps.

12. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Jullundhur, 22 Dec 1859. Has asked Major Lake to call upon Lord Canning, he is going to England, as is Major Becher.

13. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Jullundhur, 22 Dec 1859. Has suggested that Major Becher Deputy Commissioner of Hazareh should call on Lord Canning.

13a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 29 Dec 1859. Sends two letters from Captain James, with a satisfactory account of the campaign following the murder of Captain Mecham. The other tribes (beside the one being punished) kept quite aloof, quite a new feature in mountain warfare. Captain James asks for gloves and shoes for his men; Montgomery recommends the former only. The second letter is about the notice to be given to the Amir of the Governor General's proposed visit to Peshawur. Montgomery thinks it would be best for Canning not to meet the Amir. Hopes that Canning will arrange about the future military garrison of Delhi. Endorsed: ‘Telegraph Messages Sent 701. Two letters from Captain James to Montgomery, 24 Dec, on the subjects mentioned above’.

13b. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 29 Dec 1859. Sends a memorandum by Mr Barnes on the grant to the Puttiala Rajah of more land, to make up the deficiency in the assumed value of the estate given him by Government. Supports Barnes' proposal to sell part of the Jujjur Estate to Puttiala. Barnes also mentions the question of adoption, which Canning might decide before he reaches Umballa. The original letter is endorsed with a reference to the Private Secretary's correspondence no. 6686. Paper annexed: Memorandum on Puttiala, as above, 22 Dec.

13c. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 1 Jan 1860. Sends a letter from Captain James giving a brief account of what the expedition to capture Captain Mecham's murderers is doing. Captain Johnstone of the Revenue Survey is with the expedition, mapping the country as far as possible. Has communicated the Governor General's telegraph to Captain James. Endorsed: Telegraph Messages Sent 701. Paper annexed: letter from Captain James to Montgomery, on the progress of the expedition, as above. Gives a list of letters and telegrams he has sent, 27 Dec.

14. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 5 Jan 1860. Sends a letter from Captain James, all is as usual satisfactory. Reports Mr Wilson's departure; he was well-liked at Lahore. Paper annexed: letter from Captain James to Montgomery, on the progress of the expedition, as above, 29 Dec.

15. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 7 Jan 1860. Sends a copy of a letter from Captain Coxe, Deputy Commissioner of Derah Ismail Khan to Secretary to Government of the Punjab, describing the expedition from the Bunnoo side. Paper annexed: copy of a letter from Coxe, as above, 2 Jan.

17. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 9 Jan 1860. Sends a letter from Captain James on the progress of the expedition. Paper annexed: letter from Captain James to Montgomery, as above, 2 Jan. Includes sketch map of the country.

18. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 14 Jan 1860. Sends a letter from Captain James on the progress of the expedition. Paper annexed: letter from Captain James to Montgomery, as above, 9 Jan.

19. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 19 Jan 1860. Has telegraphed that Mr Temple has accepted the post offered him by Lord Canning. 'It will be 2 or 3 weeks before he has completed his work as Compensation Commissioner. He will be a great loss, he is by far the ablest man in the Province. Has lost many excellent men in the last 8 months. The expedition has returned.

20. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Sealkote, 11 Mar 1860. Asks for a decision about Brigadier Chamberlain's successor, he should leave the Indus before Apr. Canning's visit has been a great pleasure to all.

21. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, near Lahore, 15 Mar 1860. Has heard that Mr Saunders has accepted the post at Hyderabad.. He can be relieved at any time, and may temporarily make over his office to Captain Pollock. Montgomery will keep the permanent appointment of Commissioner open for Bowring. The Mahsood Wuzerees are threatening Tonk, and troops have left Derah Ismail Khan for its protection. Taylor knows Lord Canning's wishes and will not unnecessarily be drawn into a campaign, though one may be necessary.

22. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, near Lahore, 16 Mar 1860. Sends two telegraphs on the attack of the Wuzerees. Taylor will decide if an Expedition is necessary. Sends a letter from Captain James on the success of the Peshawur Durbar, and on the Frontier incident at Abozai. If an Expedition against the Wuzerees is necessary, Montgomery has asked the Brigadier to remain until it is over. Three papers annexed: Telegraph from Brigadier General Chamberlain to the Lieutenant Governor, 15 Mar, on the gathering of the Masood tribe in the pass in front of Tonk. Government troops and levies have moved out. Telegraph from the same to the same, 15 Mar, reporting a skirmish in which many Wuzerees were killed. Letter from Captain James to Montgomery, 10 Mar, reporting on the Durbar at Peshawur. The Pindiali Mommuds have again committed a raid, and the officer at Fort Abozai going too far into the hills after the robbers lost three or four of his own men. They are subjects of the Amir. Will report officially, and protest to the General against officers on the Frontier crossing the boundary.

23. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 19 Mar 1860. Believes that an expedition against the Mahsood Wuzerees is now necessary, because of their unprovoked attack on the Government troops on the Frontier. In anticipation of orders from the Governor General will collect a force, which will in any event be necessary to carry out the threat against the Cabool Kheyl Wuzerees if the remaining murderers are not given up. Brigadier Chamberlain will remain for the present. Regrets that an expedition is necessary.

24. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 1 Apr 1860. Has no objection to Mr Barnes leaving the Punjab if Canning wishes for his services. The selection of Punjab officers for appointments elsewhere is a great encouragement to the rest. Would find it very difficult to replace Mr Roberts and Mr Davis, Mr Roberts would make an excellent Chief Commissioner, recommends him for such a post. Mr Davis is a most excellent Secretary

25. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 14 Apr 1860. Replies on the practicability of introducing Income and Licence Taxes in Bengal. Believes that the measure could be done without risk, if judiciously done, and if the people see that the Government are determined. Of late Montgomery has come to realise for the first time how much influence certain leading cities have. He had no idea before how much correspondence is carried on by the leading capitalists and influential men of the great towns with those of the secondary towns, on various proposals and changes connected with Government measures. There should be no hesitation or uncertainty in introducing the measures, and carrying them out with a strong hand. Endorsed: Copy sent to Mr Edmonstone 22 Apr 1860. See Governor General to Secretary of State dated 19 April 1860. Telegraph Messages Sent 752. Telegraph Messages Received 1151. Seen by Mr W Grey 25 May 1860.

26. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 25 Apr 1860. Thanks Lord Canning for his letter of 22 Apr. When Montgomery wrote on the 14th, he did not know that Sir C Trevelyan's Memorandum had been made public. Has never known a more injudicious act. Both the Madras and Bombay papers are now advocating Trevelyan's view. This act will make it much more difficult to introduce the taxation. Suggests deferring the introduction of the Licence and Income Taxes until Oct, in the meantime pressing on with the Bill, spinning out the details in Committee, but showing no signs of hesitation as to the Act being eventually enforced. Sir Charles Trevelyan's act may cause disturbances when the tax is introduced, and the European troops cannot move in the hot season except at great risk. If Trevelyan resigns, his successor will be nominated by the English Government, but Madras could be temporarily governed by Sir B Frere. It might be as well to move some Punjab troops to Madras in the cold season. Recommends the censorship of the native press. Montgomery does not allow the Punjab native press to comment unfavourably on taxation. Endorsed: Copy sent to Mr Wilson 29 Apr 1860; One copy made for mail dated 5 May 1860.

27. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 25 Apr 1860. Regrets to hear that Lord Canning is going to leave Simla; India cannot afford the risk of Canning being too ill to work at such a time. Asks him to defer his departure till the rains. The Mahsoods have attacked the Government force.

28. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 30 Apr 1860. Has sent a paper proposing certain chiefs and Sirdars being invested with powers. There is much quiet excitement about the taxes. In the Rawulpindee District they are circumcising hundreds of children to escape the tax which they say is to be put on circumcision. It is fortunate that India is disarmed, that there are no regular native troops on the Punjab side of India, and that if there is so good a European force. Has written his opinions on the Income Tax to Calcutta, would not tax incomes below 300 Rupees a year, 3% is better than 4%; and there should wide powers for the local Governments to make assessments in any way which seems best. Regrets Canning's departure from Simla very much.

29. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 20 Jun 1860. Has replied to Canning's cipher telegraph that as far as he knows there is no sort of dissatisfaction or treason in the Punjab. Is aware of the importance of not sinking down into acquiescence, his many sources of information all lead him to believe that there is profound peace in the Punjab. The powerful chiefs of the Cis Sutlej are delighted at the consideration shown them, and the rewards given them, by the Governor General. The powers conferred on the Sirdars in the Punjab have given great satisfaction. The harvest has been abundant and the country is prosperous. The native army is very small and there is an overwhelming European force. There seems to be a tendency among the Frontier tribes to become more united against the Government. They have a feeling that the British want to make them British subjects. Such a thing is opposed to Government policy, past and present, and they may be assured by the Frontier officers of this. Should trouble arise in Europe or Russia make great advances the frontier will be disturbed, and it should always be held in strength. Great vigilance should be used in dealing with the Sikh regiments in the Provinces, good officers are essential. Had heard that the 13th Punjab Infantry was misbehaving at Delhi, and has had the officers changed. Montgomery will have no difficulty in dealing with the taxation question when the time comes, but thinks the measure should be postponed until Oct. The Sikhs in China are writing home praising the liberal rations they receive and their good treatment generally. Endorsed: ‘Copy sent to Sir C Wood, 4 Jul 1860, and to Mr Edmonstone, 7 Jul 1860. See Governor General to Mr S Herbert, 4 Jul 1860, to Mr Edmonstone, 7 Jul 1860. Mr Edmonstone to Governor General, 15 Jul 1860’.

30. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 30 Jun 1860. Thanks Lord Canning for his kind consideration. Regrets that his letter has been disapproved of by Canning, and that Canning should consider he had caused his Military Secretary to be unjustly benefitted at the expense of the state. Can find no kind of discontent among the people.

31. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 11 Jul 1860. Suggests that Lord Canning's Minute contradicting the rumours of disturbances in the Punjab should only be published if there is much discussion of the topic, as it would make it appear that Canning was at variance with his Council. Montgomery is very anxious because the usual rains have not fallen, even in the Hills. Hopes Canning is satisfied that Scindia's alarm was a false one, the Punjab is profoundly tranquil. Suggests that in the annual relief of regiments, Her Majesty's 88th and the 13th Punjab Infantry be removed from Delhi. Fears there will be trouble about Railway matters in the Punjab, has sent off papers to Colonel Yule. The Agent should be suspended immediately. Mr Brunton's suspension was wholly undeserved, there was not the slightest reason for it, and the Railway staff nearly resigned in a body. Endorsed: Governor General to Sir C Wood, dated 20 Jul 1860.

32. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 20 Jul 1860. Thanks Lord Canning for writing a Minute to deny Sir James Outram's assertions of unrest in the Punjab, but thinks it better not published. There has been some but not enough rain. All is quiet and peaceful, at the end of Jun there were 156 lacs in the Treasuries. Endorsed: Extract circulated 31 Jul 1860.

33. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 1 Aug 1860. Has telegraphed that all fear of famine is gone, there has been sufficient rain. Had planned public works in case of famine, on canals, roads, and at all stations local committees were to organize work and food. The Punjab is full of grain. Both Mr Barnes and Mr Brandreth look gloomily on agricultural prospects. All is quiet. Endorsed: See Governor General to Sir C Wood 13 Aug 1860.

34. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 1 Aug 1860. Thanks Lord Canning for letting him see the Despatches to the Secretary of State on adoption. The great opposition to adoption began under Lord Dalhousie, who openly declared that the British should lose no favourable opportunity of extending their territory and increasing their revenue, because (as matters then stood) the Government had to pay for the military defence of the whole of India, whilst it did not enjoy more than half the revenue. Moreover it was argued that in times of difficulty the native states would be a source of weakness. Thinks the Mutiny should have shown the error of these opinions. The native states proved a source of strength not weakness. No further dependence can be placed on a native army as the foundation of British power, and unless the British uphold the native states and aristocracy there will be nothing between a foreign rule and foreign army and the dead level of an immense population. Such a position is fraught with political danger. To some of the principal states the right of adoption has already been conceded. Approves Lord Canning's course of settling the law in favour of the states, with precautions against misgovernment. Endorsed: See Governor General to Sir C Wood 13 Aug 1860.

35. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 13 Aug 1860. Writes regretting the death of Mr Wilson, an irreparable loss for India, and the death of Sir Henry Ward. Acknowledges receipt of Mr Thomason's memorandum on the famine of 1837 - 1838. The rains having come, it seems that the harvest will be an average one.

36. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 17 Aug 1860. Has sent an official letter denying the assertions of the Chief Justice, that the Punjab has from the first been subject to all the Regulations of the Legislative Council unless specially exempted; fears his reasons will not be accepted, as the Chief Justice is much more likely to be right. Is writing privately on the great evil of making the Punjab over to the Legislative Council. Does not think that the sending of one member from the Punjab to Calcutta could carry through the Council measures suited to the peculiarities of the Punjab. Already a strong feeling prevails in Calcutta against much that is done in the Punjab. Asks Canning to look at the results of 11 years administration in the Punjab, there is no more prosperous Province. Montgomery never introduces anything new into the Punjab without obtaining the opinion of all 10 Commissioners. The opinions are then submitted to the Judicial and Financial Commissioners and then come to Montgomery. Would not object to a local Council. Asks if a law could be passed exempting the Punjab for about two years from the Acts of the Legislative Council, and legalizing all that has been done.

36a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 29 Aug 1860. Sends a copy of a letter on the date of the introduction of Income Tax into the Punjab. Suggests that all Europeans be excluded until 1 Nov, the day on which Octroi duties cease. There will be no difficulty in introducing the Income Tax, though it may raise less than the Octroi. All is quiet in the Punjab. Paper annexed: copy of letter from R H Davies, Secretary to Government of the Punjab to the Secretary to Government of India Home Department advocating the delay in the introduction of the Income Tax until 1 Nov, as all classes in the Punjab, including the Europeans, are already taxed by the Octroi, which is equivalent to an Income Tax of 3%.

37. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 5 Sep 1860. Has not received the confidential circular mentioned in Canning's letter of 25 Aug. There will be no difficulty in carrying out the Income Tax. The improvement in the Licence Bill is a great advantage. No order has ever been issued by the Punjab administration that natives should salaam to Europeans. But Montgomery has seen in the local papers that such orders have been from time to time issued by Magistrates. At Mussoorie in 1858, and at Mooltan such orders were issued. Has written for information. (Marked in margin See Governor General to Mr Edmonstone 28 Sep 1860). Believes that orders were issued in the North West, perhaps at Cawnpore and Agra. The native newspapers have given prominence to the massacre of Christians in Syria by the Mahommedans. This will excite the border tribes. Any agitation in Turkey will lead to a response among the wild fanatical Soonee inhabitants of the Border. Captain James thinks that something is going to happen before long, he does not know what. Was glad to be able to tell Captain James how strongly Canning wrote about Teerah politics. Praises James, the incident has done him no harm. Asks what Canning thinks of James, who has had 20 years' service and holds perhaps the most important position of any officer, being given local rank. Praises Major Phayre, whom Montgomery knew years before.

38. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 20 Sep 1860. Sends a copy of an order by Brigadier Farquharson on salaaming. Brandreth knows nothing of such an order at Delhi, and there was none at Simla, but after the Mutiny such an order was put out at Umballa though it was not enforced and has been long since forgotten. Does not believe the Mooltan or Umballa order was known to Sir J Lawrence. Has received the letter about the Rifle Clubs, which is admirable. The independent Europeans give much trouble. There has been rain at Delhi, the country greatly needs it. Paper annexed: extract from Garrison and Station Orders by Brigadier G Farquharson, Commanding at Mooltan, 17 Dec 1857, ordering that native soldiers of all arms should salute all European officers, Civil or Military, in or out of uniform. All natives in Cantonment, whether Government servants or camp followers, should be required to salaam to all European officers and ladies, as was the former custom. Endorsed: Answered by Private Secretary 29 Sep 1860. The original letter is endorsed with a reference to the Private Secretary's correspondence no. 7725.

39. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 16 Oct 1860. Sends a Memorial (not annexed) from Mr Charles Raikes, who was considered an excellent officer. Describes his forthcoming Tour. He will go by camel carriage and the expenses will be low. The rains have failed, the great distress is from Amballa to Hissar and Delhi. If rain comes within the next four weeks to allow sowing the winter crop, the difficulties can be tided over with but little loss. Has called for reports, will arrange for work. As yet there is no distress in the Punjab proper, the country is full of grain which has been stored for years. Asks if Lord Canning will leave India at the end of five years, hopes for the sake of India he will remain another year. Personally Montgomery will much regret Canning's departure. Sir J Lawrence is much opposed to giving the Talookdars and Chiefs Judicial and Revenue powers; he is also opposed to Police Reform. Montgomery is sure he is wrong. The people would greatly prefer indirect taxation, and would pay much more by the Octroi than by the Income Tax. Endorsed: Governor General 1686a; Register Number 7683.

40. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 9 Nov 1860. Has sent an official report on the Sirdars. All have not yet been invested, partly because of the absence of several of the Commissioners and partly from the exchange of villages not having been made, so as to bring each estate into a ring fence. Has never doubted the wisdom of the measure, it is surprising it was not done before. It makes the leaders of the native community happy and contented, gives them something to do, some interest in the country, and elevates them in the eyes of their countrymen. There have been no objections from villages transferred from the Government to the Sirdar. The Sirdars will be more successful and more popular. Montgomery believes that the oppression through the Government court native officials and police is very great. Is afraid that more Europeans are needed to control the native officials. Agrees with Lord Canning that those who govern should see the country with their own eyes. The European official is bound to his desk, overburdened with details which little affect the welfare of his District. His native officials do just as they like meanwhile. Having European superintendence in the Police is a great reform, far more important than the separation or non-separation of judicial powers. Is going ahead with the reform in anticipation of sanction. Rejoices that Lord Canning may remain in India, for another year. If this news is confirmed, thinks it will be best to fill up the Commissionership reserved for Bowring, and provide another post later. Will be glad if Lord Canning will open the Attock Tunnel, it will probably be ready by Mar 1862. Thanks Lord Canning for his kind expressions. Proposes making Major Hutchinson, Officiating Military Secretary, head of the Police when he is relieved by Major Lawrence. Endorsed: extract made by order 24 Nov 1860.

41. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 16 Nov 1860. Asks Canning to deal with a confidential letter on the state of the Punjab Railway. Unless something is done immediately there will be a breakdown and all the shareholders will be ruined; it is all due to Mr Raeburn's interference. All is well in the Punjab, except for the Railway. Endorsed: Copy to Secretary of State, 3 Dec 1860.

42. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 24 Dec 1860. Has returned after an interesting Tour through the Dehruhjut, will send a copy of his Memorandum. Hopes to receive a survey of the Jhylum and Indus in Feb, makes suggestions about steamers, which would save money in carriage and strengthen the Frontier. English merchandise could be conveyed by water opposite to the passes leading to Central Asia, and the British could then undersell the Russians who are pushing their trade with great vigour. The peace and prosperity of the Frontier is remarkable. The Mahsoods do not trouble Government, though they have not yet given in. Has applied for 12 additional Extra Assistants. Is straining every nerve to save expenditure. Rain is anxiously awaited work is being given to the distressed districts. Asks Lord Canning to thank Lady Canning for her kindness to Lady Montgomery on her way to England. The Income Tax is proceeding successfully. Notices are only issued to Europeans.

42a. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 4 Feb 1861. Reports general rain throughout the Punjab, but it has not fallen sufficiently at Umballa, Thaneysur, Kurnaul and Delhi, nor at Rhotuck as far as the Lieutenant Governor knows. The loss of revenue now will be not more than 10 lacs, instead of the estimated 16 lacs. Mr Brandreth and Mr Barnes take unnecessarily gloomy views of the revenue. The Lieutenant Governor will sent in a few days proposals for reductions in the army in the Punjab, which will save 12 lacs or more. Hopes the Commander in Chief will make no objection and that if he does Lord Canning will overrule it. Is glad that Sir Robert Napier did so well in China, and has been offered a seat in Council. He is very popular in the Punjab, and was greatly loved by Sir Henry Lawrence. Hopes that Canning will remain in India.

42b. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 8 Feb 1861. Sends a proposal for the reduction of the Punjab Force (not annexed, marked Miscellaneous 951), comments. The saving will be 23 lacs, with some additional saving on the Police. Advises against keeping native troops at Delhi. Is paying great attention to the introduction of the new Police, his scheme will differ in a few points from the views of the Police Committee, asks Canning to judge for himself. Learns indirectly from some of his officers that they have been told by Calcutta that certain arrangements will not be sanctioned. This has been unsettling his officers. Will write to the same effect to Sir B Frere. Proposes to go to Delhi about the 18th.

43. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Kurnaul, 3 Mar 1861. Will release Mr Barnes at once. Is sure he will do his work well. Proposes to appoint Colonel Edwardes permanently to Simla, so that the acting appointment is of no consequence.

44. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 1 Apr 1861. Has written officially asking for permission to give small parts of land to the native officers of reduced regiments It is a matter of vital importance to the future of the Punjab. The native officers feel their dismissal very bitterly. Most of the officers of the regiments raised during and after the Mutiny are cadets of native aristocracy, and some most painful cases have come to the Lieutenant Governor's notice. Asks for discretion to make grants. 20,000 or 30,000 Rupees of lands would probably be enough. If it is to be done, it should be done at once. The land would be in addition to the gratuity. Comments on his Tour, and on the state of the crops. There will be no distress except in the Delhi and Hissar Divisions and that has been greatly mitigated by the relief. The experiment of Jaghirdar Magistrates is working well. Intends to go to the Attock Tunnel, to Abbottabad and to Murree. Endorsed: Governor General to Sir C Wood 10 Apr 1861; Telegraph Messages Sent 907

45. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 24 May 1861. Sends a memorandum on the Attock Tunnel (not annexed, marked 'with Mr Yule'). The Frontier is quiet. Occasional abductions of girls from both sides of the Frontier are generally settled without bloodshed, and will probably never cease. Is sorry that Colonel Taylor failed in his negotiations with the Mahsood tribes, and wishes that on Canning's departure from India there may be peace everywhere. Cannot think of Canning's departure without extreme regret. The late Financial Budget is very satisfactory. Asks why Canning destroys all his able men, as well as risking his own life by keeping them in Calcutta. Hopes that Mr Laing may recover; was shocked to hear of Barnes' death. The Punjabis are bearing the reductions well. The Lieutenant Governor is endeavouring to give out some of the waste lands near the canal on favourable terms to those who do not come under the liberal rule His Excellency sanctioned. The news from Europe suggests that all the soldiers available may be needed. The Punjabis would willingly garrison the countries near India, if this was acceptable to the British Government The drought makes it hot even in the Hills.

46. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 10 Jul 1861. Apologises for the delay in reporting about inheritance by primogeniture, the papers will be sent shortly. A large proportion of the Chiefs and Sirdars are in favour of primogeniture. Montgomery regards the question as an important one for the future of the country, and looks on a native aristocracy as a great bulwark to the state. Hitherto the British Government has acted on the principle of destroying every chief of note and bringing all to a dead level. Rejoices at the change of policy, which is a new era of Indian Government. Sir Henry Lawrence was always for it, Sir John always opposed to it. Had Sir John been in chief power in the Punjab at annexation there would hardly have been a Jaghirdar left. There has been good rain.

47. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 24 Jul 1861. Has sent the Treaty of peace with the Mahsood Wuzerees. Hopes it will be satisfactory and believes it will be satisfactory. Would be very pleased if the Governor General in sanctioning the Treaty, would allude to the services of the Punjab Force. The rain is plentiful. Many of the cattle died, all over the Punjab, and the ploughs are being drawn by men, mules, ponies and donkeys. The dismissed soldiers are taking well to agriculture. The native officers enlisted during the Mutiny are grateful for their land, for their retained rank, and for their arms. Has written to Mr Bowring about the unfortunate event at Peshawur, it was fortunate that Mr Tuting was not killed. The Lieutenant Governor has warned the missionaries privately not to preach in the streets in the Mohurrum. Has often wondered how they escaped. The original letter is endorsed with a reference to the Private Secretary's correspondence no. 9100.

48. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 26 Aug 1861. Has sent daily reports on the cholera outbreak at Meean Meer. It came on very suddenly and rapidly and in 14 days destroyed nearly of the Europeans. The disease was confined to the Barracks. In Colonel Irby of the 51st one of the finest soldiers in the Army was lost. There have been no cases in the Jail, and only two or three in the city. It is said that there are open cesspools close to the Barracks, over which the men sit, and this is probably the cause of the trouble. Inquiries are being made. Some say the cess-pools have been closed, but it is possible that the rains have caused the accumulation of years to taint the wells. Montgomery urged the General to move the troops out of the Barracks, but he delayed on various excuses. Praises Mr McLeod and Mr Hoggett the chaplain of Anarkullee for their behaviour during the epidemic. Sends a letter in confidence, which Mr Hoggett wrote after a visit to the hospitals, describing vividly the fearful scenes he witnessed. Has written a Minute proposing a Committee to report on the state of Barracks. The cesspool system is also bad at Meerut where the cholera has also been violent. Has given instructions to all officers commanding stations to prepare carriage for moving out of cantonments should cholera appear. Regrets the loss of so many gallant men. Praises Sir J Cotton for his aid. Has proposed in his Minute a civilian on the Committee, with Mr Hoggett in mind. Paper annexed: letter from Mr Hoggett to Sir R Montgomery, 21 Aug, on the cholera epidemic at Meean Meer.

49. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Murree, 31 Aug 1861. Sends another letter from Mr Hoggett. Praises the Civil Officers, especially Mr Egerton. The Hospital attendants were so reduced that female patients had to be attended by men; Mr McLeod sent up some Cashmere women from the City. Nearly 400 people have died. A vigorous General would not have listened to the medical men at such a time, especially as they know little about the disease, but would have at once evacuated the Barracks. Suggests that some shelter be provided about 8 miles from each station, to which soldiers could be at once moved on an outbreak. There are often old buildings which could be converted at little expense. The officers of Her Majesty's regiments new to the country and not knowing the language are very helpless when they move out of Barracks. The disease is now on the decrease. Difficulties have been made about the detachments moving daily, had this been done the result would have been better. The rains have been abundant, the crops exceptionally good. The distressed districts, with liberal aid and advances for seed and cattle, have nearly if not quite recovered. Paper annexed: letter from Mr Hoggett to Montgomery, Lahore, 28 Aug, on the cholera epidemic at Meean Meer.

50. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 3 Jan 1862. Thanks Lord Canning for his kind letter written on Christmas Day. Feels he should have offered to go to Calcutta to see Lord Canning, but was averse to the large society of Calcutta. Has been accustomed all his life to live in comparative retirement, and the only drawback to his present post is the publicity it necessitates. He will be very pleased to see His Excellency again, though under altered circumstances. Will bring Mr Davies with him, to speak on some points regarding trade with Chinese Tartary. Hopes that steam communication on the Indus will be forwarded by his visit to Calcutta. Had arranged to go to the Frontier, and hopes to be able to do this still, and that a week in Calcutta will suffice. Will be pleased to stay in Government House. Will write on the Legislative Council. During his absence Mr McLeod will do his work.

51. Letter from Sir R Montgomery, Lahore, 26 Feb 1862. Bids farewell to Lord Canning, and thanks him for all his kindness and consideration. The Governor General's policy towards the natives has been such that all regret his departure, and the spirit of loyalty amongst them is very different from what it was in 1856. Hopes that in England Canning will be able to ensure that the same policy is continued. There is a glorious future for the natives of India at a not very distant date. Lord Canning has been sorely tried both publicly and privately, Montgomery prays he may be spared long to serve his country. The Lieutenant Governor himself intends to retire in two years and if spared hopes to see Canning then. Will write from time to time. Lady Montgomery sends kind remembrances.