Mss Eur F699/1/1/2/27

Copies of letters from Governor General Charles Canning to the following correspondents: Hon. Frederick Wright Bruce, Hon. Charles Murray, Sir Henry Ward in Ceylon, Sir Michael Seymour, Sir John Bowring, Bishop of Colombo [James Chapman], Lord Elgin, General Thomas Ashburnham, Sir James Higginson [Governor of Mauritius], Sir George Grey, Sir William Denison, Mr Robert Gilmour Colquhoun [Consul in Egypt], Sir James Hope Grant, Sir Robert Napier and Sir Charles MacCarthy. Includes letters sent to correspondents in Cairo, Hong Kong, Singapore, Ceylon, Peking, Cape Town, Sydney and Mauritius.

Numbered 1-62, with index and detailed summaries.

1. Copy letter to the Honourable F Bruce, Cairo, 6 Mar 1856. Mr Maclean's opinion as reported in Mr Green's letter, although going against the proposed way of executing the scheme, may aid the scheme itself; a freshwater canal is more useful than a salt water one, and the Promoters, if they adopt his scheme, will be able to brag of irrigating and fertilizing, as well as navigating the desert. Canning does not believe the Congress of Engineers can put out a Report which will attract the necessary money. The 'Feroze' brings the reply about the loan of that vessel to Said Pacha. Canning hopes the ship will not be detained long by His Highness as she should go into dock before long. Private.

2. Copy letter to the Honourable C A Murray, Persia, 12 May 1856. Murray's present whereabouts are unknown. The Despatches which accompany the letter will enable Murray to repudiate absolutely all participation by the Government of India in the events which lately happened at Herat, including the presence of a pretended British Agent, and the display of the British flag. Private.

3. Copy letter to Sir Henry Ward, Ceylon, 9 Sep 1856. Canning is not surprised at the decision about the Chinese convicts, this is the proper decision for Ceylon. There is some different of opinion about the telegraph between Ceylon and India, the Directors think that Ceylon would benefit most, and that their offer to pay expenses midway across the Strait of Mannar was most generous. Ward thinks that Ceylon has no interest in a telegraph except between Galle and Colombo. Canning thinks that Ceylon would soon benefit from the telegraph, one of the first results would be to make Galle a port of call for the Indian trade. Before long there will be a wire between Rangoon and Calcutta. A modified proposal has been sent. Discusses the building of lighthouses, by Mr Poingdestre at the Basses, Ceylon, and by an engineer on the Alquada Reef, opposite Bassein. Lord Canning sees no prospect of leaving Calcutta at present. Lady Canning s accident was greatly exaggerated by the newspapers, and hardly deserved mention. Private.

4. Copy letter to Sir Henry Ward, Ceylon, 7 Dec 1856. The Governor General does not expect the troubles in the west will interfere with the telegraph, except that materials will be prepared more slowly in England. Dr O Shaughnessy who is very active, has acquired in England about 125 miles of wire, for lines already begun in India. The wire and cable for Ceylon are unlikely to be ready before the cold season of 1857. Affairs look ominous in Persia. Asks for information about the lighthouse works at the Basses. Private.

5. Copy letter to Rear Admiral Sir M Seymour, 20 Dec 1856. The Governor General thanks Seymour for the narrative of affairs at Canton. Regrets that he will be unable to send any troops from India to China, owing to troubles in Europe and Persia.

6. Copy letter to Sir John Bowring, Hong Kong, 20 Dec 1856. Bowring's Despatches arrived too late for the mail of 8 Dec but Canning telegraphed the main news, and the request for additional troops to Bombay to catch the mail there. Lord Canning regrets that he cannot spare any European troops, he is two regiments short of the complement of Queen's Troops. Three European regiments are already in the Persian Gulf, and more may have to be sent. The Resident at Hong Kong is willing to send 500 men of a Madras regiment if desired. The request for reinforcements will not reach England at a propitious moment, the return of the Indian regiments from the Mediterranean has been suspended, the reduction of officers is stopped, and the Fleet at Constantinople has been strengthened. India must have a large increase of European force for anything beyond coastal operations in Persia. The Cape is in an uneasy state and cries out for troops. The British are not out of the wood in Europe, and in Asia are only just getting into it. Private.

7. Copy letter to Rear Admiral Sir M Seymour, 20 Feb 1857. Canning as received Seymour's letter and Despatches of 14 Jan and also his letter of 23 Jan and notice from Singapore that the Governor had despatched all his available force to Hong Kong. It is clear that not only Singapore itself must be reinforced but that the Governor should be put into a condition to spare more-troops if required. A regiment of the Madras Native Infantry has sailed for Singapore; it had sailed when the Despatches came, or else it would have been ordered to Hong Kong. The 'Zenobia' is to be sent direct to Hong Kong, with as many men as she can stow, not more than 600 probably. Not a single European can be spared, India is short of its complement by two regiments. Three regiments are in Persia, and there is only one regiment in reserve for Outram. There is also a great shortage of steamers of light draft. Relations with France are improved, but the alliance is shaken, and Canning awaits with anxiety the line which Paris will take about Persia. Russia had said she will not support all the demands made by the British on the Shah.

8. Copy letter to Sir John Bowring, Hong Kong, 20 Feb 1857. The Governor General has received Bowring's letters and Despatches, including the letter describing the attempt on the lives of the community. Regrets that he despatched a native regiment to Singapore before hearing from Bowring; had there been time, he would have ordered the regiment to Hong Kong. Canning regrets that he cannot spare a single European soldier, or any steamer. There are only two vessels of the Indian Navy in the whole Bay of Bengal, and one of these, the 'Zenobia' has been sent with Native Infantry to Hong Kong. The Admiral has been asked not to detain the 'Zenobia', which can ill be spared from India.

9. Copy letter to the Right Reverend Bishop of Colombo, 21 Mar 1857. Lord Canning will have great pleasure in contributing to the Eton Studentships at St. Thomas's College. Regrets the waste in Persia of lives, time and resources, which should be used in India. Lieutenant Stewart, the best Engineer in matters of electric telegraph is being sent to Ceylon. Recommends the grant-in-aid system for education, if matters in Ceylon resemble those in India.

10. Copy letter to Sir H G Ward, Ceylon, 19 May 1857. The Governor General sends Major Bazely to Galle to obtain all the European troops Ceylon can possibly spare, and also the service of the regiments on their way from England to China. Bazely will probably meet Lord Elgin and General Ashburnham at Galle. Pleads great urgency. Ceylon will not have to pay any expenses.

11. Copy letter to Sir H G Ward, Ceylon, 19 May 1857. The Governor General asks for European troops in more formal terms than in the preceding letter). A mutiny has broken out at Meerut, and Delhi is in the hands of the mutineers, brief description. But it is not for these disturbances that aid is asked. In the valley of the Ganges, between Calcutta and Agra, there are barely 1,000 European soldiers in 750 miles, and the Government would be helpless against a mutiny here. Every day that Delhi remains in the hands of the mutineers is an encouragement to a rising elsewhere. Madras has sent the only European Regiment which it can spare, and two regiments will be taken from Pegu as soon as transport can be found. The European Force from the Persian Gulf cannot reach Calcutta for some weeks. The need is very great and very urgent. 500 soldiers from Ceylon would be of the utmost value, Canning asks for every man that can be spared. The bearer of the letter, Major Bazely, will arrange transport. The original letter is marked with a reference to the Private Secretary's Correspondence no. 2058a.

12. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 19 May 1857. Lord Canning hopes this letter will reach Lord Elgin at Point de Galle. He writes of the urgent need of European troops in India, and asks Lord Elgin to consider diverting the troops intended for China to Bengal. A mutiny has broken out at Meerut, and Delhi is in the hands of the mutineers, brief description. But it is to protect the valley of the Ganges that European troops are needed. Suggests that the delay in receiving troops might be fatal to the British in India, but only a temporary inconvenience in China. Lord Canning will take full responsibility of all the consequences of turning aside the troops from China to India. If the English regiments sail through the Straits of Sunda, and should not touch at Singapore, the request cannot be complied with until after Elgin has reached Hong Kong. In that case Canning begs Elgin not to act at once, but to await the receipt of a further letter. Major Bazely, the bearer of this letter, will give any further information.

13. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 19 May 1857. Lord Canning writes informally in support of his accompanying letter (number 12) requesting troops. The British hold of Bengal and the Upper Provinces depends upon the turn of a word, a look: an indiscreet act, or irritating phrase from a foolish Commanding Officer, may lead to a general uprising. The crisis will come in the next 10 or 12 days. Canning will not keep the troops one hour longer than absolutely necessary. If Elgin comes himself, he will be very welcome. Private.

14. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 19 May 1857. Owing to the uncertainty of Canning's letters coming to Elgin at Galle, Canning will send Despatches to Singapore and Hong Kong, and the latest news by each succeeding vessel. Will inform Elgin at once should the emergency pass. Private.

15. Copy letter to Major General the Honourable T Ashburnam, Galle, 19 May 1857. Canning has explained Major Bazely's mission in a letter to Lord Elgin; if Elgin is no longer at Galle, asks Ashburnham to open the letter. It contains an urgent request for the four regiments on their way to China. He need not emphasise the dangers in India, many of the stations having no European troops. Believes that the only evil of diverting the troops would be a delay in the proceedings against Canton. Has sent the request to Lord Elgin, as it is as much political as military; apologises if this was the wrong course.

16. Copy letter to Major General the Honourable T Ashburnham, Singapore, 22 May 1857. There is nothing of importance to report. General Anson has left Umballa for Delhi. There is mounting excitement in some of the native regiments which will last until an end has been made of Delhi. Even then it remains to be seen whether the proceedings there, which must be merciless, will intimidate or exasperate. The request for troops remains urgent. Everything is ready for the reception of the force in Calcutta.

17. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 22 May 1857. Affairs are unaltered; the Commander in Chief is en route for Delhi, with a sufficient force to crush the rebels. There is uneasiness and excitement among the native regiments on isolated stations. Canning hopes to hear of the 1st reinforcement from Madras this day. It will be more than a week before a 2nd regiment can arrive. Reiterates his urgent request for troops. The Governor General has directed the Governor of the Straits to take measures to stop the troops, if they are not expected to touch at Singapore, and speed them to Calcutta, as soon as he receives the sanction of Elgin and General Ashburnham.

18. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 24 Jun 1857. Elgin's letter by the Auckland has been received, but not that by Galle. Affairs have not improved. The inexplicable delay at Delhi has encouraged the rebellion, until the mutiny of a regiment is but a small incident in the general turmoil. The movement, Hindu in origin, has become more and more Mahomedan, and the Moslems are wildly excited by the declaration of a King in Delhi. Allahabad, the most vital place of all, is now secured to the Government The infection is spreading into Central India, where there is not a single European soldier. Renews his request for aid. If he can spare more than the force which is being sent in the 'Simoon', 'Himalaya', and 'Transit' Mr Blundell, or the naval officers in the Straits, should be given Elgin's authority to turn any subsequent ships to Calcutta.

19. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Hong Kong, 24 Jun 1857. With duplicate letter to Singapore. Lord Canning thanks Lord Elgin for his agreement to send the troops intended for China to India. The necessity is even greater than before. Her Majesty's Government have been asked to send out 12 regiments at once, but the request will not reach England until late July. Lord Canning asks for every European soldier that Elgin can spare. Asks for all the troops to be turned back from the Straits to Calcutta. Should the situation improve, Canning will not keep the China troops a day longer than necessary. Formal letter.

20. Copy letter to Major General the Honourable T Ashburnham, 24 Jun 1857. Returns thanks for the aid sent, and regrets that he must ask for more. Delhi unaccountably remains untaken. North of Benares neither Dawk nor telegraph works. Cawnpore and Lucknow are in great danger, Canning hopes that the column being collected at Allahabad will be in time to relieve them. Anarchy prevails at many places. The movements has become by now essentially Mahommedan. A strong force is very necessary; asks for every Englishman who can be spared, and Ashburnham himself. Anson is dead, Sir Patrick Grant will act as Commander in Chief.

21. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 29 Jun 1857. The Governor General has no decisive news. The moveable column will leave Allahabad to relieve Cawnpore and Lucknow on 30 Jun. There are fresh rumours of the fall of Delhi. In Central India the flames are spreading. There is trouble on the North Frontier of Madras, and in Bombay. The state of affairs is as critical as ever, and troops are urgently needed. Regiments and recruits are to be sent from England in Jun but they cannot reach India until Oct. Thanks Elgin very much for his letter via Galle.

22. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 21 Jul 1857. The present letter goes by the 'Fiery Cross' opium steamer to Hong Kong. The 'Simoon' and the 'Himalaya' have arrived. The situation continues to deteriorate, and Delhi is still untaken. More regiments have been called for from England, but troops are vitally needed currently. Asks for every European soldier who can be spared. Canning has asked the Governor of the straits to arrange for the troops on the 'Transit' to be sent to Calcutta, without delaying the passage of the 'Transit' to Hong Kong.

23. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 21 Jul 1857. In India the situation deteriorates, and Canning must repeat his appeal for troops. One success has been the recovery of Cawnpore, but not before the Rajah had committed the most terrible atrocities; described briefly. Central India has not one garrison that is faithful. Canning is now anxious for the Deccan and Southern India. He has asked the British Government for 39,000 Europeans, but this will take time. Sir John Bowring writes that there may not be war in China, Canning hopes this will enable Elgin to send more troops to India. Private.

24. Copy letter to Lieutenant General the Honourable T Ashburnham, Hong Kong, 21 Jul 1857. The Governor General writes of the increased necessity for reinforcements. Delhi was still untaken on 4 Jul, and the rebels had acquired many more men from other mutinied regiments. Havelock has recovered Cawnpore, but Wheeler's force was treacherously murdered. Lucknow is Havelock's next object. Sir Henry Lawrence has died. There is no good news except of the recovery of Cawnpore. A total of 38 more regiments have been asked for, but they will take a long time to reach India from England. Canning has sent for some Madras troops, whom he must trust whether he will or no; Sir Patrick Grant is very confident of them. Canning is more doubtful of the Bombay sepoys. Until regiments come from England, Ashburnham and perhaps the Cape, are the only sources of aid. The most urgent need is for Artillerymen.

25. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Hong Kong, 2 Aug 1857. Canning urges the necessity of reinforcements. No material success has been achieved at Delhi, where the rebels are constantly reinforced. Three regiments have mutinied at Dinapore, and compel Canning to retain the 5th and 90th Regiments in the Lower Provinces. Agra has been attacked and is still threatened. There is increased excitement among the Mahommedans in the Madras Presidency. Every day without a British success increases the dangers.

26. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Hong Kong, 2 Aug 1857. The news from India is increasingly bad. Three regiments at Dinapore in the heart of Bengal were to be disarmed, but they were so clumsily dealt with by General Lloyd that they broke away with most of their arms. They were pursued by a detachment, which was mishandled, with losses of 150 English and 30 Sikhs. Renews his request for aid. Sir Henry Barnard and General Reed are dead.

27. Copy letter to Sir James Higginson, Mauritius, 9 Aug 1857. Asks Sir James to consider favourably the formal request in an accompanying letter. The need for reinforcements is very great; rebellion has spread to Behar and Bengal, and if Delhi remains untaken, may spread to the Deccan. Canning believes the 33rd Regiment is in Mauritius, and perhaps the 4th Regiment. India is very short of Artillerymen and would welcome one company or more. There are plenty of guns in India. No families should be sent. Canning sends the best and fastest transport available.

28. Copy letter to the Governor of Mauritius, 9 Aug 1857. Urges the necessity for European soldiers to suppress the Mutiny, and asks for part of the garrison of Mauritius. Canning has received half the British troops in Ceylon, and all the Expeditionary Force recently sent out to China. The Governor of the Cape of Good Hope has also been asked for aid.

29. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Calcutta, 11 Aug 1857. Lord Canning accepts gratefully the offer of 'HMS Shannon' and 'HMS Pearl' with their crews. Sends a memorandum from the Commander in Chief (marked Miscellaneous 162 in margin) showing the value of the offer. Also accepts the 'Himalaya' and 'Simoon' for transport of troops. A suitable steam-ship will be provided to take Lord Elgin to China. Directions have been given to receive in Fort William the supernumerary Marines of 'HMS Shannon'.

30. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Calcutta, 28 Aug 1857. Canning thanks Elgin for the offer of the services of the 2nd Battalion of the Military Train brought by the 'Blervie Castle'; however this is not so far among the list of ships which are to be turned back at Singapore. The Military Train would be particularly valuable as Canning understands that all the men are used to the management of horses. From Calcutta to Delhi there are no European Cavalry soldiers, and the commanders have been unable to follow up their successes from want of cavalry.

31. Copy letter to Lieutenant General the Honourable T Ashburnham, Hong Kong, 28 Aug 1857. The Governor General thanks Ashburnham for his letter and the suggestions contained in it. Sends extracts from letters to the India Board for information about events (not annexed). Canning's greatest anxiety is now for Lucknow, where the horrors of Cawnpore may be re-enacted. The 'Blervie Castle' with part of the Military Train has arrived; Elgin has asked that the men be not sent up country until the mail from England comes in, with information about the British Government's intentions towards China. Canning feels that Ashburnham must wish India, Governor General and all, at the bottom of the sea.

32. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 2 Sep 1857. Canning will attend to Elgin's wishes about the Marines in Fort William, and the small detachment of the 59th Regiment, they will be despatched to Hong Kong as soon as they can be replaced. The 'Adventure' and the 'Assistance' should reach Calcutta shortly. The 'Shannon' and the 'Pearl' will be sent to the China Force as soon as they can be spared. Despatches from England show that the Government did not intend the Military Train to be turned aside to India; Canning hopes the officers responsible for the diversion will not be blamed, he is unwilling to lose the Military Train. The 'Blervie Castle' will be discharged at once. Ashburnham has sent two Companies of Royal Artillery in the 'Sanspareil'; a body of sappers and miners have been turned back at Singapore for Calcutta.

33. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Calcutta, 2 Sep 1857. Canning will send the Marines and the detachment of the 59th to China as soon as the 'Assistance' and the 'Adventure' arrive. Canning could send Bengal sepoys to China if required. Private.

34. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 19 Sep 1857. There has been no great change in affairs in India since Elgin left. Outram has telegraphed to ask if he may retain possession of Lucknow, were this to be possible, instead of retiring with the rescued garrison. There is unrest in Assam. Colvin at Agra is dead, and Canning has put in a military dictator in his place. Troops have been arriving, the 'Cleopatra' the 'Adventure' and the 'Mauritius'. There is news of the 'Penelope' being on her way with horses from the Cape. Canning does not intend to return the 'Pearl' yet; and he has kept the 'Sanspareil'. General Mansfield has arrived, an able and agreeable man; nevertheless those under him view his appointment as a grievance, and there will be much trouble from the new office. Sir Colin Campbell is cheerful as ever, but cannot stand attending the Legislative Council. He is now installed in Elgin's room, against his wishes.

35. Copy letter to Lieutenant General the Honourable T Ashburnham, Hong Kong, 19 Sep 1857. The Governor General reports the arrival of the Artillerymen on the 'Sanspareil'. The situation is little changed, the Bombay Cavalry is showing the taint, but there are hopes of Delhi, and Lucknow looks better. Outram is about to cross at Cawnpore, and with Havelock's forces has an effective small Brigade of all but cavalry. Outram talks not only of saving the garrison, but of holding the place. Bengal is still uneasy, and revenue and even food become more precarious. The blood-thirstiness of the Europeans especially of the idlers in Calcutta passes all bounds, only equalled by their cowardice when the disturbances first broke out. There is no-one to supersede Colonel Crawford. Hopes Ashburnham is not disgusted at the stoppage of his sappers. The 'Assistance', 'Mauritius', and 'Penelope' are close at hand, and the 'Cleopatra' has landed the Headquarters of the 23rd. The 'Adventure' will bring the detachment of the 59th to Ashburnham.

35a. Copy letter to Rear Admiral Sir M Seymour, 19 Sep 1857. Thanks Seymour for sending the 'Sanspareil' to Calcutta, the ship is being retained for the present. Part of her crew is to be used for 'HMS Shannon' to replace Captain Peel who has left for Allahabad with a Naval Brigade. The remainder of the crew of the 'Sanspareil' is needed to protect Fort William. A second Naval Brigade has been sent to Patna under Captain Sotheby, with men of 'HMS Pearl'. Canning hopes the absence of 'Pearl' from the China Force will not seriously inconvenience the Rear Admiral.

36. Copy letter to Rear Admiral Sir M Seymour, 19 Sep 1857. Explains the retention of the 'Sanspareil' (as in the preceding letter, number 36) and comments on the situation in India. The 'Penelope' is on her way from the Cape with horses for Calcutta, Canning wishes to keep her for a few weeks. He will write formally about the 'Sanspareil'.

37. Copy letter to Sir Henry Ward, Ceylon, 3 Oct 1857. At last Canning is able to write good news, Delhi is taken and the King is a prisoner. A few hours after this news, came that of the entry of Havelock's Force into the Lucknow Residency. The greatest dangers are now over. Canning does not anticipate military difficulties in Oudh, but the civil difficulties will be very great. An enormous mistake was made in the system of settlement in Oudh, which must be got out of with the best grace and least loss of dignity possible. There may be trouble in Rohilcund, Central India, and among the Coles and Santhals, but it is too late for them to do much mischief, as times go. There is a very formidable difficulty ahead, the spirit of vengeance among the Europeans. The 'Auckland' will wait at Galle for the wing of the 39th. The 'Cleopatra' is being sent to expedite the arrival in Calcutta of the troops from England. Captain Sir William Wiseman goes to Galle to superintend the transfer of he troops from the sailing vessels to the steamers. Lord Canning repeats his gratitude for the aid and sympathy given him by Sir Henry. The rebels of Delhi have been beaten by a force drawn from the Northern Provinces alone, and without the support of a single man from the regiments sent by sea. The honour of this belongs to Sir John Lawrence. The original letter is marked with a reference to the Private Secretary's Correspondence no. 2539a.

38. Copy letter to Sir George Grey, Cape of Good Hope, 8 Oct 1857. The Governor General writes of his deep gratitude for Grey's help in India's hour of need. The 'Himalaya' will bring news that the tide has turned. Delhi is recovered by the armies and levies of the Upper Provinces alone. The Lucknow Garrison is relieved, but the news of the last 12 hours brings anxiety about Outram and Havelock. The most urgent need is now for horses, asks for all that can be spared. Sir George will see by an official letter why Canning does not accept Sir George's offer to receive the sepoy regiments. Trustworthy sepoys are most valuable; the untrustworthy will be got rid of the moment the Government is strong enough to do so. Captain Travers will be treated with every consideration should his health fail.

39. Copy letter to Sir George Grey, Cape Town, 11 Oct 1857. The Governor General does not propose to send to the Cape any mutinous or suspected sepoys, but he would like to send the King of Delhi. Details of his capture are not accurately known, but it seems he was allowed to make conditions for himself which, contrary to the express orders of Government, were accepted by the officer who captured him. It seems he has been promised his life; if so, he must not be allowed to remain in India. Penang or Singapore are too near; the Cape would be ideal. It will be 2 or 3 months before the King is sent from Delhi to Calcutta, but once in Calcutta, Canning wishes to despatch him at once, and may do so before receiving Sir George's reply. There may be some legal difficulty but the King could be kept on board the vessel which brought him, until an Act of Legislature were passed. Canning has written privately owing to the uncertainty about the King's fate, and whether he was really promised his life or not. Private.

40. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Hong Kong, 3 Nov 1857. Lord Canning has ordered the 'Sanspareil' to rejoin the Fleet in the China Seas by request of Rear Admiral Seymour. The 'Assistance' is also to sail for Hong Kong. The Governor General regrets that he cannot see any prospect of sending European troops to China within any assignable time. The success at Delhi was complete, but Havelock's Force is now shut up in Lucknow. Not one European soldier can be spared, and the Government of India is anxious for other parts of the country. Offers to send a native regiment. Lieutenant General Ashburnham is expected in Hong Kong, and his advice will be sought. Lord Canning cannot regret that the Company of Engineers now at Cawnpore were turned aside from China, contrary to the wishes of Lord Elgin, Lieutenant General Ashburnham and Her Majesty Government's orders. It will not be possible to send to Hong Kong the Land Transport Corps. Lord Canning will send European troops to China as soon as he possibly can.

41. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, Hong Kong, 4 Nov 1857. The 'Sanspareil' and the 'Assistance' have sailed. The news is not as good as was hoped, with Outram and Havelock shut up in Lucknow. Describes the situation at Lucknow. Scindia's troops are planning to seize a strong post in Bundelcund. Delhi remained untaken so long, that disorder has spread widely, and nothing will restore order except the bodily presence of European troops over the whole country. This makes it impossible to say when India may be able to spare a single regiment. Ashburnham will be able to tell Canning Elgin's views on having a sepoy regiment Canning does not know what to do with Ashburnham or his staff. The Horse Guards and Panmure are making a hash of the nominations to India. Is sorry to hear of Elgin's ill health. Sends his regards to 'Joey' [the Honourable Frederick Bruce] who never sent the black leopard. Peel has done wonders in Allahabad, Canning would like to keep him for ever.

42. Copy letter to Rear Admiral Sir M Seymour, Hong Kong, 4 Nov 1857. The 'Sanspareil' was despatched without a day wasted. Canning is glad that Seymour does not demur at leaving the 'Pearl' in India; in proportion she is contributing as much as the 'Shannon'. The Marines are being returned. The news is not as good as was hoped at Lucknow. Canning is not able to send a European regiment and cannot say when he will be able to do so. The Governor General is very pleased with the work of Captain Key. He hears that three gun boats are to be sent from England to India; if these are the Despatch Boats they are useless. Asks what is the lightest draught of any of the gun boats of Seymour's Squadron, if they draw less than 3 or 3½ feet they could be useful in India when Seymour has finished with them.

43. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 22 Nov 1857. Sir Colin Campbell has rescued the Lucknow Garrison, against stiff opposition. The reduction of Oudh will not be the next task, as it needs a larger force than can at present be allotted to it. As the most critical part of the rebellion is generally thought to be over, Lord Canning has accepted Jung Bahadoor's offer of 8,000 or 9,000 Gurkhas, who will come down on Goruckpore. Canning hopes the Gurkhas will be accompanied by a strong European force after having settled affairs with the Gwalior and other rebels on the Calpee side; but fears Oudh will be difficult to clear. Sir Colin will now recross the Ganges and clear away the rebels who are threatening communications there; his wound is very slight. About 4,500 men are still expected from England within the next 3 or 4 weeks. Lord Palmerston and Vernon Smith write that no more can be done for the present, though small detachments may be sent via Suez. Apparently the Pasha is displeased because the troops which have already been sent through Egypt did not wear uniform.

44. Copy letter to Sir George Grey, Cape of Good Hope, 5 Dec 1857. The reasons why Canning has sent 'HMS Simoon' to the Cape will appear from extracts from official Despatches from England, also sent. Hopes for two more regiments from the Cape, discusses transport. If no troops are available, asks for horses. Most of the reinforcements have arrived from England (no papers annexed).

45. Copy letter to Sir George Grey, Cape of Good Hope, 5 Dec 1857. The King of Delhi was promised his life, and banishment is the chief penalty he can pay. Unless warned by Grey of some impediment, Canning will send the King to the Cape. However the country must be entirely under control, and a European escort furnished, before the last of Timour's dynasty is expelled from India as a rebel, an instigator of treason, and an abettor of murder. It will be two months before he can be brought to Calcutta.

46. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 18 Dec 1857. Canning has discussed the use of sepoys with General Ashburnham, and General Hearsey asked the 90th Native Infantry at Barrackpore if they were willing to serve in China; after the regiment had watched two men from another regiment blown from guns, they stepped forward as one man, cheering. They will be sent at the end of the month. The 43rd Native Infantry may volunteer, and if so will be sent. Sir Colin has done well at Lucknow, but nevertheless the British are obliged to withdraw from Oudh, except for a small division under Outram. Canning fears a long campaign in Oudh; hopes for another regiment from the Cape. Thanks Elgin for returning the 'Ava'.

47. Copy letter to Sir George Grey, Cape of Good Hope, 17 Jan 1858. Canning regrets that Grey's fears about Captain Travers were realised, and that Travers returns with the present letter. Sends the 'Lightning', a fast sailing ship; has no steamship suitable for horses at present. Is glad that Sir George has anticipated his demand for mules. Thanks Sir George for his reply about the King of Delhi, there could be no more suitable place for him than King William's Town. The revolt still continues in Oudh and Rohilcund, and is most formidable in Oudh.

48. Copy letter to Sir William Denison, Sydney, 30 Jan 1858. The difficulties in India are still great, although all opposition gives way to the European troops, the effect is not lasting. Rohilcund and Oudh are still out of British hands. Reinforcements are insufficient, and Lord Canning is unwilling to trust the Sikhs too far. He therefore takes Denison at his word, and sends the Megeera to bring back whatever force can be spared; he would have sent before, but that steam transport has been too precious to be risked on a mission which might be fruitless. Further transport may be needed, the winds will be favourable up the Bay of Bengal. Artillery harness is desirable, but guns can be supplied. Colonel Robbins' success is a great relief; it is certain that horses will be needed from Australia for two or three years to come, and perhaps a Depot will be established; asks for Denison's opinion. Hopes the birds have prospered.

49. Copy letter to the Earl of Elgin, 18 Mar 1858. Replies that the presence of Yeh will not be an embarrassment, he will probably be lodged at Alipore, with no great restraint put upon him. Policemen will guard him, and Major Herbert who has charge of the King of Delhi, will look after him. Congratulates Elgin on his successful disposal of Canton. The General writes nervously and is anxious for the 2nd sepoy regiment which has dwindled through desertion to a mere detachment, not yet embarked. The Commander in Chief is finishing off Lucknow, but Rohilcund and Oudh remain. Sir William Peel is reported wounded.

50. Copy letter to Sir George Grey, Cap of Good Hope, 30 Apr 1858. The Governor General thanks Grey for sending his best troops. The 73rd has arrived, and part of the 2nd Battalion 60th Rifles is expected immediately in the Australian. Returns thanks also for the horses sent. At present Canning will not ask Grey for the additional regiments. A copy of Grey's Secretary's official letter will be sent to the Court of Directors, with a grateful acknowledgment by the Government of India of the aid given by the Cape.

51. Copy letter to the Honourable F Bruce, Hong Kong or Shanghai, 22 Sep 1859. Canning replies that he will do his best for Bruce, he owes him a debt for two years ago. The 67th start by steam that day; the 3rd (Buffs) will follow, and also a company of sappers. Directions from England are needed before further troops are sent. Very little naval support can be sent from India. Canning begs Bruce not to let anyone at all detain the steam transports, the non-relief of native regiments between Bengal, Madras and Pegu would be dangerous. Captain Lacy of the 'Adventure' learnt from a French gun-boat that in consequence of the news from the Peiho the French expedition against Cochin China was to be broken up, and some of the troops were to go to Canton; this is why Canning is sending two regiments not one. Thanks Bruce for copies of his Despatches. The miscalculations of the forces required will be the first thing criticised, and this is not Bruce's fault. Bruce may be blamed for not acting upon the Governor General of Pechetis' (?) letter. Comments. Canning does not think the Government (of Britain) will last through 1860, though they are well united as yet. Canning is about to go on tour, and hopes to spend the hot weather at Simla. Captain Lucy does not believe the report that the American Minister has reached Pekin. Private.

52. Copy letter to R G Colquhoun Esquire, Her British Majesty's Agent and Consul General, Egypt, 26 Dec 1859. A letter asking for aid and facilities for the bearer, Major Greathed, Bengal Engineers, who is studying engineering works in Egypt.

53. Copy letter to Lieutenant General Sir J Hope Grant, Hong Kong, 9 May 1860. Canning is glad to hear that the British have the greater force, notwithstanding the early arrival of General de Montauban on the scene. Hopes the Despatch about the excessive number of troops will not trouble Hope Grant; it was not until most of the troops had been sent that Canning was told of the agreement with the French Government limiting the force to 10,000. Bruce has done well in securing the Kowlong Peninsula, comments. Canning is disturbed to hear that the French do not intend to begin operations until the middle of Aug. Lord Clyde is about to go home; Sir Hugh Rose will come to Calcutta, and General Mansfield will take command in Bombay. Both Canning and Clyde have been reproved from home for sending too large a force to China.

54. Copy letter to Lieutenant General Sir J Hope Grant, via Hong Kong, 17 Oct 1860. Canning thanks the General for the account of the expedition. Hope Grant has done brilliantly, in spite of difficulties with the French. The Government at home is still reproaching Canning for the extravagance with which they think the expedition was organized. Asks for a confidential opinion on the behaviour of the native troops. Awaits anxiously news from Pekin. The General's brother has just painted a picture of Lord Clyde for Lord Canning.

55. Copy letter to Major General Sir R Napier, via Hong Kong, 17 Oct 1860. The Governor General thanks Napier for his news from Gankoo. The native troops have done well, and are, according to their letters home, quite contented. Canning is proud of his own action in appointing Napier.

56. Copy letter to Sir Charles McCarthy, Governor of Ceylon, 22 Apr 1861. Lord Canning writes that the Maharajah Duleep Sing is about to return to England, and will spend about a fortnight in Ceylon. He is entitled to a salute of 21 guns, and to be received with honours.

57. Copy letter to the Honourable F Bruce, Hong Kong, 21 May 1861. Canning sends two official letters (not annexed) about travellers in China; the Treaty, and the settlement with Sikkim, and the new attitude of the authorities at Lhassa have encouraged adventurous officers to go touring. Canning has asked for passports for the officers only, imagining servants and followers may be included. Remarks on the 'Old one' who has had an oration at Dover; is he to succeed Canning in India? Canning knows nothing of his successor, save that he will be released in spring 1862. He hopes to leave a peaceful, financially stable country. Is it true that the expedition up the Yangtse Kiang found widespread poppy cultivation, producing very fair opium; Canning does not expect the present enormous prices to last. Marked: Miscellaneous 653 [see Private Secretary’s Miscellaneous Papers Mss Eur F699/1/2/6/68, item 653 for newspaper cutting on growth of opium in China].. Private.

58. Copy letter to Sir C McCarthy, Ceylon, 8 Aug 1861. Asks if Major Seymour Blane, Her Majesty's 52nd Regiment, a Staff officer, may be admitted to the Legislative Council's proceedings in Ceylon, to report on the manner and forms in which business is conducted.

59. Copy letter to the Honourable F Bruce, Pekin [Peking, China], 16 Aug 1861. Canning thanks Bruce for the good news from Pekin. Canning has just heard that Elgin is to be the next Governor General. Canning hardly knows whether to congratulate Elgin and Bruce, it seems almost too solemn for rejoicing. Private.

60. Copy letter to Sir C McCarthy, Ceylon, 23 Sep 1861. The Governor General returns thanks for the kind treatment of Major Blane who has brought much useful information. Lady Canning thanks McCarthy for the beautiful box he sent. Lord and Lady Canning hope to visit McCarthy at Kandy, on their way home. Marked: Governor General 2089; Miscellaneous 726 [see Private Secretary’s Miscellaneous Papers, Mss Eur F699/1/2/6/77, item 726]. Private.

61. Copy letter to Sir C McCarthy, Ceylon, 10 Jan 1862. Lord Canning is now anxious to return to England as quickly as possible, and regrets that he cannot now visit Sir Charles and Lady MacCarthy. He will remember gratefully the kind invitation. Marked: Governor General 2126. Private.

62. Copy letter to R J Colquhoun esquire, Her Majety's Agent and Consul General, Alexandria, 19 Feb 1862. Canning expects to be at Suez about 6 Apr and looks forward to meeting Colquhoun again. Canning does not wish to stay in Egypt longer than necessary and he would like to avoid all ceremonies, though not at the expense of proper courtesy to the Viceroy. His help to India in 1857 has not been forgotten. Lord Harris may meet Canning at Alexandria or Cairo, encloses a letter for him (not annexed). Canning will be accompanied by four officers of his Staff or Household.