Mss Eur F126/3, ff 57-61

Letter regarding the likelihood of the Government (of Bombay) telling Colonel Herbert Disbrowe his presence at Muscat is not conducive to their interests; the Bahrain business and how it has proved the unwise decision to get rid of the Indian Navy, as well as the rumour that some new hybrid solution that is not quite Indian Navy and not quite Admiralty will be tried; and the frustrations at the ongoing decision to keep vessels of war out of the Persian Gulf and Red Sea during the summer.

The letter goes on to discuss Sir Seymour Fitzgerald (Governor of Bombay)'s policy on the Gulf and Foreign Policy in general; which it is believed Lord May (Viceroy) is in favour of; recent affairs in Kelat state and the actions of the Khan of Kelat in their regard.

The letter also discusses the wholesale retrenchment that has been occuring in India and Merewether's opinion that the hasty cuts that have been taking place, such as the stopping of important public works and the reduction of the size of establishments, will undermine British officials and the process of governing.

The letter concludes by reporting on the progress of the tour; the news that the recent Cholera outbreaks have almost completely cleared; the need to inspect parts of the canals which are in bad order; and their intention of returning to Kurachee [Karachi] in time to open the exhibition on 23 December.