Mss Eur F699/1/1/1/13/22

Canning is involved in sad and serious work. Hopes that he will be able to bring the affair to a successful conclusion. It is difficult to report the state of Madras, there are such contradictory accounts. The 'Mussulmen' [Muslims] are disaffected and ready for mischief, if they dared move. The Hindus will probably take no active part against the British, unless they are very much reduced. The sepoys, Harris believes, do not sympathise with those in Bengal and would not be sorry to act against them, but he could not recommend the experiment, as the Madras sepoys are very discontented. They have been marched and counter-marched and over-worked and run into debt. There has been some foolish talk among the sepoys, and among one or two of Harris' body-guard, but nothing of which any notice can be taken. He has also heard that the Wing of the 43rd at Bangalore is ready to move, but he does not know why. No greased cartridges have been issued. Some papers are being sent on the state of the Madras army. Has just heard of General Anson's movements. Asks why the Court Martial Act was limited to Bengal. The telegraph line between Agra and Calcutta has been interrupted for the last few days. Supposes that Elgin will not hesitate to send his Force.