Mss Eur F699/1/1/1/15/4

Reports the arrival of news from Bushire. General Stalker has received the news of Sir James Outram's appointment without any feeling of vexation, and remains in command of a Division. Lieutenant Ballard has submitted a memorandum to Stalker on the difficulties of taking Shuster. Ballard and Stalker think the capture of Shuster ill-advised, Charles Murray on the other hand is delighted at the prospect. Lieutenant Ballard thinks the difficulties of the route to Shiraz have been exaggerated. Whichever route is taken, much cavalry will be required, and Elphinstone proposes to send 500 of the Poona and Southern Mahratta Horse under Colonel Malcolm. Hopes to be allowed to raise supernumeraries, who could replace the Sind Horse withdrawn from the Frontier.

Enclosed: Copy of a letter from Lieutenant Ballard to Lord Elphinstone, Camp near Bushire, 15 Jan. The appointment of Outram has taken everyone by surprise, but Ballard is sure the General has not the slightest jealousy of him. The feeding of the Cavalry reinforcements will be very difficult. Explains the difficulties of the Shuster Expedition. The soldiers have been amused by the Quarter Master General's order to survey the plateau of Kisht, as there are 6,000 Persians between the British and that place, more than ever expected. Until reinforcements arrive, the Expedition will have to remain cooped up in the Bushire peninsula. Believes that the direct road to Shiraz might be a possible route after all. Giri is the key point.