The Life of the Marquis of Dalhousie, K. T (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1904 edition. Excerpt: ...proved to be friendly. Currie himself was more than once answerable for mistakes due to his not consulting the Government of India. There was therefore abundant justification for the self-assertion of Lord Dalhousie, when Lawrence sent to him the draft of his proposed proclamation. He replied at once: --I can by no means consent to the promulgation of it, and regard it as objectionable both in the matter of it and in the manner. In my conversation with you a few days ago, I took occasion to say to you that my mode of conducting public business, in the administration with which I am entrusted, and especially with the confidential servants of the Government, was to speak with perfect openness, without any reserve, and plainly to tell my mind without disguise or mincing of words. In pursuance of that system, I now remark on the proclamation you have proposed. It is objectionable in matter, because from the terms in which it is worded, it is calculated to convey to those who are engaged in this shameful war an expectation of much more favourable terms--much more extended indemnity of punishment than I consider myself justified in granting to them. It is objectionable in manner, because (unintentionally, no doubt) its whole tone substitutes you personally, as the Resident at Lahore, for the Government which you represent. It is calculated to raise the inference that a new state of things is arising, that the fact of your arrival with a desire to bring peace to the Punjab is likely to affect the warlike preparations of the Government, and that you are come as a peacemaker for the Sikhs, as standing between them and the Government. This cannot be. I cannot permit that any one word shall be said or any one act be done which shall give the faintest..