ASIA -??f^< iiWP mim:^sssm^^:^xv9-Si Mmmm' !;<<;■, t )l) S-- c^" ;^ * 'J (A^t^erv^ 3tl|ata, 5J«m ^ork CHARLES WILLIAM WASON COLLECTION CHINA AND THE CHINESE THE GIFT OF CHARLES WILLIAM WASON CLASS OF 1876 1918 DS 785.G78 *" ""'""^'^ "-ibrary ^"7mm&MS^Z%SSS<^>''9. Centra 3 1924 023 437 456 ^^ Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924023437456 CORRESPOyPBNCE RESPE CTIITG BR ITISH A F F A I R S IN CENTRAL ASIA 1879-1880 THE PRIVATE COLLECTION OF CHARLES W. WASON CLEVELAND: 1918 CONTENTS Further Correspondence respecting Central Asia. 1879. Further Correspondence respecting Affairs in Central Asia. 1880, CENTRAL ASIA. No. 1 (1879). 0f.aiJr. T^.-i^.f- ^-j^- FUETHKR CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING CENTEAL ASIA Presented to both Houses of Parliament by Command of Her Majesty. 1879. LONDON: PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS. [C— 2209.] Price 2d. r^\^ 0\{\i\iLU t TABLE OE CONTENTS. 10 II 13 14 :vo. Name 1 Lord A. Loftus 2 Mr. R. Thomson 3 »> J) 4 J? it 5 9t >S To Lord A, Loftus , Count Schouvaloif To Count Schouvaloff To Lord A. Loftus fTelegraphic) Lord A. Loftus . . . • Date. Dec. 4, 187S Oct. 1-1, 28, 29, Nov. 6, 6, Mr. R. Thomson Lord A. Loftus (Telegraphic) Dec. 13, 19, 19, 19, 20, Jan. 1, IS79 16, 15, Subject. Account in "Golos" of the reception of the Russian Mission at Cabul . . . . . . Retreat of the Russian expedition from Khoja Kaleh to Chat . . . . . . . , . . Reports from Meshed and Asterabad Agents as to movements of Russian expedition Fort established by Russians at Chat. Proceedings of the Turkoman tribes Further accounts of the Russian expedition Reporis from Meshed Agent of events in Afghan- istan, and proceedings of Turkomans. Arrival of Sirdar Iskender Khan in Khorassan Conversation with Count Schoilvaloff as to continued presence of Russian Mission at Cabul ; and as to the engagements taken by England respecting Alghanistan Russian Government are prepared to withdraw their Mission from Cabul. Inquires whether Her Majesty's Government recognize the engagements entered into with regard to Central Asia Presence of Russian Mission at Cabul is the only obstacle to revival of understanding between the two Governments in regard to Afghanistan and Central Asia Instructions sent for withdrawal of Russian Mission from Cabul Letter in " Golos" from Cabul .as to reception of Russian Mission . . Account in " Moscow Gazette" of march of Russian expedition from Petro- AlexandrofFsk . . Russian detachments at Chat surrounded by Turko- mans Article in " Journal de St. P6tersbourg" as to inten- tion of Ameer to invite the mediation of Europe . Page 10 10 11 11 12 13 14 Further Correspondence respecting Central Asia. No. I. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 9.) (Extract.) St. Peter sburgh, December 4, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship an article, in translation by Mr. Michell, from the " Golos," relating to the reception of the Russian Mission at Ca^ul by the Auieer of Afghanistan in Uurbar. Inclosure in No. 1. Extract from the " Golos " of November ^-|, 1878. THE "Golos" of the ^^th November, 18?8, contains the following particulars, contributed by its Orenburg correspondent, respecting the reception of the Russian Mission by the Ameer at a Durbar held by him at Cabul : — "The Ameer summoned a Durbar at Cabul of 250 loyal Chiefs of tribes. The conference was held under tents specially erected. The day following the arrival of the Chiefs, the War Minister having reported that nearly all the Chiefs had assembled, the Ameer proceeded to the camp where the Durbar was to be held, accompanied by his suite, numbering about 100 persons, consisting of his Ministers, Generals, and principal Uleraas of Cabul. The Ameer was enthusiastically received by the Chiefs, who crowded round their Sovereign with demonstrations of love and respect. " The Ameer told them that the Russian Emperor Alexander had sent a Mission-. to Cabul for the purpose of strengthenitig the bonds of friendship which had long existed between Russians and Afghans. As Russia had always shown hospitality towards the Afghans who frequented with their caravans the Russian markets at Troitsk and Orenburg, at a time when Afghanistan was but littJe known toother European nations, he, the Ameer, considered it his duty to give a hearty welcome to the Russian Mission, and to receive* it with due honour. " This declaration of friendship on the part of the Ameer towards his Russian guests at Cabul called forth enthusiastic and approving exclamations from the Chiefs present at the Durbar. After this short speech the Ameer ordered his seal-bearer to read a concise Memorandum on the power, glory, and extent of Russia, her troops and subjects, in order that the Afghan Chiefs could be able to form a correct idea of the Power of which Representatives were then at Cabul. The concluding speech of the Ameer was- as follows : — " 'Return to your brethren, sharpen your knives and lances, and saddle your horaes, so that you may be ready to take the field so soon as I shall call on you to fight the enemies of our country.' " The Ameer then left the camp and returned to Cabul. The two following sessions of the Durbar were devoted to an examination of the mihtary budget of the country, the distribution of the regiments, a consideration of the forces available for a war with England, and the necessary measures to be adopted for supplying the troops with food and .provender. The Ameer was not present at these last two assemblies, which were presided over by the Afghan War Minister. With regard to the stay of our Mission at Cabul, it •is known that the Ameer lodged his dear guests in his best palace, or in the Modul Hissar, [246] B 2 • 2 foptnei-ly occupied by his son Yakub Khan, and endeavoured to surround them with every comfort, and to show them every attention ; the warmest welcome was accorded to them without stint of expenditure, notwithstanding the supposed unsatisfactory condition of the Afghan finances. Hunts were also organized for the members of the Mission, and the tnost remarkable mosques of the city thrown open to their inspection. Whenever the Russians visited these places the natives followed them in crowds along the streets with demonstrations of joy, and threw their caps into the air. After the departure of General StoletofFto Livadia, Colonel RozgonofT took his place as Russian Representative, and he bas already succeeded in gaining the goodwill of the inhabitants of Cabul." No. 2. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salishunj. — (Received December 12.) My Lord, Tehran, October 14, 1878. I HEAR from the Asterabad Agent, that on the retreat of the Russians from Khoja Kaleh to Chat they had to fight their way through the T^ke Turkomans, who succeeded in cutting off a large caravan of provisions coming trom Kiasnovodsk, Since arriving at Chat General IJamakin has retired to Chekishler, having left small detachments at Chat and Bavat Hadji. On this further retreat he was again attacked, with loss. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 3. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — [Received December 12.) (Extract.) Tehran, October 28, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith copies of Reports from the Meshed and Asterabad Agents, and of a private letter from Asterabad, on the subject of the movements of the Russians and other matters of interest. Inclosure 1 in No. 3. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. O'TranslatJon.) (Extract.) * August '3], 1878, THE people of Mcrv are much alarmed at the advance of the Russian troops upon the Akhal country. About twenty days ago twelve Elders of the Saryk tribes petitioned the Khorassan Government to allow them quarters, so as to enable them to quit Pendjeh and become Persian subjects. The people of Akhal also are in great alarm on account of the approach of the Russians. There is no news from Seistan except that the roads of Yezcl and Ivernan have become nnsafe through the Beloochees having taken advantage of Sirdar Taj Mohammed Khan's escape from Tehran. I was with the Prince Governor the day before yostcrdav when Yar Mohammed Khan's letters arrived. He reported thai twelve regiments and twelve guns had arrived wth the Russian General at Chat, and that they intended l)uilding a fort between Kizil Arvad and Karee Kala, and then advancing to Gcuk Tuppeli, which is in ihe centre of the Akhal country, and after erecting a fort there also, they would remain there. It is said that the people of Merv wili not submit to Persia after all, and that there was a rumour that they are going to send out horsemen on a raiding expedition. I think that in reality thev are going to send assistance to the Akhal Turkomans ; and as this is against the wish of the Persian Government, they have declined to submit to them; in fact, the only reason for their ofler of allegiance was that they hoped to obtain their protection for the whole Turkoman community against Kussian invasion. A correspondent from Boojnoord writes, under date of the 26th instant, that three cays previously a Russian interpreter came there from the Russian camp with ten Yemoot and Kara Kaleh horsemen ; that the whole number of the Russian troops is 25,000 men ■ of these 12,000 were to have arrived at Khoja Kalch on the 31st, with 1,00) horse and 3 thirty guns; that two of the guns are of a heavy calibre and twenty-eight of small bore. Every twenty-five men have one hut and every 200 a kitchen. The remainder of the troops remain at Krasriovodsk and Ghekishler. The troops are going to Bam and Boormeh; not to Kizil Arvad, as it appears that the people of Kixil Arvad have submitted. They have obtained 5,000 camels from the Yemoot tribes, 3,000 of which are purchased and 2,000 hired at 5 tomans a-piece. The Yemoot tribes have submitted, and their horsemen are doing duty in the Russian camp. Only 303 families claimed to be Persian subjects-. These were told that they must quit their present quarters and go to the Goorgan valley, v^hich they have accordingly done. Kerum Dondee Eeshan ftnd the other Teke Chiefs arrived at Boormeh from Bala; Horsemen are also continually arriving. It seems as if a fight were likely to take place. It has been decided also that the property of any Chief not coming in is to be given up to plunder. The price of grain there is 6 tomans the kharvar. Inclosure 2 in No. 3. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. S5 (Translation.) :(Extract.) September 22, 187S. THREE days ago the Governor of Ka\'n wrote to the Prince Governor, saying that if 600 horse, 2 regiments with guns and ammunition, were not sent to him without delay, Seistan would be lost to Persia, aud he would not be responsible for what might happen, because for the last two months he had been continually applying for reinforcements, and none had been sent; and that on the 12th he had received intelligence that Sii-dars Taj Mohammed Khan and Shereef Khan, together with the followers of Sirdar Ibrahim Khan, Belooch, and other turbulent characters had entered Seistan and taken possession of all the forts except that of Husseinabad, which was being held by the Kain people. Seven days ago Dowlet Murad Khan, nephew to Allahyar, the Governor of Derehgez, who quitted that place about seven years ago because of his uncle's oppression, and had become n, resident of Meshed, suddenly left. In my opinion he has not the means of taking Derehgez, but should he attempt it and fail, he may go over to the Russian camp, and in that case the Russian General will have the advantage of an able and well-informed Chief. One of the two regiments, lately despatched from Tehran, on arrival at Sabzewar was ©rdered to proceed thence to Seistan. On the 21st news was received that Dowlet Murad Khan, not being able to make a stand against Derehgez, has escaped to the Koochan frontier, and to all appearance he is going to join the Russian General. Mirza Khanler Khan, formerly Foreign Office Agent in Ghilan, Asterabad, is the person appointed to proceed to Cabul on a visit of condolence, and to ask that Sirdars Shereef Khan and Taj Mohammed Khan should be given up to Persia or removed from the frontier. A correspondent at Herat writes to me on the 1 Ith that the usual prayers and lamentations were held for three days on the occasion of Abdullah Jan's death. It appears that the Heir-Apparent had been unwell for some lime, and that several days previous to his death he was attacked with typhus fever and other diseases to which he succumbed. The two Russian officers who are on a mission to the Ameer were still there when he died. The day that these officers arrived, the Ameer received them with much honour and distinction, all the troops and artillery were sent out to meet them, and salutes were fired. As yet the nature of their mission is unknown, but there is a rumour that they have asked leave to build cantonments for their troops at, two places, one at Herat, and another ^somewhere) in Turkestan. The correspondent states that he will have authentic intelli- gence of their doings in another mdnth, as some of his friends will return to Herat from Cabul by that time. He also adds that great changes will take place in the internal administration of the country on account of the Heir-Apparent's death. He states that the English authorities are engaged in building cantonments, &c., at Chalcote, that the people of Candahar bring provisions to the camp, work for them, and none of the Afghan authorities interfere. It is said that Russian troops have entered the city of Bokhara, and have deprived the Ameer of all interference in official matters. A correspondent at Serrekhs writes to me on the 16th that as Kousheed Khan's son asked for a considerable sum frotn the Prince Governor to transport his tribe from Merv, and had received no answer, he was disappointed, but NasruUah Khan then agreed to pay him 1,000 tomans provided he gave ten hostages, would hoist the Persian flag, and bring his tribe ; that the Khan demurred at giving hostages and returned to Merv ; that the Oeteraish tribe had addressed a petition to the Prince Governor sealed by Taj Sirdar, Beg Murad Khan, Aman Neeyaz Khan-i-Seechmaz, Saree Bater, Saree Beg-i-Zakhsliee, and Araz Murad Khan, saying that they would come and bring twelve guns ; that Kousheed Khan's son had started without' their knowledge, and the 200 horsemen who accompanied him were useless characters ; that in fact one of them, Shalka Sirdar, was a person who some time ago made an attack upon Serrekhs, and had killed several persons in the attack ; that he ought, therefore, to have been seized by the Persian authorities and put to death. Inclosure 3 in No. 3. The Meshtd Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) Extract.) September 28, 1878. I LEARN that about 2,000 Barbaree families, having sold and disposed of their lands and property in the nei2:hbourhood of Herat, iatended emigrating to Persia, but the Herat authorities sent horsemen after them and made them return. An Afghan merchant, who recently came in from Bokhara, reports that 10,000 Russian troops came as far as Kirkee and Fergan and returned. He also reports that tie Russian General asked the Ameer to give up Kirkee to them, but he replied that he had already given it to the Ameer of Afghanistan ; that the Russians have dispatched an agent to Cabul, and the chief of the troops was briskly engaged in procuring waterskins and other necessary articles from the Ruler of Bokhara. Dowlet Murad Khan, nephew to Allahyar Khan, the Governor of Derehgez, has again returned with a number of the inhabitants of Koochan, and has stationed himself at the Fort of Naubandan, a stronghold west of Derehgez, and he may cause great incon- venience in Allahyar Khan's Government. Although the local authorities have sent 300 horsemen to his assistance, yet it would appear that secretly they are encouraging Dowlet Murad Khan to rise against his uncle. The Itimad-es-Saltaneh has been appointed Chief of the Forces to be sent to Seistan ; he starts about the 4th or 5th October with 600 horse and two regiments of foot, one of which had already started from Sabzevar. Thirty thousand cartridges and two rifled guns, and other stores and ammunition, will also be sent after him if found necessary. Up to the present time the Persian authorities have spent 9,000 tomans for this expedition. Two regiments from Kerman are also to join him. Mirza Khanler Khan, the Agent appointed to Cabul, has received 700 tomans on account of his journey, and starts with the Itimad-es-Saltaneh. I hear from Boojnoord on the 14th that the Russian troops, 12,000 strong, arrived at Bam and Boormeh, that the Teke Turkomans, as far as the Fort of Barzan, had submitted, but the Chiefs beyond that place were prepared to fight. One hundred and fifty families of the Yemoot tribes have taken service with the Russians, each family being paid 10 tomans a-month. Inclosure 4 in No. 3. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) October 5, 1878. NASRULLAH KHAN, the Persian Agent for arranging the allegiance of the Metv Turkomans to Persia, having finally failed, has returned to Meshed. 1 received a message from Boojnoord, saying that the last news respecting the Russian occupation of Bam and Boormeh was premature. Intelligence has been received that the Tek6 Turkomans have caused the Russians, to retreat towards Chat, and attacked them with 500 horse. Dowlet Murad Khan has made an attack on Allahyar Khan at Derehgez, in whicli twenty lives were lost. The former is in force and stationed at Naubandan. Some of the Turkomans from Ishkabad, &c., have joined him. The local Government sends verbal promises of support, but nothing further. The troops of Seistan are encamped at Takhta, and will start in a few days. The Persian Agent to Cabul vyjU start at the same time. He ;has telegraphed for a further grant of 300 tomans, saying that ^he previous grant of 700 tomans has all been spent in, making preparations for the journey. The Akhal Turkomans having asked for aid from those of Merv, they replied that they had first to repair the dam carried away by the water, and finish their negotiations with Persia. Inclosure 5 in No. 3. The ^eshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Ti-anslatioa) October 12, 1878. TWO days ago an Afghan merchant came in from Herat. He reported that intelli- gence had been received there that a considerable body of Turkomans had come with tlie object of making a raid in the Herat territory, and plundering all caravans coming and going from that place, and that therefore a caravan which bad intended starting for Meshed had been delayed and detained only 6 farsakhs from Herat. He also said that the inhabitants of a village near Cabul had revolted, and Ameer Shere Ali Khan had dis- patched a regiment of infantry and four guns, under the command of Sirdar Abdullah Khan, former Governor of Herat, to suppress the revolt. The Commander-in-chief at Herat is very much disturbed as to the future, as he wjis one of the adherents of the late Heir-Apparent. The Governor, Sirdar Mohammed Omar Khan, is sure of his tenure of office. Before the Ramazan festival (1st Sharval) he sent and asked of the Ameer whether it was to be celebrated or not. The Ameer replied that, only an Heir- Apparent had died, and if he chose he could appoint 100 of them in an hour^ therefore he was to celebrate the festival more grandly than on previous occasions. This was accordingly done. The rice crops are better than in former years. Kice is selling at 2 tomans akharvar, whilst wheat costs 3 tomans. Two days ago two men came in from Merv, bringing petitions from all the Turkoman Chiefs, saying that they were sorry that they had delayed in submitting to Persian rule, but now they are arranging to send ten or fifteen of their Elders as hostages for their good conduct, but that 1,000 tomans was necessary to transport their families ; if that sum was granted their Elders would come. The Prince Governor has accorded their request, and written to them in that sense to-day. The Itimad-es-Saltaneh left with his troops from Seistan on the 9th instant. There IS a rumour that the people of the Hishmet-ul-Mulk (Governor of Kain and Persian Seistan) had killed and wounded about twenty-five followers of Sirdar Taj Mohammed Khan, and that a considerable number of the inhabitants of Seistan and Beloochistan have collected together. Three days ago news was received that Allahyar Khan left Mohammedabad with his horsemen to fight Dowlet Murad Khan. After going a short distance, Dowlet Murad Khan's horsemen, who were lying in an ambush waiting for those of Allahyar Khan, suddenly rushed out, when several of Allahyar Khan's men deserted to Dowlet Murad Khan's side. Allahyar Khan, seeing this, became alarmed lest all his horsemen intended to do the same, and immediately fled direct to Kelat. Dowlet Murad Khan's cause has thus been strengthened. To-day intelligence was received that Dowlet Murad Khan had seized Mohammedabad and all the property belonging to Allahyar Khan, and that 800 Turkomans have joined him. The Prince Governor, on hearing this, began to make preparations for suppressing Dowlet ]\Iurad Khan in person, and he will shortly proceed thither with troops and the Musteshar-ul-Mulk. The local affairs of Meshed will be in great confusion during the Prince's absence. In fact, all order has disappeared in Seistan and Khorassan, and if the Merv Turkomans are again disappointed in their overtures to Persia,* and hear of the jretreat of the Russian troops, they will make raids on this country in all directions. The journey of Mirza Khanlar Khan to Afghanistan has been put off, for the present, by a telegraphic order from the Minister for Foreign Affairs. * As to receiving the 1,000 tomans before mentioned. Inclosure 6 ia No. 3. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. . (Translation.) September 30, 1878. THE rice and other crops are very good this year. The Prince Governor is expecting the arrival of money for the troops from lehran. Most of the soldiers have deserted from Ak Kaleh, and no one is left there except the officers and a few of the men. tt- i u i -w The Daz tribe have also rebelled. Some days ago they attacked Ak Kaleh, kilhng two soldiers, wounding one, and carrying off five of them prisoners. Nazar Taaneh, Chief of the Atabai tribe, however, pursued them, and succeeded in liberating soldiers. On the 28th it was reported that the Russian troops had returned from Khoja Kaleh to Chat, that the Teke Turkomans having made a stand, General Llamakin retreated. Disease is rife amongst the troops, and there is great mortality. The Turkomans disinter the bodies and strip them- of whatever clothes they possess. The Turkomans of Kiiiil Arvad have opened negotiations with the Kussians. It is further stated that the troops will arrive in a day or two at Bayat Hajji, as thejr Ijave no provisions, and none have been received at Krasnovodsk. Inclosure 7 in No. 3. Private Letter from Asterabad. (Translation.) September 16, 1878. YESTERDAY a man came in from the Russian camp. He reported that the troops remained three days at Karee Kaleh, and their provisions running short, they sent to the Goklan tribe to procure some. That tribe, however, made excuses, sayins that they had no means of transport. They then applied to the inhabitants of Karee Kaleh, who are a mixture of Teke and Yemoot Turkomans ; they also proffered some excuse. Afterwards they dispatched 1,000 camels to Chekishler to bring provisions. Noor Verdee Khan, Chief of the Teke Turkomans, and the Chiefs of Merv and Akhal, have bound themselves to fight. It is also said that thirty persons in the Afghan costume have appeared amongst the Teke tribes ; some say they are Afghans, whilst others say they are Englishmen ; that two Elders of the Teke tribe recently came with 200 horsemen to the Russian General, but he refused to admit the latter into the camp. The Elders then asked the General why he did not allow the horsemen to enter the camp, upon which General Llamakin got angry, and ordered the Elders to be arrested, whilst the horsemen returned ; the General, however, afterwards released the Eldex's, and made them a present of money. It appears that the Russians afterwards went to Khoja Kaleh, which is a strong place between Karee Kaleh and Kizil /Yrvad, and encamped there. The Tek^ tribes are mustering in -great force. The troops are suffering greatly from the brackish water and unhealthy climate. It is rumoured that General Llamakin has sent word to the Tek^ tribes that if they allow the Russian flag to be hoisted amongst them, and a garrison to protect it, he would return ; but they had replied that as long as they lived they would not allow such a thing, and that they would fight, as the Merv Turkomans and the Afghans were with them also. Inclosure 8 in No. 3. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) ^ October 6, ]878. AUTHENTIC news has been received that the Russian troops were obliged to make a retreat fiora Khoja Kaleh. The Teke Turkomans beseiged their camp for two days, and at last General Llamakin retreated fighting. The Tekes then went and intercepted the caravan coming with provisions from Krasnovodsk ; they carried off the whole of it, con- sisting of 300 camels laden with grain. Small garrisons have been left at Chat and Bayat Hajji. The General has returned to Chekishler with the intention of making a second expedition against the Turkomans. The Daz Daviijee tribes have revolted, and the Prince Governor is only waiting for the arrival of money from Tehran to form another camp at Ak Kaleh. The Oghoorchelee Turkomans, who were under the Government of Mazanderan, have been transferred to that of Asterabad. Their revenue is 1,200 tomans a-year, and the Prince Governor issued orders that any of them found trading in future without his licence would be arrested and fined. No. 4. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received December 12.) > My Lord, Tehran, October 39, 1878. I HAVE been informed that General Llamakin has returned to Chat, where a fort is being built, and has established a camp at Chekishler, havAg procured supplies of food, winter clothing, Turkoman huts, and building implements there, dnd from Kras- novodsk. The T6k6 Turkomans have attacked the Sheikhees, a tribe that are under the Russia^ rule, and live in the neighbourhood of Krasnovodsk. They are also building a fort with a ditch, and suitable for guns, ^jnder the direction of some Afghans, who are reported as belonging to the Jamsheedi tribe. The passes are being fortified, and they are reported as having 25,00Q men in readiness. The Yemoots are pressing urgently for payment of the value of their camels and cattle, which they had furnished. to the Russians, and which had been lost during the expedition. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOl^SON. No. 5. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received December 12,) My Lord, Tehran, November 6, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose translations of two letters which I have received from the Asterabad Agent, containing information respecting the loss sustained by the receqt expedition under General Llamakin to Akhal, and the proceedings of the Russians in the vicinity of the Attrek. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON, Inclosure 1 in No. 5. Private Letter from Asterabad, dated October 16, 1878. (Translation.) AFTER General Llamakin returned from Khoja Kaleh he came to Chat, and thence went to Bayat Hajji. The Tck6 horse followed him everywhere, and he retreated fighting until he got to Gumesh Teppeh. He left some men at Chat. The Tekes carried off a caravan of provisions, with the chief of the caravan, as well as two Cossacks. As for the report that seventy of the Turkomans were killed, it is false. Intelligence was received yesterday that a new official had arrived from Russia, with a sum of 12,000 tomans, who is buying up the Pampas grass at the rate of 5 or 6 krans per camel load, and storing it up. They are building a fort at Charkan, and have hoisted the Russian flag there, engaging the Turkomans of that place as servants. They have purchased 100 Turkoman tents, and are purchasing others. They are also building a fort at Chat. The Merv and Tekd Turkomans, accompanied by the Jemsheedee Afghans, have come to Khojeh Kaleh, whence the Russians fled, and are fortifying the place and digging a moat round the fort, under the directions of some Afghans. About 25,000 Tek6 horse are now assembled here, and they are strengthening all the passes. All the Charva Yemoots have removed from those districts through fear of the Teke Turkomans. Some have come to the Goorgan Valley, and some have gone to the Attrek. The Tekes are daily increasing in force and numbers. A report was also received that 2,000 of them have gone in the direction of Boojnoord to make a raid. Aflfairs are in a bad state at present. It is also said here that the Afghans, having taken Seistan, intend marching upon Khorassan, and that the T6k6 Turkomans have joined them. Inclosure 2 in No. 5, The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) October 21, 1878. THE Prince Governor recently received 6,000 tomans for the troops— 4,000 tomans, in cash and 2,000 tomans in bills. He took the cash with him on the 15th to Ak Kaleh. He has full authority to send and bring in all th6 deserters, and to levy recruits to take the place of those missing, to punish all the culprits, and to repair the Fort of Ak Kaleh. [246J ^ 8 The Russian troops are dispersed at Chat, Bayat Hajji, and Chekishler. About 400 soldiers have been lost in the present expedition ; some have died, and the rest have been cut ofFby the Teke Turkomans. The latter are felling trees for fortifying Khoja Kaleh, and they are going to throw up such fortifications as will enable them to work guns on them. Most of the Eussian soldiers (who died) were killed by the Tek6s when they were sent to escort a convoy of prisoners. The Daz 'and Davajee tribes have not yet paid their annual taxes to the Prince Governor, nor has he sent anyone to recover them. ¥0.6. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received December 12.) My Lord, Tehran, November 6, 1878. I HAVE the honour to transmit herewith translations of three letters which I have received from the Meshed Agent, containing information which had reached him from Afghanistan, Seistan, the Khorassan districts, and Turkoman territory. He mentions the arrival in Khorassan from Cabul of the son of the late Shah Newaz Khan, Sirdar Iskender Khan. Shah Newaz Khan's brother, who was in the Russian service for some time after the family was driven out of Herat, and who has for several years resided in London, has lately also arrived in Persia. It is believed that he will apply for and probably obtain the pension hitherto granted by the Persian Government to his late brother, I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON, Inclosure 1 in No. 6. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) October 22, 1878. FOUR days ago the son of Shah Newaz Khan arrived here from Cabul with fourteen followers, en route for Tehran, by permission of Ameer Shere Ali Khan. His object is to look after his late father's estate. He informed me that the chief Russian officer who went on a mission to Cabul was still there, but that his assistant had returned. He also added that when he was in Kohistan an unknown person appeared, of whom the frontier authorities inquired who he was and whence he came. He replied that he was the bearer of petitions for the Shah and his Ministers from Sirdar Taj Mahomed Khan to the effect that he was a loyal servant and was ready to serve on condition that the Ameer of Kain should have no jurisdiction over him, or else he would take refuge with the English. He also added that the Sirdar had taken possession of Hoossein Abad and seized all the Government property and guns, and arrested the relations of the Ameer of Kain. The ' frontier authorities had him conveyed to Herat, and await the pleasure of the Governor as to whether he should be allowed to proceed to Persia or no. I hear from Boojnoord that the Russians had retreated and were building a fort at Chat, that there are not more than 7,000 soldiers and 1,000 horse, and that the Russian General has gone to Krasnovodsk, but will return in a fortnight. Seven days ago I received a letter from a friend at Serrekhs ; he writes that news had been received from Chehar Jong that a party of Russian troops had been seen sailing up the Jaxartes, but that it was unknown whether they were going to Afghanistan or elsewhere. Yesterday T went to visit the Guardian of the Holy Shrine ; while there a letter was received from the Prince Governor, saying that at the onset he had dispatched horsemen with AUahyar Khan, Behbood Khan, the Governor of Khelat, and Kahramon (Khan) of Koochan, to the Fort of Chapeshlar, where the brother of Dowlat Moorad Khan was Governor, but that he fled on their approach. Dowlat Moorad Khan himself, on learning this, fled with forty or fifty Akhal Turkomans to the Fort of Noukhandan,' and that he (the Prince Governor) had entered Chapeshlar, so that the affair of Dere'hgez may be considered as settled. The date of the Prince Governor's letter was the 20th October. 9 Inclosure 2 in No. 6. TJie Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) October 19, 1878. A CORRESPONDENT at Herat writes on the 4th that there was an insurrection at Panj Sheer, and that Shere Ali Khan had dispatched Sirdar Abdullah Khan, formerly Governor of Herat, with three regiments, two squadrons of horse, and several guns against that place. There was great tyranny going on at Cabul, and the inhabitants were very weary of it. Three other regiments, accompanied by three ressalas of horse and six guns, have recently arrived at Candahar in order to guard the frontier near Peshany and Chalcote. Mohammed Said, son of Syed Shahdad of Peshany, is the Governor of Ghuznee. The aforesaid troops and guns will proceed to Mookr and be stationed there. Sirdar Meer Afzul Khan is the Governor, and Safdar Ali Khan the Commander-in-chief at Candahar, and Sultan Mohammed Khan the Deputy Governor ; they intend strengthening the frontier of Feshany. He also writes that intelligence had been received that a district in the neighbourhood of Meimaneh had also revolted, during which several of the Ameer's troops had been put to death, and that a force had been sent to suppress it. The Turkomans have also entered into Meimaneh. Affairs at Herat are also in a state of confusion. In the last three days' the Governor and the Commander-in-chief have been deliberating, and they have decided to send 2 regiments, 500 horsemen, and 6 mountain guns to Kohistan to guard the frontier, as it was reported that 1,500 Turkomans of the Yoola Tau tribe, horse and foot, intended making a raid into the Herat territory. The son of Shah Newaz Khan has arrived at Herat from Cabul, en route for Tehran. No. 7. The Marquis of Salisbury to Lord A. Loftus. My Lord, Foreign Office, December 13, 187^. COUNT SCHOUVALOP]? mentioned to me, in the course of conversation, on the 10th. instant, that though the E/Ussian Envoy who had been sent to Afghanistan had been recalled to Russia, the Russian Mission still remained at Cabul. I expressed great surprise at this statement, which was entirely new to me, and which, I was convinced, would be as new to my colleagues as to myself. I pointed out to him. the untenable position taken up by tlie Russian Government, who admitted that the dispatch of a Mission had been an infraction of the understanding existing between the two countries only justified by the probabihty of war, but who now continued to maintain the Mission long after friendly relations had been fully re-established ; and I earnestly urged upon him the expediency of withdrawing the Mission, the continued presence of which was entirely at variance with the engagements which were still in force between England and Russia. His Excellency admitted that the course followed by the Russian Government was abnormal. He asked me whether I admitted that we had engaged to respect the indepen- dence of Afghanistan, basing his contention that such an engagement had been made by us upon the Memorandum contained in Lord Derby's despatch to Mr. Doria of the 26th October, 1875. I said that all the engagements which we had taken, or which the Russian Govern- ment had taken, in that correspondence, I regarded as still binding ; but I could not admit that the words used by Lord Derby went so far as to make the maintenance of the independence of Afghanistan a matter of engagement on our part tow^ards Russia. The discussion was renewed yesterday. His Excellency intimated to me clearly that it w^as the intention of the Russian Government forthwith to withdraw their Mission. At the same time, he again asked mo T.-hether he might consider the understanding formerly arrived at with respect to Central Asia to be still in vigour; and whether we admitted that the recognition of Afghanistan as an independent State under British influence formed part of that understanding. He relied especially upon the language of the Memorandum of 1875. I could only repeat England would adhere to all the undertakings she had given. The Memorandum did not, however, in ouv judgment, bear the construction which he C 2 [246] JO placed upon it, and, therefore, I could not admit that we were under any engagement with respect to the independence of Afghanistan ; but he might see from the speeches of Ministers in public that the maintenance of Afghanistan as an independent State under British influence was the policy ^vhich at present we desired to pursue. Ultimately his Excellency observed that it might be desirable to reduce the substance of our conversation to the form of a note ; a course to which I replied that I saw no objection. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 8. Count Schouvaloff to the Marquis of Salisbury. -^-{Receivied December 19.) Mon cher Lord Salisbury, Londres, le yq De'cembre, 1878. VOUS avez exprim6 de la surprise en apprenant que la Mission Russe que vous avez cru avoir quitte Caboul s'y trouvait encore. Vous m'avez rappele la declarat on. faite par M. le Senateur de Giers an Charge d'Aflfaires Britannique, concernant le caract^re provisoire de cette Mission, envoyee dans des circonstauces esceptionnellcs et lorsqu'il etait a craindre en effet qu'une guerre n'eclatat enlre I'Angleterrc et la E/Ussie. J'ai regu un telegramme du Prince Gortchacow dans lequel il me charge de vous demander si les arrangements entre la Russie et I'Angleterre, tels qu'ils existaient avant I'envoi de la Mission et tels qu'ils sont consign6s dans la correspondance echangee a ce sujet entre les deux Cabinets, sont maintenus par le Gouvernement de la Reine, et s'ils conservent h, ses yeux leur caract^re obligatoire. Sa Majesty I'Empereur est dispose, pour sa part, a observer tons les arrangements relatifs a 1' Asie Centrale conclus entre la Russie et I'Angleterre, et a rappeler immediate- ment la Mission Russe qui se trouve a Caboul. Veuillez, &c. (Sign6) SCHOUVALOEF. (Translation.) My dear Lord Salisbury, _ London, December -/g, 1878. YOU have expressed surprise on learning that the Russian Mission, which you thought had left Cabul, was still there. You reminded me of the declaration made by M. de Giers to the British Charge d'AflPaires concerning the provisional character of this Mission, which was dispatched under exceptional circumstances, and at a time Avhen it was to be feared that war might break out between England and Russia. I have received a telegram from Prince Gortchacow, in which he charges me to ask you whether the arrangements between Prussia and England, such as they existed before the dispatch of the Mission, and such as they are recorded in the correspon- dence exchanged on this subject between the two Cabinets, are maintained by Her Majesty's Government, and whether they retain in their eyes their obligatory character. His Majesty the Emperor is disposed, on his part, to observe all the arrangements relative to Central Asia concluded between Russia and England, and to recall imme- diately the Mission which is at Cabul. (Signed) SCHOUVALOEE. Xo. 9. The Marquis of SaUshurij to Count Schouvaloff, My dear Count Schouvaloff, Foreign Office, December 19, 18'78 I^ reply to your letter of this clay's ihtc, I have to state to your Excellency that the contmued presence of the Russi:!]i Mission at Cabul is the sole obstacle TO a lull revival of the und(?rstandin^' between the two Powers expressed in the correspondence which has passed between ihcm upon the subject of Afghanistan and Central Asia; and when the Russian Mission is withdrawn, Her Majesty's 11 Government will consider tliat all engagements on both sides witli respect to those countries retain their obligatory character. I have, &c. (Signed) SALISBTJEY. No. 10. The Marquis of 8aJishury to Lord A, Loftus. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, December 19, 1878. I WAS informed to-day by the Russian Ambassador that instructions had been sent to the Mission to withdraw from Cabul. No. 11. Lord A, Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury, — (Received December 25.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, December 20, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship, h\ translation by Mr. Michell, an article from the " Golos " of this day, which contains a letter, dated the 13th October, from its correspondent at Cabul. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 11. Extract from the '-Golos" of December 20, 1878. (Translation from the Russian.) THR "Golos" (No. 339) of the -i-gth December, 1878, contains the following letter, dated the ,Ji{; October last, from its correspondent at Cabul : — "As a caravan is to start to-morrow or the day after, J shall communicate some extracts out of my diary to you. "General Stoletoff's Mission entered Cabul on the iSiugust ut^der the circumstances 'already described, and was lodged in the Bala tlissar Palace The official visit of the Russians to the Ameer was made on the following day, the uthi"'|usf All the members of the Mission were in gala uniform, and although the Ameer's Palace was only about 50 fathoms distant, they proceeded on horseback to it, escorted by twelve Cossacks and a detachment of Afghan guards. The Ameer received the Mission on .an open terrace which faces a garden, and which served as a hall of audience. The reception took place in the presence of a few high functionaries. On the presentation of each member ot the Mission the Ameer paid him some compliment, or made a jocose remark. Thus, on the presentation of Malevinski, who was attached to the Mission, as English interpreter, the Ameer, with a simulation of anxiety, said he hoped that Malevinski, as an Englishman and interpreter, was not the bearer of fire and sword through Afghanistan The Ameer shook hands with each member as he was presented. by General StoletofF, retaining his seat on a gilt chair. The Ameer was very amiable with all The audience lasted about an hour, the conversation being very animated and on many topics In the evening the town was brilliantly illuminated, and there was a display of fireworks and Bengal lights. On the iM*/iulu,t5 at noon, the highest Afghan dignitaries — the Vizier, Dabir-uI-Mulk, and some others, came to inquire after the health of the members of the Mission. Having exchanged compliments, the Vizier and General Stoletoff were left alone for the purpose of negotiation. This order of things was generally observed during the succeeding days ; the Vizier and Dabir-ul-Mulk used to appear about mid*day, and work at the Treaty with Stoletoff. StoletofF went several times to the Ameer, especially when a difficulty arose between the negotiators. The Treaty had general reference to the Afghan system of administration, to the question of succession, the recognition by Russia of the existing political regime in. Afghanistan, &c. As regards the conclusion , .of an offensive' and defeusive alliance between Russia and Afghanistan, this is a pure invention on the part 0. 12 the English journalists, who made an elephant out of a fly. I can positively assert that there is nothing of the kind in the Treaty ; nevertheless, Russia in this Treaty binds herself morally to support the integrity and independence of Afghanistan " The correspondent then describes the illness and treatment of Abdulla Khan, and his subsequent death. " Tlie labours of General Stoletoff and the Afghan Representatives proceeded from day to day, but several drafts of the Treaty had to be made before a final understanding was arrived at. "On the conclusion of the negotiations Shere All Khan informed General Stoletoff he had received information that the English were also desirous of sending a Mission to Cabul, and that they wanted to know whether the Ameer would receive it. At the same time the Ameer observed that, in his opinion, the English had nothing to do in Cabul, and that he therefore intended to refuse the English request. The Ameer, however, asked General Stoletoff's advice as to the course he should pursue in the case. General Stoletoff gave an evasive reply, which was neither of an affirmative nor yet of a negative nature. He, nevertheless, gave the Ameer to understand that the simultaneous presence of the Missions of two States, which were at almost hostile relations with each other, would not be very convenient. Thereupon the Ameer decided to answer by a refusal. * « « « » " On the -Ifth August General Stoletoff, accompanied by the Doctor and escorted by ten Cossacks, left for Tashkend, which place we hear he reached on the ^^^th September, after a fatiguing journey of twenty- two days, and extending over 1,300 versts. The fol- lowing members of the Mission still remain at Cabul : — Colonel Ro?gonoff, Benderski (topographer), Malevinski (interpreter), Sub-Lieutenants NazarofF and Zaaman Belc, with eleven Cossacks and attendants." No. 12. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury.-— (Received January 6.) My Lofd, ^ St. Petersburgh, January 1, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose, in translation by Mr. Michell, an account given by the " Moscow Gazette " of the movements of the Russian detachment which marched last summer from Petro-Alexandroffsk, along the Oxus, having in view Kizil-Rabat for its ultimate destination. T have &c. (Signed) ' AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosurc in No. 12. Extract from the "Moscow Gazette" of December ^, 1878. (Translation from the Russian.) THE " Moscow Gazette" of the S^tt December, 1878, contains the following account, written by a correspondent, of the movement of the Russian detachment that marched last summer from Fort Petro-Alexandroffsk to the Oxus, having in view Kizil-Rabat for its utimate destination : — "On the i|th July our detachment, consisting of six companies of infantry, two sotnias of Cossacks, and four guns, left the encampment at Fort Petro-Alexandroffsk. We were ordered to proceed up the course of the Oxus, keeping to the right bank. On reaching Fort Chardjui, situated on the left bank of the Oxus (south-west of Bokhara) ibe detachment was to halt and there await further orders. The advance of the detach- ment did not differ from previous expeditions undertaken by detachments from Turkestan ; over the lieated sandy plain, encountering violent gusts of wind, which raised large clouds (,f sand, and, and with the temperature at 42° Reaumur, the soldiers marched as on a parade-ground. The drifting sand proved the greatest obstacle to the advance of the troops : the feet of the soldiers and horses sinking deep into the friable sand at every step ; the wheels of the gun-carriages sank almost to the axletrees, so that the horses were continually straining at their loads, owing to the increased force of resistance, "And 80 we ascended the Oxus along the right bank, gradually approaching 13 Bokhara. The men were in remarkably buoyant spirits. No doubts as to the practicability of marching to India were entertained ; but the famous Berlin Congress pro- nounced its mandate. We retraced our steps. The extreme point of our advance was KiziU Rabat." No. 13. Mr, R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— (Received January 16.) (Telegraphic.) Tehran, January 16, 1879. IT would seem that the Russian detachment at Chat, consistins; of 600 men, is in a critical position. The place is said to be surronnded by the Akhal Turkomans. They have also attacked Chekishler and carried off all the camels collected there from under the guns of the Ashourada squadron sent to protect the place. No. 14. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received January 20.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, January 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship a leading article, of a semi-official character, from the " Journal de St. Petersbourg " on the reported intention of Shere Ali to invite the mediation of Europe in his conflict with England, an intention which the article designates as a ''generous illusion." I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 14. Extract from the " Journal de St. Petersbourg " of F^Trf II Im- IL se confirme que I'Amir de Caboul a quitte ses Etats et a r^clam^ I'hospitalite de la Russie. II ressort des nouvelles m^mes pubii^es par les journaux Anglais sur les evene- ments militaires, que ce ne sont pas les succfes remportes par les troupes Anglo-Indiennes qui ont force Shir Ali a chercher asile a I'etranger. Le but du voyage entrepris par ce Souverain est, nous assure-t-on, d'mvoquer la mediation de I'Europe, et de rendre les Puissances Continen tales juges de son conflit avec I'Angleterre. Genereuse illusion, s'il en fut ! Amir Shir Ali ne s'est pas rendu compte de cette circonstance qu'une mediation n'est exercee que si elle est r6clamee ou du moins admise par les deux parties interessees, ce qui, dans I'esp^ce, est fort peu probable. Le Souverain de I'Afghanistan se trouve k cette heure sur le sol Russe, et il va de soi qu'il y rencontrera la sympathique hospitalite qui lui est due. Nous ignorons encore si, a la suite des explica- tions et des dclaircissements qui ne sauraient tarder a lui ^tre fournis sur les chances de son excursion, il jugera devoir la continuer. 1^ c 2 •^ to > w o S6 !»■ a! a o M O d o a: ■X-: » o 9 o- o ^ s^ tc ^ OJ s <; ^ s ^ Co ^ ' -i ss ►— ' g 00 3 -vl Cb CO » " c* ^ D o o » w w •a o o H •Z O B a O a CENTRAL ASIA. No. 1 (1880). EUETHEE OOEEESPONDENOE RESPECTING AFFAIES IN CENTRAL ASIA: 1879. (In continuation of " Central Asia No, 1 : 1879.") Presented to both Houses of Parliament by Command of Her Majesty. 1880. LONDON : FEINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS. Gys-h TABLE OF CONTENTS No. I 10 11 12 13 14 20 21 22 Name. Lord A. Loftus Mr. R. Thomson . . » n •• » » j> >» India Office » 5» • • » » •• Lord A. Loftus . , » »> 15 India Office 16 Lord A. Loftus 17 » » 18 « » « 19 » j> Date, ]5fec. 31, 1878 31, 31, Jan, 1, 1879 Nov. 21, 1878 30, Subject. Page 30, Dec. 4, 5, Jan. 10, 1879 10, 10, 11, 15, 25, 28, 29, 29, 29, 29, 29, 29,, [127] Statements in the " Golos " as to the shortly,- expected arrival at St. Petersburgh of the Chinese Mission and the probable treatment of the Chinese frontier and the Kuldja questions Article from' the Russian press on the overflow of the Oxus, and the possibilii;^' of that river return- ing to its former course into Ae Caspian Articles from the Russian prejui on "The Triumph of English Policy in Central Asia." .. Article from the " Golos " contrasting the policy of England and Russia and Central Asia, condemn- ing a policy of aggression on the part of Russia, and advocating all abstention in the war between England and Afghanistan . . . , M. Bakouline's return to Asterabad . . Letters from the Meshed Agent. Accounts of Russian and Turcoman movements. Disturbances in Seistan. Events in Afghanistan . . Letters from the Asterabad Agent as to the move- ments of the Russian troops and the arrival of the Russian Consul at Asterabad. Telegram reporting attacks on Russian detachment at Chat by the T6ke Turkomans . , . . . . Reported intended visit of two Russian officers to Herat as travellers., Preparations being made for their reception ,. . .. Correspondence containinsr intelligence from Af- ghanistan and from' the Turkomans at Akhal Reports relating to the affairs of Afghaaistan and relations of Ameer with Russia .. .. Further Reports on the same subject Position of Russian aaid Chinese forces . . Reported intention of the Ameer Shere Ali to go to Sit. Petersburgh. Instructions sent to General Kaufmann to urge him to remain in Turkestan . . Extracts from the Russian press respecting the flight of the Ameer Shere Ali, news from Chinese Turkestan, and a new Russian ex- ploring expedition to Lahssa and Afghan terri- tory . . . . . ^ • . • • Capture of Kashgar by the Chinese in 1876-77. Account of by a Turkish officer lately in the ser- vice of the Ameer of Kashgar ,. Reception of the Chinese Minister by the Czar. Conversation with former. Objects of the Mis- sion. . . . . . . . . . . Article from Russian press giving an account of the state of affairs in Kashgar and on the Russo- Chinese frontiers . . . . . . Proposed Russian expedition to Thibet under Colonel Prjevalsky. Statement in the " Russki Mir " respecting . . ' Article in the " Novoe Vreraia " urging the neces- sity of the occupation of Merv by Russia as a menace against Western Afghanistan, and as a means of completely subjugating the Turkomans.. Article in the " Novoe Vremia " announcing the return to St. Petersburgh of a Colonel Grodikoff, of the general staff, from a journey from the north-west provinces of Afghanistan to Herat, and through northern Persia . . Report of M. Petrovski on the Asiatic trade of Russia. Article in the " St. Petersburgh Vedo- misti " .. Overflow of the Oxus. Letter from engineer diispatched to explore . . . . . . 3 4 9 9 n 13 16 17 17 '^ 20 X 23 -^ 25 ;c 26 27 28 29 30 IV TABLE OP CONTENTS. No. 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Name. Lord A. Loftus Mr. R. Thomson Lord A. Loftus . . Mr. R. Thomson . . . . (Telegraphic) Lord A. Loftus . . Mr. E. Thomson . . (Telegraphic) Lord A. Loftus .. Earl of Dufferin 44 Mr. R. Tliomson 45 » it 46 n » 47 » » Date. Jan. 29, 1879 Dec. 10, 1878 16, 17, 31, 31, Feb. 5, 1879 14, 10, 11, 11, 11, 26, 15, 24, 24, 25, 26, Mar. 7, 12, 19, Jan. 6, 11, 11, 16, Subject. Article in " Exchange Gazette " reporting intention of the Ameer Shere Ali to go to St. Petersburgh, notwithstanding endeavours made to dissuade him . • . . ... Arrival of a Russian ofScer at Meshed, having come from Tashkend via Balkh and Herat. His re- ception at the latter place . . Russian expedition against the Akhal Turkomans. Condition of the troops . . . . Movements of the Russian officer mentioned in despatch of December 10. Intention of the Ameer to retire to the hill country if unable to withstand the advance of the British army Reports received from Meshed. The Russian mission to Cabul. Events in Afghanistan. Movements of the Turkomans Letter from Asterabad. Movements of the Russian troops and Turkomans Intention to grant a concession for the construction of a railway from Tiflis to Batoum Firman addressed by Shere Ali to Herat authorities, respecting his intended journey to St. Peters- burgh, the promises of Russia, and the wish of the latter that a British Envoy should not be admitted to Afghanistan Illness of Shere Ali, and abandonment of his journey to St. Petersburgh. Movements of General Rasgonoff Article from the Russian press on the question of rendering possible the navigation of the old bed of the Oxus, with a view of connecting^that river with the Caspian . . , . Article from the " Exchange Gazette " announcing defeat of Russian Cossacks by Kirghiz in Altai district . . . . Article in the Semipalatinsk " Provincial Gazette" reporting the capture of Kashgar by the Sarts, and the revolt of Khotan against the Chinese .. Report from Meshed as to state of Herat Article in the " St. Petersburgh Vedomisti " on the causes of the overflow of the Oxus Report of Shere All's illness and return of General Rasgonofl' of the Russian Cabul Mission Article from the " Golos " giving an account of the efl^ect produced by the defeat of the Afghan troops by the British army, and the consequences result- ing from it Movements of the Russian Mission to Cabul. Russian exploration in Central Asia in 1878. Travels of Professor MushketoflF in the Alai mountains Extracts from the St. Petersburgh " Vedomisti " and the " Exchange (Jazette ",. giving accounts of . . Conversation with M. de Giers on the subject of the illness of Shere Ali and the object of the Afghan Mission to Tashkend. Ameer informed that no mediation could be undertaken by Russia in his behalf .. .. .... Reported capture of Kashgar by the Sarts. Further extracts from the Russian press respecting Article in the Russian press respecting exploration of the old course of the Oxus ; and the relative positions of Russia and Great Britain in regard to Central Asia and Afghanistan New route from the Caspian to Kungrad. Letter published in the "Moscow Gazette" reporting discovery of . . . . ' . , Orders given by Shere Ali for dispatch of 2,000* cavairy from Herat to Candahar News from Meshed and Boojnoord. Russian,' Afghan, and Turkoman movements Letter from Asterabad. Russian force at Chat hard pressed by the Turkomans . . Russian detachment at Chat surrounded by Turko- mans led by a Russian deserter named "iskender Bey Page 30 31 TABLE OF CONTENTS. No. 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 71 72 73 74 76 76 77 Name. Mr. R. Thomson . . » » » » j> j» if J) »» jj 60 Consul Churchill 61 ,. >i 62 Earl of Dufferin 63 64 Mr. R. Thomson » » 65 99 9! 66 67 68 '99 J) 5J 9i 69 Earl of Dufferin 70 Mr. R. Thomson Date. Jan. 18, 1879 20, 24, 27, 28, * 28, Feb. 7, 15, 15, 15, 25, 25, Mar. 11, Apr. 3, 20, Mar. 13, 13, 13, 17, 21, 22, Apr. 30, Mar. 29, Apr. 2, 5, 5. 12, 13, 19, 19, Subject. Report from the Meshed Agent. Attack by, and defeat of, Akhal Turkomans under Dow let Morad Khan in the Province of Derehjez Extensive military preparations at Herat . . Defeat of Dowlet Morad Khan, leader of the revolt in the Province of Derehgez. Article in the " Tehran Gazette " announcing Letter from Meshed giving detailed statement of the force and number of guns at Herat Letters from the Asterabad Agent. Accounts of the movements of the Russian expedition and of the Turkomans . . . . . . Xetters from the Meshed Agent. Russian, Afghan, and Turkoman movements . . Death of Shere Ali not known at Tehran. Eyub Khan desirous of returning to Afghanistan. Telegram to Viceroy of India Reports from the Meshed Agent and letter from Herat. Proceedings of Shere AU and Eyub Khan. Movements of the Russian expedition Letters from Asterabad. Accounts of Russian military movements : rumour as to the construction of a railway from Chekishler to Chat . . Translation of Firman issued to authorities at Herat by Shere Ali, as to his journey to St. Peters- burgh and assurances received from Russian Envoy . . Letters from Herat and the Meshed Agent. Pro- ceedings of Shere Ali and Yakoub Khan. Rus- sian and Turkoman movements Letter from Asterabad. Reported attempts of the Russians to make friends with the Teke Turko- n\ans . . Russian expedition under Generals Lazareff and Llamakin towards Merv. Details respecting . . Movements of General Lazareff. Expedition pro- bably postponed . . . . . . Extracts from the Russian press on the subject of Russia's duties and obligations with respect to the Turkoman steppe ; and disturbance among the Cossacks at Rostov Russian expedition. Consul Churchill's account of . Report from Asterabad Agent. Proceedings of the Russians at Chat and Chekishler Letters from Meshed Agent. Movements of Shere Ali and the Afghan troops . . Intended fresh invasion of Akhal by the Russians . . The Afghan war. Reports on the subject of Letters from Asterabad. Reported landing of fresh bodies of Russian troops on the Turkoman coast. . Details respecting intended Russian expedition against the Turkomans Reports from Asterabad, Meshed, and Herat. News ' from Afghanistan. Russian forces at Chekishler. Persian expedition against the Poukuz Turko- mans Reports from Herat and Meshed. Death of Shere Ali. Yakoub Khan declared Ameer of Afghan- istan, and Eyoub Khan made Governor of Herat. Officers of Russian Mission sent away . , Letter from Asterabad Agent, Russian detach- ments at Chat brought back to Chekishler suffering from a disease, supposed to be scurvy No more fresh Russian troops landed on Turkoman coast. Scurvy among the detachment at Chat . , Revolt against Eyoub Khan at camp at Herat. Letter respecting . . Report from Asterabad Agent. Proceedings of the Russians at Chekishler. Account of the scurvy 3X Lyoat .. .. •• ■* .. Letter from Asterabad Agent. General Lazareff to arrive in Turkoman plains with fresh troops. Scurvy continues at Chat Report of Agent at Meshed. Supposed promises of the Russian Government to Shere Ali. Yakoub Khan's battles with the English. State of affairs at Herat. . VI TABLE OF CONTENTS. No. 78 79 80 »> >> 81 Mr. R. Thomson 82 83 » » » » 84 31 9f 85 )» » 86 )) »» 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 Name. Mr. Plunke If » Consul Churchill .. Mr. Plunkett »» » • • Consul Churchill . . Mr. Plunkett )» »> •• To Earl of Dufferin Earl of Dufferin . . Mr. R. Thomson , . »j » • • » •? • • » J) • • Earl of Dufferin . . Date. May 17, 1879 June 4, 4, Apr. 24, 28, 29, 30, May 5, 9, 19, 19, 28, June 18, 18, 18, 5, 24, 25, July 9, 6, June 8, 13, 14, 16, 16, July 16, 16, SlJBJECT. Account in a " Kavkaz '' paper of an engagement between the Russians and Teke Turkomans near Krasnovodsk Survey of projected railway between Orenburg and Samarcand to be continued- Further Russian ex- ploring expeditions to be made Precis of account given by Mr. Bykoff of his survey of the Upper Oxus No movement of Persian troops to Khaff or in the direction of Herat . . .. Rumour as to certain Russians going to Candahar , , General Lazareff and the Persian Yemoot Chiefs at Chekishler. His speeches to them and the Tur- komans with reference to an expedition through their territory to Afghanistan Report from the Asterabad Agent to the above effect . . . • . • - • • ■ Report from the Meshed Agent. News from Herat. Rumoured negotiations for peace Strength of the Russian force at Chat and Che- kishler. Movements of Generals Lazareff and Llamakin Report from the Meshed Agent. News from Af- ghanistan. Return of the Afghan Mission from Russia. Doubtful rumour that the Akhal Chief, Noor Verdee Khan, had undertaken to serve the Russians Noor Geldee Khan in command of Russian Cossacks ordered to release all Persian captives detained by the Persian Yemoots Concentration of Russian troops on east shore of the Caspian. Despatch to Mr. Thomson respect- ing Arrival of General Kaufmann at St. Petersburgh. Objects of his visit . . ... Latest reports of proceedings of the Chinese in Turkestan, published in the " Turkestan Ga- zette " .. ... .. * .. Articles in the Russian press on Treaty of Peace between England and Yakoub Khan, and propects of Russia in Central Asia . . Constant reinforcements proceeeding to the Russian camp at Chekishler via Enzelee Proposed submarine cable in Caspian from Cape Gourgian to Krasnovodsk. Report on progress of published in the " Journal de St. Petersbourg " Telegram from Tiflis published in the " Golos " an- nounces the departure of the vanguard of the Russian expeditionary force from Chekishler for Duzolum Conversation with Count Schouvaloff. Assurance given by his Excellency that the Russian Govern- ment have no intention to march against Merv. Objects of present expedition Letter in the " Moscow Gazette " respecting the diversion of the River Attrek into its old bed . . Beneficial results in Persia of British policy as regards Afghanistan Letters from Meshed Agent, Merv, and Herat. Movements of the Russians and Turkomans. News from Afghanistan Letters from Asterabad. Proceedings of the Russian expedition under General Lazareff. Ru- mour that the Karee Kaleh tribes had sought the protection of the Russians at Chat Report from the Asterabad Agent. As to the Russian fort at Chat. General intelligence as to movements of the Russian troops Report from the Meshed Agent. News from Herat and Cabul. As to Russian advance against the Akhal country Russia and England in Central Asia. Conversation with Barons de Giers and Jomini. Their de- clarations as to object of expedition under General Lazareff.. Russian expedition iagainst the T6k# Turkomans. Extracts from the Russian press on subject of . . TABLE OF CONTENTS. VJl No. 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 1.19 120 121 122 123 124 125 Name. Earl of Dufferin .. » 9 •• Mr. R. Thomson » » »» » 3J >* •• >' '» Earl of Dufferin . , Date. July 29, 1879 30, June 27, 27, July 6, 7, 12, 12, Mr. Plunkett 19 t) » !> (Telesgraphic) Mr. E. Thomson . . » » Consul Churchill Mr. Plunkett 16, Aug. 13, 26, 26, Sept. 3, Aug. 30, Sept. 1, Aug. 3, 3. 8. 3. Sept. 9, Subject. Statement in the " Turkestan Gazette " that two Russian explorers. Captain Hermann and the botanist Smirnoff, will explore the mountains of Karategin and Dervatz in the summer Approval by the Emperor of Russia of assurances given by Baron de Giers as to the non-advance of Russian troops on Merv. Contemplated opera- tions will not extend- so far eastwards as Baron Jomini had intimated Convention between Persia and Russia for the con- struction and maintenance of a line of telegraph between Chekishler and Asterabad. Incloses translation of Reports from Herat and the Agents at Meshed and Asterabad. State of affairs in Seistan and at Herat. Proceedings of General Lazareff and the Russian forces . . Report from the Asterabad Agent. Proceedings of the Russian expedition. Arrival of reinforce- ments . . Reported arrival of Russian troops at Karaj Kaftan, on the Oxus, on their way to Petro-Alex- androvsk, and movement of others thence to Bokhara. Satisfaction at Herat with terms of the peace with England .. Reports from Herat and Agent at Meshed.^ Rus- sians at Karaj Kaftan. Mules for camp at Chekishler. Events in Afghanistan Letter from Yakoub Khan to Shah of Persia, an- nouncing death of Shere Ali, and thanking him for hospitality shown to Eyoub Khan . . Reports from Asterabad Agent. Events on the Atirek and at Chat. Attempt of the Russians to seize Moossa Khan, Chief of the Ak-Atabai Turkomans Report from Agent at Meshed. Events at Herat. Russian proceedings at Boojnoord Conversation with the Emperor of Russia. Assu- rances given by His Majesty that there is no intention of the Russian troops advancing on Merv . . . . . . . . Extracts from the Russian press on the subject of General Lazareff's detachment at Chekishler Advance of the Russian troops on Merv. Baron de Giers' remarks on Mr. Stanhope's statement in the House of Commons as to assurances received from Russian Government .. Russian expedition beyond the Caspian. General Tergoukassoff succeeds to command of Articles in the Russian press on the subject of engagements taken by England and Russia respec- tively with regard to Central Asia Letter in the " Journal de St. Petersbourg " on the subject of a dispute between the Russian authori- ties and a Persian engineer sent by his Govern- ment to build a fort near Attrek . . , . Reports from Herat and the Meshed Agent. Events at Herat since the peace. Russian pro- ceedings at Boojnoord. Russian movements in Akhal . . Reports from Agent at Asterabad. Movements of the Russian expedition. Their efforts to obtain mules and camels^ Persian Government intend to have a resident Agent at Chekishler and to build a fort at Hussein Kuli . . Baba Khan authorized to come to Serrekhs with as many families as will accompany him from Merv. Negotiations with Merv to be reopened by Persian Government for the allegiance of the tribe to Jrersia .• •■ .■ .. .. The Russian camp at Chekishler. Accounts re- specting . . . . , . •• . ( Relative position of England and Russia in Central Asia. Pr6cis of article from the " Herold " of St. Petersburgh .. .. .. Page 103 VlU TABLE OF CONTENTS. 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 No. Name. 126 Mr. Plunkett 127 ») j» • 128 Mr. R. Thomson . 129 Mr. Plunkett ») » »» 99 Date Sept. 10, 10, 1879 Aug. 18, Sept. 18, )l )» Mr. R. Thomson 30, 30, Oct. 4, 4, Aug. 29, 29, Mr. Plunkett 9* J» To Mr. R. Thomson Mr. Plunkett 20, 24, 24, 24, 24. 26, 29, 29, 29, Sept. 1, ], Oct. 11, 11, 16, 17, 17, Oct. 22, 22. Subject. Services of General Tergoukassoif, appointed to suc- ceed General LazarefF in command of the Rus- sian expedition beyond the Caspian Attack on the British Mission at Cabul. Articles from the P.ussian press on the subject of General LazareflF with the main body of the Russian force has left Chekishler for the invasion of Akhal Effect of the attack on the Britisli Mission at Cabul on the Central Asiatic question. Further extracts from the Russian press respecting . , Memorandum by Lord Frederic Hamilton on the proposed ship-canal from the Black Sea to the Caspian Further articles from the Russian press on the Afghan question . . . . - . . Advance of the Russian force on Akhal. Extracts from the Russian press giving accounts of. Re- ported gathering of T6k6s at Geuk-Tepe Extract from " Agence Russe " respecting Russian proceedings in Afghanistan . . . . ' Extract from the " Turkestan Gazette " as to Rus- sian movements in those regions Articles in the Russian press. Defeat of the Russian army at Geuk-Tepe denied. Reasons given why the Akhal expedition should proceed no further at present Extract from the " Journal de St. P6tersbourg " giving an account of the progress made by the Imperial Commission appointed to study the feasibility of a Central Asiatic railway and the navigability of the Oxus Report of engagement of Russian forces with Turko- mans at Geuk-T6pe Letter from the correspondent of the "Invalide Russe " with the Russian expedition against the Akhal Tekgs Articles from the Russian press on Central Asia . . Extracts from the " Journal de St Petersbourg " on the subject of the battle of Geuk-Tep6 and the principal objects of the Russian expedition Telegram from Consul Churchill announcing death of General Lazareff Despatches from Consul at Asterabad giving account of the movements of the Russian army on the Attrek. A Colonel of the Persian army accredited to Russian Commander-in-chief. Mr. Churchill's son gone to camp at Chekishler Reports from the Meshed Agent. Events at Herat, Merv, and Boojnoord. Rumoured capture of Karee-Kaleh by the Russians Report from the Asterabad Agent. Departure of the Russian army for the Tek6 plains . . Disease among troops at Chat. Description of camp and army at Chekishler by Mr. Sidney Churchill .. .. .. ;_ Report by Mr. Sidney Churchill of his visit to Chekishler . . . . _ _ . _ At request of Caucasus authorities telegraphic com- munication has been established across the Per- sian territory to Chekishler . . Remarks in the "Golos" on the best means for combating British influence in Afghanistan Return of General Kaufmann to Turkestan. State- ment in the " Invalide Russe " as to Russian troops stationed near Vernoe Account by M. Kouropatkine of the Akhal T4kg country, and the circumstances which led to the present Russian expedition against those tribes List of officers killed and wounded at Geuk-Tepg," as published in the "Journal de St. Petersbourg" To convey to Mr. S. Churchill approval of his Report on camp at Chekishler Report on the expedition organized at Samara for the survey of Central Asia. Extract from the " Journal de St. Petersbourg," and memorandum as to the movements of this expedition Page 127 127 130 130 133 134 138 139 140 141 143 144 145 146 148 150 isp 151 153 154 154 156 156 157 157 159 160 160 TABLE OF CONTENTS, IX No. Name. Date. Subject. Page 154 Mr. Plunkett .. .. Oct. 22, 1879 Decree to the effect that time passed in the terri- tories of lihe Amou-Daria and of Ferganah by troops or members of the military Administration is to count double for pension 162 155 » SJ • • •• 27, Departure of General Kaufmann, Governor-General of Turkestan, from St. Petersburgh for Tashkend, 163 156 Consul Churchill . . . . Sept. 5, Despatches to Her Majesty's Minister at Tehran on the subject of the Russian expedition on the Attrek . . 163 157 it » •• *. Hi Accident to Russian army near Chat through a landslip. Despatch to Mr. R. Thomson re- • »» n • • specting . . 164 158 23, Despatches to Her Majesty's Legation at Tehran relating to the Russian Expedition under General Llamakin . . . . • . ' 165 159 Mr. R. Thomson ,. . 15, State of the Russian expeditionary force. . 166 160 » >i • • 21, Troops at Herat under no control 167 161 99 99 • • • • 21, Repulse of Russian army at Geuk-Tepe telegraphed from Koochan 167 162 II 91 • ■ • • 22, Meshed Agent confirms intelligence of above 167 163 II II • * • • 22. Protests addressed by the Persian Government to the Russian Legation at Tehran with reference to Russian proceedings at Hassan Kuli, and on the subject of interference on their part with Karee Kaleh. Right of Persia to Hassan Kuli denied by Russian Minister in his reply 167 164 II » • • . • 23, Mutiny among the troops at Herat. Governor's life threatened 168 165 1) >| . • . . 24, Telegram from Consul Churchill reporting serious engagement beyond Karee Kaleh. Russians sent 1,000 sick to the Caspian 168 166 II II • • • . Oct. 3, Arrival of General Tergoukassoff at Chekishler with reinforcements. The landslip at Chat. Russian defeat at Karee Kaleh not yet confirmed 168 167 II 11 •• •• 3, Letters from Herat and Agent at Meshed. Events at Merv,' Herat, and Boojnoord. Details as to the Russian advance into the Akhal country 168 168 M »l • • • • 7. Repulse of the Russian array. Telegram from Consul Churchill and letter from Meshed Agent confirms previous reports respecting 170 169 SI II • • • ■ 8, Letter from, the Agent at Meshed. Conflicting re- ports respecting the Russian expedition 171 170 Mr, Plunkett . . , . 30, Engagement at Geuk-Tgpe. Letter in the " Golos " from its correspondent at Beurma describing 171 171 11 II • • ■ • Nov. 1, Submarine cable successfully laid between Baku and Krasnovodsk .. 172 172 » 11 • • • - M> Defeat at Geuk-T6p6. Account of published in the official portion of the " Caucasus " newspaper . . 173 173 II II ■ • • • 17, Telegram published in " Moscow Gazette " from the expedition for exploring the Oxus, and surveying proposed route for the Central Asiatic railway .. 177 174 Mr. R. Thomson .. 28, Russian convoy at Dhozulum attacked by Turko- (Telegraphic) mans . . . . . . . . . . 177 175 M II ■ • • • ' (Telegraphic) 30, Intention of Eyoub Khan to march on Candahar . . 177 176 II II • • • ■ Oct. 9, Massacre at Cabul not known at Herat . . 178 177 II II 13, Presence of General Tergoukassoff at Chat. Move- ments of his army . . 178 178 II » • • • • 16, Return of Russian forces to Chat on its way back to Chekishler . , . . . , 178 179 II II • • 24, Letters from Herat and the Agent at Meshed. Events at Cabul aud in Seistan. Details as to engagement at Geuk-T6p6 . . 178 ISO II II • • • • Nov. 4, Letter from Herat. Turbulent state of affairs there 180 181 Consul Churchill . , Oct. 5, Defeat of the Russians beyond Karee Kaleh. De- spatch to Mr. R. Thomson with reference to 180 182 »i II • • • • 15, Further despatch to Mr. R. Thomson on the subject of the retreat of the Russian force to Chekishler . 181 183 Mr. Plunkett Dec. 3, Extract from the " St. Petersburgh Gazette," giving an account of an eye-witness of the engagement atGeuk-T6pe 182 184 II 11 • • ■ • 3, Statement in the " Orenburg Listok " as to the dispatch of four regiments, newly raised from the Orenburg Cossacks, to the province of Turkestan 183 185 II » • • • ■ 15, Items of Turkestan news from the Russian press . , 183 186 II >» • • • • 16, Extract from " Moscow Gazette," giving accounts from the expedition for the exploration of the Oxus. 184 [1271 Further Correspondence respecting Affairs in Central Asia. 18V9. No. 1. 1 Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received January 6, 1 879.) My Lord, St. Petershurgh, Decemler 31, 1878. THE " Golos " of the ll-th December states that the ChineseuMigsion, which has already arrived at Berlin, will shortly reach St. PetersburgHT It states further, that on the arrival of the Mission the Frontier question will be subjected to careful consideration, and that the cession Cor rather retro- cession) of Kuldja, notwithstanding certain statements of the press, is not even contemplated. The "Golos" further announces the expected arrival of General Kaufmann, Governor-General of Turkestan, at the latter end of December, in order to take part in the negotiation. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. " iirwiii 111- Mil iiiiiiiii ■ -- ■ -■ ' No. 2. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury.- — (Received January 6, 1879.) My Lord, St. Pbtersburgh, December 31, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship, in translation by Mr. Michell from the Russian press, an article giving some interesting particulars with regard to the overflow of the Oxus, and the possibility, of that river returning to its former course into the Caspian. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 2. Newspaper Extract. (Translation.) , ^ OyEBPLOW OF THE Oxus. — The recent overflow of the Oxus into the Uaboi, or old bed, attracted the . attention of the Russian public, and, as is known, the Government have taken measures, by means of a special expedition, to investigate this fact, and its bearing on the question, which has long occupied the scientific world, i.e., the possibility of the Kiver Oxus returning to its old bed, and its con- nection with the Caspian Sea. While awaiting the particulars which this expedi- tion will obtain, the account received from Major-General Llamakin of this most important occurrence, and which was published in a recent number of the journal " Kaokas," is not devoid of interest. It may be seen from this communication that the overflow proved to be far more considerable than was stated in the first accounts, and that the cause of such overflow was the unusual rise of water in the Oxus in the present year. The greatest overflow took place at three points : — 1. At a distance of four or five farsangs below the town of Hodjeli, by two separate arms. From here the water proceeded along several old canals southward of Kunia-Urgench, before reaching which place it turned westward to Urki (Urki- Burum, the lower extremity of Aibugir) ; it now fills the Aral-Dengis depression fthe former Ak-Tchiganak Bay in the southern portion of Aibugir) ; at this place the flow of water was so considerable that it reached to the ruins of Diu-Keskin and Shimali (Shernan), adjacent to the Uzboi. The Kerghiz caravans cross at Urki either by fording or in boats; at the present time, after the subsidence of the water, this depression continues to be filled, and the water, if not arrested, may easily be directed into the Uzboi. 2. At Kildir, close to the town of Kipchak. Here the water proceeded along canals north of the towu of Manghit, over the Chandyr and Suzan country, bursting at ihe latter place a dam south of Kunia-Urgench, and then flowed into the Uzboi. Here it broke through the dams of Ushak and Salahk-Bendi, and proceeded along the Uzboi to the dam of Egen-Klitch, over which it flowed and filled the Lakes of Sara-Kamish and the adjacent salt marshes of Kokh-Pular, where, duWiig the Khivan Expedition in 1876, well No. 1 was sunk. All communication along the Uzboi between Kunia-Urgench and Sara-Kamish was suspended, travellers and caravans were obliged to proceed north of Deu-Kesken ; the communication between Kunia-Urgench and Khiva was kept up by boats. 3. As considerable a body of water flowed into the Uzboi through the Daflalik, which is fed by the canal of Shahk-Abad. At Kizil-Takir the Darialik burst the dam which separates the Uzboi from the Shamrat-Aryk, and effected a junction in the Uzboi at Kunia-Urgench with the water which had entered by way of Kildir. To what extent the natural irrigation of the steppe may be considered as lasting it is at the present time difficult to say, the more so that, according to late accounts, the Khivan Governments are taking measures to repair the breached made by the water, in consequence of which, and the subsidence of the water, the current along the Uzboi has lost its former force. In any case, as very justly remarks General Llaraakin, the present overflow of the Oxus has shown clearly, in the first place, the possibility of inundating the Uzboi for a considerable distance without any difficulty whatever, without any great expenditure, and without particularly affecting the economic condition of the Khivan Oasis ; and, secondly, the manner in which to proceed when further investi- ? gations of the Urun-Daryn Commission shall clearly establish the possibility of a general and complete inundation of the Uzboi. The fact which has just occurred of the possibility of inundating the Uzboi to Kokh-Pular (a distance of 200 versts),^' in connection with the prior investigation as to the possibility of navigating the Bay of Karabugask to its extreme southern shores (which indent the continent for a distance of 150 versts), curtails the desolate and almost waterless Krasnovodsk- Khivan route from 600 to nearly 200 versts, a circumstance too important in regasd to our relations with Central Asia not to attract the attention of all those interested; in this significant question. Several members of the last caravan from Khiva which has arrived at Krasnovodsk brought with them water from the Oxus which they had obtained from Kokh-Pular. No. 3. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received January 6, 1879.) " My Lord, St. Petersburgh, December 31, 1878, I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship, in translation by Mr. Michell, articles from the Russian press on the " triumph of English policy in Central Asig,." L have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 3. Newspaper Extracts. (Translation.) Teitjmph op English Policy in Central Asl4..— The "St. Petersburgh Gazette "of the |fth December, 1878, and the " Russki-Vedomisti " of the same date, give expression to the following opinions with respect to the successful issue of the policy of England in Central Asia .- — The "St. Petersburgh Gazette " states ;— " England, in the person of her Ministry, is celebrating a victory — a victory so complete that the authors of it are unable to disguise their delight within the bounds of diplomatic etiquette. " There can be no doubt that Lord Beaconsfield has shown himself a very able statesman, and one who is capable of gauging the spirit and resources of his opponents, and of profiting by circumstances.'* Without shedding one drop of English blood he.took advantage of our victories to place England in suzerain relations towards Turkey, and secured guarantees beside whicn our acqui- sitions, bought at so high a price, bear no comparison whatever. And by a bold stroke, for which thousands of Indian militiamen have paid with their lives, he obtained for his. country a commanding position in Central Asia — a position we have strived to secure for the last fifteen years. Apparently, he played his game with perfect confidence, knowing his adversaries' cardsj, and feeling assured that not one of his bold moves would be opposed." The " Russki-Vedomisti " of the ^th December, 1878, expresses itself some- what similarly. It says: — " Let us give the English their due : they know how to obtain what they want, notwithstanding circumstances apparently unfavourable for the attainment of their object. Such, for example, is the present military and political success of the Afghan Expedition, and which admits of hardly any doubt. The English knew with whom they had to deal, and did not hesitate at punishing the Ameer for his unpleasant hospitality to the Russian Mission. Events have justified Lord Beaconsfield's policy, and the results which he sought will be attained. In this mariner the English in the long run have profited by our policy in Central Asia, to make out of it a weapon against ourselves. This they have succeeded in doing, by compelling the Ameer to pay dearly for the hospitality he afforded the Russian Mission." No. 4. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received January 6.) (Extract.) St. Peter shurgh, January 1, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship, in translation by Mr. Michell, an interesting article from the " Golos," contrasting the policy of England and Russia in Central Asia, and strongly advocating all abstention of Russia in the war between England and Afghanistan. But what is more striking (in recollecting the antecedents of this journal^ is the tone of this article condemning a policy of aggression in Central Asia on the part of Russia, the heavy expenses of which have to be borne by the " impoverished " Russian nation, whose interests are, moreover, opposed to such a policy. Inclosure in No. 4. , Extract from the "^Golos" of December if, 1878. (Translation.) , THE "Golos" of the ^th December, 1878, publishes the following Article advocating the non-interference of Russia in the war between England and Afghanistan, and condemning a policy of aggression in Central Asia, the heavy cost of which has to be borne by the impoverished Russian nation, whose interests are, moreover, opposed to such a policy : — Looking at the. course of events of a recent date in Central Asia, it is impossible not to admit that it is not Russian but English policy that is taking the offensive, although in the press and in private discussion it appears quite otherwise; we express our threats against English rule in India, whereas the British Government, wliile talking of defepce, is actually engaged in offensive operations. Is Russian participation in the contest between England and Afghanistan possible with any chance of success ? In the present condition of things such an undertaking would demandj on our part, an enormous strain that would not be counterbalanced by any possible success. /Furthermore, such a strain would weaken Russia's strength where it is most required to maintain her importance as an [1271 B 2 4 European State, while the most that could be gained would be the acquisition of new territories for the development of a militar)- political power, without any chance of utilizing such acquisition for the economic requirements of our native population, which supports the burden of all State enterprises. The whole of that mass of Russian people, numbering millions, who, with their hard-earned copecks, princi- pally fill the State Treasury, and who recently have become bitterly conscious that the work of the liberation of the Slavs could not be executed as it was desired, solely on account of the inadequacy of means to break the European condition hostile to Russia, that mass of people would find itself bewildered by a burden, which would be saddled on it, in the name of inexplicable Russian interests in Central Asia, in a struggle for the independence of the Ameer of Afghanistan. Military political projects are easily drawn up, and it is not difficult to pro- claim their utility and easy fulfilment. But it is not so easy to carry out these* plans and projects in practice, and it is still more difficult to have to bear the burden of their realization on one's shoulders. There can be no doubt that the military political administration of Russia's Central Asian possessions is at the height of its mission. The interests of the Russian nation are dear to it, and, consequently, in exchange for those political combinations for the discomfiture of hateful Albion, it must secure power and profit for Russia in those parts of Central' Asia which are actually in our hands. The Russian Government in Central Asia has before it a complicated and serious task, to utilize newly-acquired territories for the use and benefit of the nation which bore the cost of their acquisition. A consideration of the Afghan War, with its impending results, suggests the following inquiry : — In what manner are we to organize the administration of our Central Asian possessions so as to establish and develop in them a form of civic life capable of affording the State not only expenditure but also revenue ? Instead of newspaper projects as to the manner of assisting the Ameer of Afghanistan without engaging in a war with England, who, as the experiences of late years has shown, does not hesitate to peep at her enemies' cards when the stake is sufficiently high, it would seem more rational to occupy ourselves with dis- cussing the question as to what extent, in view of the general interests of the Stated is an exclusively military political administration in our Central Asian possessions profitable ? Would it not be more natural and simple if each branch of the Govern- ment throughout the whole of Russia had its share in the Administration ? For the last twenty-five years Russia has sufficiently pursued a policy in Central Asia under which it was found necessary, in order to strengthen her influence in the provinces under her rule, to extend that influence over the neighbouring countries. Following this rule we have approached the Hindu-Koosh. What then ? Is it still too early to halt here, as even that tremendous mountain chain may be passed ? If all this is necessary from a military-political point of view, then, for the sake of economic and national interests, which are nearer to the hearts of the people than anything else, we ought to rejoice that the English have advanced to meet us. In general the idea of establishing Russian rule from the Vistula to the Indus, and from the Arctic Ocean to the Sea of Marmora and the Persian Gulf, is nothing | more than the fruits of a vivid imagination stimulated by the encouragement of J aggressive aspirations. , 1 No. 5. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— {Received January 10, 1879.) My Lord, Tehran, November 21, 1878. 1 HAVE the honour to mform your Lordship that M. Bakouline returned to Asterabad on the 7th instant, and M. Petroff", who is a well-known topographer, but passes as M. Bakouline's Secretary, passed through Boojnoord, on his way from Khorassan, before Captain Napier arrived there. The latter left Booinoord on 1 1 e J 0th, reached Shahrood on the 19th, and will reach here to-morrow. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. 5 No. 6. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salislury. —(Received January 10, 1879.) (Extract.) Tehran, November 30, 1878. I HAVE the honour to transmit herewith translations of four letters which I have received from the Agent at Meshed. ^ The news of Taj Mohammed Khan's having been obliged to withdraw from Persian Seistan to Kala Fatti on the Afghan side of the frontier is therein con- firmed. It is further reported that a letter has been received in Meshed from the Itimad-es-Sultaheh (who had been sent from Khorassan with a detachment of troops to quell the revolt in Seistan), in which he stated that Taj Mohammed Khan had received no support frfhn either Shereef Khan or Ibrahim Khan, Belooch. I have brought this statement to the knowledge of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, who observed that it had not yet been confirmed in the Reports received by him from Meshed, but that he was prepared to find that the statements made respecting the recent disturbances in Seistan had been exaggerated. Inclosure 1 in No. 6, The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. ("Translation.) November 2, 1878. I RECEIVED a letter from Herat, dated the 11th October. I am informed thereby that, after a consultation held by the authorities at that ]>lace, they relinquished the intention of sending regular troops, with guns, to Kohistan, but assembled all the horse and put them under the command of Vali Mohammed Khan, Jemsheedee, with orders to proceed to the frontier and watch the movements of the Turkomans, said to have assembled with the intention of making a raid upon Herat territory ; that the Turkomans, learning this, had turned off towards Kooshk, and yesterday news was received that they had gone towards Bala Moorghab, intending an attack on Meimaneh. My informant also writes that he heard it rumoured that two Russian officers, accompanied by 300 horsemen of Khorassan, came as far as Kafir Kaleh, but did not enter the Herat territory ; from there they proceeded towards Kooshk and Meimaneh. As to news from Cabul, he states that nothing has been heard of Sirdar Abdullah Khan, who went to suppress the revolt which had broken out near Cabul. Three regiments of infantry with guns and horsemen had been sent to Chalcote. The people and troops at Herat were poor and in distress. The officers who had gone to Cabul from Herat will return about the 8th October, and all the news from that city will then be known. I received the following letter from a correspondent at Serrekhs under date of the 29th October :— " Some time ago a petition was addressed to the Prince Governor respecting the son of Kousheed Khan, and a reply was forwarded to the Sultan. Before the messenger arrived, however, the son of Kousheed Khan, Arooz Morad Khan, and several other Chiefs had removed their tents and families to Chulgul, and were awaiting tidings from Meshed. On receiving the Prince's reply, they all came and encamped their families at the Bokhara Gate, whilst they themselves alighted here, where they still are. Sefer Ali Agha has been sent a day before them to Meshfed; the other Chiefs and Elders will follow a day after, some to remain as hostages ; these and others to settle affairs. Mohammed Verdee Khan and Yakhmoor Khan are amongst them. I do not know whether His Royal Highness ha^ returned from his expedition to Derehgez or not. As to their quarters, allowances, &c., the person who is acting during the Prince Governor's absence will provide all. Meer Ab has not yet arrived." General Llamakin has gone to Krasnovodsk with 300 horsemen, and the rest of the troops, 4,000 infantry and 500 horse, are at Chat, and fortifying the place and digging a moat round the fort. The Prince Governor is at Derehgez, and intends taking a body of picked horsemen to attack Anon and l&kabad. It is said he will return to Meshed by the 11th. He brings AUahyar Khan, under arrest, with himself to Meshed ; his brother, Mohammed Ali Khan, is appointed Governor of Derehgez. Dowlet Aurad Khan has escaped with his followers to the Akkal country. The son of Rejjeb Bahadur, who had been sent to ascertain whether the Saryk messengers were sincere in their representations by asking the submission of that tribe to Persia or not, returned here on the 29th October; 100 of the Saryk Turkomans also accompanied him ; thus it appears that the tribes intend to submit to Persia. Six days ago M. Petroff was at Derehgez. Twenty-four of the Elders of the Merv Turkomans arrived here to-day. Ihey will remain as hostages for the 2,000 tomans to be paid by the local authorities for the removal of the tribe from Merv to Serrekhs. Inclosure 2 in No. 6. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) November 9, 1878. YESTERDAY I received a letter from Herat, dated the 2nd, reporting as follows : ni u 1 "1 have learned that, after the arrival of the Russian Envoy at Cabul, the Indian Government firmly insisted that the Ameer should accept certain conditions (mentioned by them), or give up certain places to be occupied by British troops. The Ameer is much put about at this state of affairs, and does not know how to act. Since the death of the Heir Apparent he has been very cautious in matters concerning the frontier, as there have been several disturbances. The Governor of Herat has collected twenty beautiful horses as a present to the Ameer, which he will send to-morrow or the day after. " It is rumoured here that a Persian Envoy has been appointed to proceed to Cabul. Two days ago two lakhs of krans were received from Candahar to pay the troops, for the revenue of Herat is not sufficient for that purpose, and they have to be paid from other places. " Ten days ago a native of Kain arrived here. He reported that the son of the Ameer of Kain is besieged in the fort of Seistan by Taj Mohammed Khan, but he has a full supply of provisions and ammunition, and had sent word to his father not to be alarmed, as he had five years' supplies. The Ameer of Kain has collected a numerous force with the intention of moving to the assistance of his son, but there is an unfordable river, so he is obliged to wait to have some kind of bridge made, and then cross over. The Shah has also dispatched troops from Meshed and Tehran to Seistan. The Herat authorities are on the look-out, and have* sent Agents to report how affairs go on in that province. There is no fresh news from Turkestan." Safdar Ali Khan, Commander-in-chief of the troops at Candahar, recently died, and his body has been brought here for burial at the Holy Shrine. Being a Sheeah, the Shiites at Candahar will suffer after his death. I have further learned that the people have risen against Shere Ali Khan at three places in the Kohistan district near Cabul, viz., Badr Nameh, Sejek, and Panj ' Sheer. The Ameer dispatched more than a regiment against them, but the troops, on leaving Cabul, went to their homes. On the Ameer learning this he dispatched another regiment, paying them beforehand. These fought the Kohistan people, but were defeated, losing more than 300 men ; the rest have taken refuge in a strong- hold, and reported the matter to the Ameer. Events foretell the downfall of Ameer Shere Ali Khan. Four days ago the Hishmet-ul-Mulk (Governor of Kain) sent a telegram to Tehran, saying that he had crossed the river, and that Taj Mohammed Kh&n had escaped to Kaleh Fatti. This appears to be premature, as none of the officers sent from here have confirmed this news. The picked body of 1,500 horse sent by the Prince Governor to attack Anou * and Ishkabad have failed in their object, the Turkomans having made adequate preparations to repel them. The Prince intends leaving 200 infantry and 200 horse at Derehgez to protect the new Governor Mohammed Ali Khan, and thence intends visiting Koochan. AUahyar Khan is under arrest in the Prince's camp. His family arrived here to-day. The son of Shah Nevaz Khan left for Tehran during the last week. * To secure Dowlet Murad Khan, who fled to Anou from Derehgez, when driven from that place by the Prince Governor's force.— R. F. T. The town of Meshed is kept in good order by the guardian of the Holy Shrine, who is the Acting Governor. A correspondent writes to me on the 30th October that "the Russians at Chat consist of from 4,000 to 5,000 infantry and about 500 horse. They are digging moats and erecting buildings of sun-burnt bricks, and have bought about seventy or eighty Turkoman tents. Their Greneral, who left on the 18th October, has returned. Some say he went as far as Moscow; others say he went only to Tiflis. A man who recently came in from Chat reports that no pro- visions whatever are procured there from Persia, though bread is sometimes taken from Karee Kaleh and sold at 1 kran a batman. The tents have been purchased at 25 to 30 tomans a-piece. The T6ke Turkomans visit the Russian camp in parties of four and five. They are well received, and all receive presents in money. The Russian Consul arrived here from Meshed, and left for Asterabad vik Shah- rood. He has surveyed the country all round here ; seventy horsemen accompanied him as far as Marghr. Inclosure 3 in No. 6. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) November 16, 1878. (Extract.) LAST week I received the following letter from Herat, dated the 26th October: — The servants who accompanied the body of Safdar Ali Khan and that of his wife to Meshed waited upon Sirdar Eyub Khan, who questioned them respecting Ameer Shere Ali Khan's affairs. They informed him that he had no relations with the British Government ; in fact, some time ago, Ata Mahommed Khan, the British Agent, was turned out of Cabul in an uncivil manner by Mohassils, whilst the Russian Envoy was received with much honour, and the latter has informed the Ameer that should he require any war supplies the Russian Govern- ment would be glad to grant them: the Ameer had, however, replied, that as yet he did not require any. The servants also reported to the Sirdar that the chief Russian officer had gone back from Cabul, and Meerza Mohamnied Hussein, the Debir-ul-Mulk of Ameer Shere Ali Khan, was appointed to accompany him. It was not known whether he had gone in the capacity of a Mehmandar as far as the frontier, or whether he was to accompany the Russian officer to Turkestan on business. I received the following letter from Boojnoord, dated the 2nd Novemtjer : — " I have just received intelligence that a body of 300 T^ke horsemen attacked Chat, killing two Russians and carrying off forty camels. The General was there also. The T6k6s were followed for 2 farsakhs, but with no result. General Llamakin has brought 300 camels from Krasnovodsk along with himself. Fifty camels more haVe also recently arrived with provisions. It was arranged that the General should return to Krasnovodsk with two regiments of infantry and a company of Cossacks. The force which remains at Chat will then consist of two regiments of infantry, whose winter provisions have already been laid in. The Russian troops are getting their provisions, such as beef and biscuits, from Russia. The son of the Shooja-ud-Dovvleh made a present of two horses to the Russian Consul, and the Governor of Boojnoord also gave him two. It is also reported that 1,000 camels have been brought by the Akhal Tufkd- mans to buy grain, which they purchase at 25 krans the khawar. M. Petroff arrived at Boojnoord four days after the Consul had left, coming direct from Derehgez and Naochan, and left the following day so as to overtake the Consul : he had with him an escort of twenty horsemen. Inclosure 4 in No. 6. Letter received from Meri), dated October 25, 1878. (Translation.) REGARDING news from the direction of Bokhara, the Russians are building a fort at Oneh Achak, and they have laid the foundation for a Serbaz Khaneh (barrack) at Chehar Joo. A * has been sent towards Sheerabad. There is no intercourse, however, at present, by way of Chehar Joo between Merv and Bokhara, the reason being that several camels having been carried off by the Merv people from those of Chehar Joo, the latter retaliated by detaining a caravan belonging to Merv. The camels brought in by the Merv horsemen were about 100, and they were the property of the Ata tribe, who are now, at the instigation of the Russians, demanding to have them restored. The Russian troops have withdrawn, having been defeated by the Akhals, who captured 500 of their camels. No. 7. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury, — (Received January 11, 1879.) My Lord, Tehran, November SO, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose translations of two letters from the Agent at Asterabad, together with translation of a telegram reporting that frequent attacks were being made by the T6ke Turkomans on the Russian detachment stationed at Chat. The Russian troops at Chat are believed to consist of about 4,000 men, but I understand that the Russian Minister here has stated that they do not exceed 400. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure I in No. 7. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) November 3, 1878. THE Turkoman tribes, especially the Daz, are very hostile; they plunder everywhere, and carry off anyone they can. It is reported that fresh troops are leaving Chekishler.f The former ones are stationed at Chekishler, Chat, and Bayat Hajji. Great quantities of Pampas grass has been bought up at high prices and stored up. It is said the Russians intend erecting buildings at these places. During the last few days the Persian Foreign Office Agent and the Passport Officer have had a dispute with Baron Joseph, the chief Russian merchant, the result of which was that the latter agreed to pay 9,000 tomans bv the 21st March, 1879. The T6k^ Turkomans are erecting fortifications at Khoja Kaleh. Orders have been received from Tehran to make a census of the inhabitants of this province, but it will be a very difficult task. Inclosure 2 in No. 7. The Asterabad Agent to Mr, K Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) November 11, 1878. THE Russian Consul arrived here on the 7th. The usual deputation sent out to welcome him in did not meet him, as he announced his arrival by the Findirisk road two hours before sunset, but he himself came in by that of Shahrood two hours before midday. Three days were occupied in receiving and paying the usual official visits. The two officers who accompanied him and his Mirza have been sent from Boojnoord through the Goklan country, and have therefore not arrived here yet. There is a rumour, however, that one of the officers has started direct from Shahrood for the Port of Gez. The Consul expressed his satisfaction at the way he had been treated by the • Word illegible. Reads like " origin." t Sk in orig. Khorassan authorities, except the Musteshar-ul-Mulk, of whose conduct he com- plained. His Secretary leaves for Tehran in a few days. The Russian troops are stationed at the three places already reported. They are buying up all the cattle and provisions they can. There is a quantity of Russian money in the market ; 3 silver roubles fetch 8^ krans, and the gold Imperial 2rkraps. The native mer- chants take Russian money to Russia to pay for their purchases instead of native merchandize. The Turkoman tribes are hostile, and plunder wherever they can. The Atabai tribe has gone further off into- the plains, on the plea that all their flocks have been stolen by the Persian troops. On the 6th they attacked ^e Persian camp, carrying off two soldiers. Inclosure 3 in No. 7. (Translation.) (Telegraphic.) November 14, 1878. INTELLIGENCE has been received that Noor Verdee Khan and the son of Kousheed Khan, of Merv, and the other T6ke Chiefs, have collected in large numbers their best horse, and have agreed with each other to attack by turns the Russian encampment at Chat, 500 horsemen being employed for each attack. Thus, on the 4th, they assailed the camp, and killed six or seven wood cutters, besides carrying off four or five prisoners and from sixty to seventy camels. One of the Tek^s was taken, his horse having run away and carried him within the Russian lines, and two others were killed. The nomad portion of the Yemoot tribe having received threatening messages from the T6k6s ha,ve taken alarm, and are hurrying up to the Goorgan River in such numbers that the whole Goorgan plain is covered with men, cattle, and flocks. No. a Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.-— {Received January 10, 1879.) My Lord, Tehran, December 4, 1878. A CORRESPONDENT in Afghanistan, under date of the 16lh November, reports that news has been received from Maimaneh that two Russian officers intended visiting Herat as travellers. Preparations were therefore being made for their reception with much ceremony, and several Chiefs with an escort of 200 cavalry had gone out several stages to meet them and bring them to Herat in state. He also mentions that the inhabitants had, in various places, refused to pay taxes ; and that cholera existed at both Candahar and the capital. I tin ATf* tV f* (Signed) ' RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 9. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received January 10, 1879.) (Extract.) Tehran, December 5, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translations of correspondence con- taining intelligence from Afghanistan, and from the Turkomans at Akhal. Inclosure 1 in No. 9. (Translation.) November 15, 1878. LETTERS were received from Maimaneh to-day announcing that two Russian officers were about to visit Herat as travellers, and directing that they should be received with honour and ceremony. The Governor has accordingly been making preparations to receive them as his guests, and he has ordered two of his special Pishkhidmets, with several Herat Chiefs- and 200 Herat horsemen, to start to-morrow from the city and proceed for four or five marches in the direction whence they are coming, to meet and conduct [127] C 10 them hither in great state. On the day when they are to enter Herat it is expected that the troops will be jDaraded to receive them. There is no doubt about their coming. They will probably arrive in about a fortnight. The Russians seem to be eagerly endeavouring to make themselves intimately acquainted with this country and wh^t is going on in Afghanistan, but the English appear indifferent, though they, doubtless, know their own interests. A traveller recently arrived here from Bokhara, and I questioned him. He states that all the territories beyond the Oman water (? Amou or Oxus) have been annexed by Russia with the exception of the Bokhara State, which remains nominally independent, but is, in reality, as much the property of the Russians as if they had taken possession of it. Inclosure 2 in No. 9. to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) November 23, 1878. IN a letter which I have received from Herat, dated the 8th, it is stated that the Russian Envoys who had come to Cabul informed the Ameer that the object of the Mission was to ascertain what degree of friendship he was disposed to accord to them as neighbours in Turkestan, and that the Ameer had replied that it was for them first to afford- him some guarantee of this friendship towards him. After much discussion as to the nature of the guarantee which he desired, it was arranged that the Ameer should dispatch one of his Officers of State, Mirza Mohammed Hassan, with the Russian Envoy, to visit the Russian Governor-General of Turkestan, who would telegraph to St. Petersburgh that a confidential Agent of the Ameer had come with the object of satisfying himself as to the friendship of Russia, and that he should thus obtain through his owil Agent an accurate and full knowledge as to the friendly disposition of Russia. On the other hand the British authorities, on hearing of the Ameer's dealings with the Russian officers, had dispatched letters from Peshawur to Cabul to say that if the Ameer intended to break the conditions accepted by the late Ameer and by himself also when he visited Umballah, and to make friends with Russia, the foe of England, he must first settle their demands,. The English were also believed to have insisted on having troops quartered at several places. It is further reported that the Ameer has become morose and thoughtful lately ; that he does not attend to local affairs, and that the people and troops are ill-disposed towards him ; that since the death of the Heir-Apparent he is greatly perplexed, and does not venture to release his son Yakoob Khan ; that the people in several places on the Cabul frontiers are refusing to pay the taxes or furnish; soldiers, and that this state of disquiet is gradually spreading. His letter of the 8th also contains intelligence of the existence of cholera at Candahar and Cabul. Inclosure 3 in No. 9. Statement made hy an Afghan refugee, at Tehran, December 3, 1878. (Translation.) A MAN has arrived by way of Deli Teagee in twenty-two days. He brings news from Cabul up to the 10th November. The Ameer, Shere Ali Khan, had withdrawn his troops from Jellalabad'and had concentrated them at Cabul. There are eighteen regiments of 600 men each in Herat ; six of these had been ordered to be ready to march to Cabul when desired. People in Afghanistan were everywhere dissatisfied with the Ameer. Grain was scarce and provisions dear at Cabul. The Russian Envoy had returned to Russia by way of Turkestan on the 18th August, accompanied by Morusha Mahommed Hassan. Two Russian officers remained, however, at Cabul with a doctor and thirty Cossacks. They were lodged in the garden of the Bala Hissar. 11 No, 10. Sir L. Mullet to Lord Tenterden. — {Received January 11.) My Lord, - India Office, January 10, 1879. 1 AM directed by Viscount Cranbrook to forward herevsfith, to be laid before Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, copies of letters from the Government of India, with inclosed diaries and news reports relating to the aliains of Afghanistan and adjacent countries. I have, &c. (Signed) LOUIS MALLET. Inclosure 1 in No. 10. The Viceroy of India to Viscount Cranbrook. My Lord, Camp, Lahore, November 21, 187S. I HAVE the honour to forward, for the information of Her Majesty's Govern- ment, copy of Peshawur Confidential Diary, dated 31st October, 1878. I have, &c. (Signed) LYTTON. Inclosure 2 in No. 10. Peshawur Confidential Diary, dated October 31, 1878, 1 . THE Patwari, Mir Husain Khan, who accompanied Nawab Gholam Hassan K han to Cabul, states that they were absolute prisoners during their stay. They could not move out without the permission of Abdul Aziz Nazir, and an official of the Ameer's always accompanied them ; they were allowed intercourse with no one. Nothing was ever written by the Nawab to the British authorities except after con- sultation with Shah Mahommed Khan, known as the new Wazir : and no one else was present at these interviews. All envelopes received by the Nawab from Peshawur were taken first to the Wazir, and were brought by him to the [N^awab and opened in his presence. When, for instance, the Nawab wrote that the Ameer's intentions were friendly, and that, if the Envoy desired permission to come to Cabul, he must wait until arrangements should be made for supplies upon the road, the only reason was that the Ameer was awaiting a reply from Russia. The above Mir Husain Khan generally wrote for the Nawab, so his information may be relied upon. 2. There is a strong feeling abroad in Peshawur that the Ameer will come to terms with the British Government, and this has probably led to the report that a messenger from the Ameer to the British Government had i-eached Jellalabad on his way to Peshawur. Perhaps, too, this feeling is prompted by the strong sympathy which many of the leading men in the Peshawur Valley feel for the Ameer — not sympathy with his conduct, which they blame unreservedly, but sympathy with him as the leading or representative Pathan Chieftain, whom they believe to have been misled by Russia, towards his own ruin, 3. Haibab and Turabaz, Bosti Khels, who went with the other Pass Afredees to CaUul, mention, among other things, that one of the Russians has certainly been killed. There has always been a report that one had died. Two sentries are now said to be over each Russian officer in Cabul. The Afredees ^ay that a Russian Envoy has certainly returned, who wears a spike on his helmet, and that they saw bim during the last five days that they were there. When they asked the Ameer if the-y could do him any service he replied that he was not yet ready, and that they were to be careful to make no move vet awhile. 4. Natives of these parts do not now doubt for a moment but that the Ameer has made complete arrangements with Russia. They are convinced that nothing but Russian support could have made the Ameer act as he is doing. • p27r C 2 12 5. A man who left Cabul about the 20th instant declares that he saw with his own eyes 200 camels iaden enter Cabul from Balkh, that they were escorted by the Ameer's soldiers, but that some Russians also accompanied them. This is con- firmed by another man ; but both of them say that they did not hear of the Russian Envoy's return ; and certainly his return has been kept extremely quiet. The Ameer is said to have given orders to discourage all political discussions. He is daily engaged in calculating the numbers of his levies, and is said to have arranged for the delivery of letters twice a-day from Balkh ! A previous report is to the effect that the Russian Envoy has really returned, and that there are Russian troops at Taktapul who have escorted treasure, and, again, that 53 camel-loads of treasure have entered Cabul. 6. A trustworthy informant reports that he was present in the Ameer's durbar, together with the Russians, when the Ameer was examining a repeating rifle, firing twenty shots, which had been presented to him by the Russians., The Ameer sent for his armourer, and offered him 1,000 rupees if he would produce a facsimile. There was a report in Cabul that the Maharajah of Cashmere had been instructed by the British Government to move troops by Kashgar and Badakshan, and that the Ameer had ordered two regiments lo Bajour and Dir. 7. Mahommed Shah Khan of Lalpura is said to have written to the Mir Akhor for money. The Mir Akhor replied that he had addressed the Ameer, Mahommed Shah Khan was at Sapri with 600 Jezailchis. Faiz Mahommed Khan is said tu have been taken away from Ali Musjid to Lowargai, very ill. 8. It is reported that Takhtamash Beg, a son of Abdul Ghafur Beg of Kokand, has been arrested by the Russians whilst wandering about Uratappa in disguise. Up to the present time, Abdul Ghafur Beg had not taken his expenses from the Ameer, The Ameer has now told him that he will have his family brought to him in Cabul from Turkestan, and allow him 400 rupees per mensem. [The Russians appear to be assisting the Ameer to rid himself of the sons of the late Sirdars Mahommed Azam Khan and Mahommed Afzal Khan, who had been until lately under surveillance in Cabul ; and the Ameer is retaining a bold upon Abdul Ghafur Beg, who might prove troublesome to Russia, and no doubt intended to be so, as late diaries show.] In Ghazni the Mollahs are very oppressive, trying to urge the people on towards ' a religious war, for which they have no inclination. Some 400 Mollahs are said to be going about in a body preaching war. 9. The Ameer is said to have planned that Asmatulla Khan and Sayd Ma- hommed Badshah of Kunar should collect the Bajour Khans, and persuade them to attack British territory from the dit-ection of Swat. The Bajour Khans refused. The Ameer then wished the Badshah to recover two lakhs of rupees and 1,000 fire-arms which he had thrown away upon the Kohistanis. The Badshah asks for delay, and is trying to move some of the Khans to Cabul. The sons of Shahmard Khan are in prison, and attempts are being made to obtain money from them. 10. The sons of lifauroz Khan are said to have been visited by a messenger from the mother of Yakoob Khan (a daughter of Saadat Khan, formerly Khan of Lalpura), telling them of the release of the sons of Mahommed Azam Khan, and that YakcJbb Khan was still in confinement, and advising them never to come to Cabul. 11. Asmatulla Khan, having failed to influence the Bajour Khans, is said to have gone to Swat to Mian Qui, the son of the late Akhoond ; and Mian Gul is said to have collected- the people, and endeavoured to enlist them in the cause of the Ameer, but ineffectually. Mian Gul has now gone to his father-in-law's in Bajour, and is endeavouring to bring about a mutual understandino- between Bajour and Swat, ^ 12. Four hundred fire-arms are said to have been provided by the Ameer for Kohistani volunteers who have been sent towards Koorum, and 2,000 sheep are said to have been sent to the Koorum camp. 13. The Chaudris of the Cabul market are said to have been fined 3 000 rupees for having raised prices. Warm clothing was being collected for 'the Cabul regiments. .1 ^\ l°T "'°'^ Shikarpuri merchants, turned out by the Russians, have passed through Peshawur. ^ (Signed) W. G. WATERFIELD, CQmmissioner of Peshawur, 13 inclosure 3 in No. 10. The Viceroy of India to Viscount Cranbrook. My Lord, Camp, Lahore, November 28, 1878. I HAVE the honour to forward, for the information of Her JMajesty's Govern- ment, copy of Peshawnr Confidential Diary, dated the 15th November, 1878. I have, &c. (Signed) LYTTON. Iiftlosure 4 in No. 10. Extracts from Peshawur Confidential Diary, dated November 15, 1878. THERE is a report that Safdar Ali Khan, Kandaree, is dead. He is the elder brother of Hussein Khan, lately ordered from Herat to Candahar, where he was to have the command in chief; but this report is not confirmed. The Ameer is said to be raising fresh levies within his territory adjoining Cabul. He is said to have called put one man in every sixty, and has demanded a payment of Rs. 180 if default is made. This, together with the previous tax of Rs. 4 per head, gives Rs. 7 per head on the male population. It is said that the troops who had previously received only one month's pay are now to receive four months' pay, or five months in all, this being the eighth month of their year accor- ding to the Arabic calendar in use. No authentic news has been received of the return of the Russian Envoy, nor is it generally believed that the Ameer has received money from Russia, notwithstanding the many reports to that effect. There are very general reports that the Russians have rhoved on Merv, and the idea is that they will proceed thence vi'k Herat to Candahar. This has, no doubt, originated from the Ameer having publicly stated that he would leave it to the Russians to oppoge us at Quettah and Khelat. There have been several reports of laden camels arriving in Cabul supposed to- be bearing presents of money from Russia to the Ameer. Probably these were remittances from -Turkestan, which are' said to have been lately dispatched by the sons of the late Shahghasi Sherdil. Troops are also said to have been summoned from Turkestan. Sirdar Wall Mahommed Khan is said to be detained in Cabul because he is not trusted by the Ameer, and the same is said of Asmatulla Khan, Ghilzai. The latter is said to be avaricious and. not too wise. The Turis of Kurram are stated to have openly said that all the civility they have lately received from Cabul officials was owing to the increased influence of the British Government. Whilst the Kurram tribes look with anxiety for the occupation of the valley by the British Government, the neighbouring independent tribes appear to have no anxieties on that score. No. 11. Sir L, Mallet to Lord Tenter den. — {Received January 11.) My Lord, India Office, January 10, 1879. I AM directed by Viscount Cranbrook to forward herewith, to be laid before Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, copies of letters from the Government of India, dated the 5th December last, with inclosed diaries and news^reports relating to the aflFairs of Afghanistan and adjacent countries* I have, &c. (Signed) LOUIS MALLET, 14 Inclosure 1 in No. 11. The Viceroy of India to Viscount Cranbrook. My Lord, Camp, Lahore, December ■S, 1878. IN continuation of my despatch, dated the 28th November, 1878, I have the honour to forward, for the information of Her Majesty's Government, copy of news-letters received from the Government of the Punjaub. I have, &c. (Signed) LYTTON. Inclosure 2 in No. 11, News-Letter from a Correspondent at Peshawur, dated November 17, 1878. I LEARN the following from a respectable man, who has recently arrived here : — After the Russian Envoy left Cabul the Ameer used to speak in private to the following effect : — " General Ibramoff told me at his departure from Cabul that he was ready to render me any assistance that might be required by me of him, but I made him believe that I did not want any assistance from him, lest I be considered needy by him. I curse him, because he has been the cause of enmity between me and the British." When my informant was in Cabul the Ameer received a letter from the said General from Tashkend, stating that he could not obtain concessions in His Highness' favour from the Gubernator at Tashkend, but that he had started to St. Petersburgh to represent the matter to the Czar there. " The Ameer wrote to Mir Afzal Khan, his father-in-law, to repair to Khelat Ghilzi, and to strengthen the place on the British invading Candahar, as the people of the last-named' district could not be trusted to fight for, or to give assistance to, the Afghan Government. The Ameer promised to assist Mir Afzal Khan with troops, &c., when needed. Inclosure 3 in No. II. Extract from News-Letter from a Correspondent at Jellalabad, dated 16th Zikad, 1295 H. {November 12, 1878). I LEARN the following news from those who have recently arrived here, and from the local officials : — There is a rumour in Cabul since the receipt of letters there from Shahghasi Khushdil Khan, Governor of Turkestan, that the Russian troops have arrived at Karshi en route to Cabul from Samarkand ; that the Shah of Bokhara has received nrders to send supplies of grain, &c., for the troops to Turkestan ; and that the Ameer has issued orders to the Governor of Turkestan to arrange for carriage of supplies, &c., for the troops. On the 1st Zikad, 1295 H. (27th October, 1878), 200 mule loads of boxes were received at Cabul under the escort of Turkestani Sowars. It is rumoured that they contained arms, &c., and were sent to the Ameer by the Russians. Inclosure 4 in No. 11. Extract from News-Letter from the Government Agent at Dera Ismail Khan, dated November 19, 1878. V. ,^^9^^^SP0NDENCE is going on between the Ameer and the Russians, and the latter have >Yritt^n to the Ancer. that their troops would soon arrive on the Uxus, and that the Ameer should wait until these troops arrived at Cabul. Thev have, further, written that in two months' time their troops will reach all the important places, and they will at once fight with the English on all sides, and even 15,.. The Ameer is said to be iannoyed at this, and to have helcJ a Council, and told the Councillora that the Russians would not give him assistance at this time, and that he was afraid lest, when the English occupied Afghanistan, the Russians might come to terms with them. The Ameer has received large sums of money from the Russians. He intends to make a stand at Cabul, but no where else, as he does not trust the mountain tribes. • " iv Inclosure 5 in No. 11. Extract from News-Letter from the Government Agent at Der a Ismail Khan, dated ^ovemler 22, 1878. THE Governor received a letter from his father Ghulara Muhayya-ud-din, in which it was written that the Emperor of Russia sent a certain amount of money, and also a Murasala to the Ameer, in which the Emperor reassured the Ameer about the Afghan frontiers. The Murasala ran thus : — "You promised the Russian Governor that in seven months supplies would be collected 'in Afghanistan for the Russian troops, and then the passage through Afghanistan to India would be given. Now several letters have been received from you asking for help. At this time it is impossible to send troops towards Khurasan (Afghanistan). You must, therefore, avoid war with the English for a time, and let them advance if they like. The Russian troops will reach Cabul in the month of Shamsi (?) " The Ameer is still at a loss what to do, and wants to enter into a truce with the English, and to withdraw his forces from Kurrum, Khyber, and Lalpura. Inclosure 6 in No. 11. Extract from News-Letter from the Government Agent at Der a Ismail Khan, dated November 22, 1878. THERE is a rumour in the Kurrum Darbar that the English sent a concilia- tory message to the Ameer, and that the Ameer, by the advice of the Russians, sent an unsatisfactory reply. He is said to be prepared for the war. He says that after he refused to allow thb English officers to enter Afghanistan, he will fight with the English, and will either obtain victory or fly to the mountains. Since the death of Abdullah Jan the Ameer is said to be not ip his senses. Sometimes he says in the Darbar that he did not refuse to receive the English Mission, but it was Mir Akhor Ahmad Khan and Faiz Mahommed Khai^ who did it ; he .calls the Russians the enemies of Islam, enumerates the atrocities committed by them in Khiva, Kokan, and Tashkend, and says that they will not leave Afghanistan untouched, because the Afghans are not braver than the Turks, and the Russians will massacre the Afghans if the latter refused to turn into Christians. At other times he accuses the English of being selfish and deceitful, and says that he preferred the Russians to them, as the Russians were soldiers. This shows that he is not in his senses. It was the same case with him when Sirdar Mahommed Ali Jan died at Candahar. ■ It is rumoured that Sirdar Mahommed Yakoob Khan has been released by the Ameer. If it turns out to be true, it will be a heavy blow for the Russians, as they are against him, and are afraid lest he join the ^English. Inclosure 7 in No. 1 j . Extract from News-Letter. — Statement of — ' , recorded by the Government Agent . at Pesjiawur, November^ 24, 1878. THE advance of British troops into Afghanistan has created confusion in Cabul. : The Ameer of Cabul collected the learned and principal men of the Mahom- medan religion, and told them that if the people of the country did not care about 16 its falling into the hands of the strangers, he would go to Herat with what he had collected for religious war, and reside there in peace for the rest of his life, making over to the Russians Balkh, Maimeneh, and Badakshan ; but that if they showed their readiness to defend Islam, he would sacrifice even his life and property in its defence. They replied that they were prepared to do anything for the sake of religion, and that they would pray for the success of the Ameer's arms. All the noblemen of the State asked the Ameer to release Sirdar Mahommed Yakoob Khan from confinement, and he promised to shortly comply with their request. The Russians are said to have given cash to the Ameer, and to have declined to supply him with troops in the Anglo-Afghan war. In consideration of the cash received by him, the Ameer agreed to transfer to the Russians Balkh, Badakshan, and Maimeneh, and to retain possession of Herat for himself, fighting with the British for Cabul and Candahar as long as he can. I learnt from trustworthy persons that he was doing away with jewels, gold, and other valuables. He dispatched on camels the tribal levies of Asmatulla Khan to Jellalabad, and also infantry and cavalry regiments with four batteries of artillery, having given them rewards in addition to their salaries. He deputed Sirdar Mahommed Ibrahim Khan, Sirdar Ahmad Ali Khan, and Daud Shah to command the troops at Naugarhar and Dakka. They have arrived at Jellalabad, but the troops seem to be disheartened. 1 learnt at Jellalabad that some Russian officers would go to Jellalabad and Candahar to instruct the Afghans in the best modes of war and defence. No. 12. 8ir L. Mallet to Lord Tenterden.—-(Received Jarmary 1 1 .) My Lord, India Office, January 10, 1879. I AM directed by Viscount Cranbrook to forward herewith, to be laid before Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, copy of a letter from the Government of India, dated the 28th November last, with enclosed news-report from Yarkand. (Signed) ' LOUIS MALLET. Inclosure 1 in No. 12. The Viceroy of India to Viscount Cranhrook. My Lord, Camp, Lahore, November 28, 1878. I HAVE the honour to forward, for the information of Her Majesty's Govern- ment, copy of a communication fro'm the Government of the Punjaub, dated the 12th November, 1878, transmitting a news-letter received from , dated the 7th September, 1878. I have, &c. (Signed) LYTTON. Inclosure 2 in No. 12. News-Letter, dated 9th Ramazan, 1295, A. H. {September 7, 1878). to the Officiating Secretary to Government, Punjaub, I HOPE you have received my two petitions* which I sent lately, one containing the Yarkand news and the other about my own affairs. The Chinese refused to allow the Andijani, Badakhshani, Almoti, and Tibet merchants to enter the town. * None of them appears to have come to the Persian Office. 17 The Russian troops are camped at a place two stages on this (Kashgar) side of Chakmak, and pickets have been posted on every road. Some 16,000 Chinese troops, under their Commander Zuntung, are also encamped in front of the Russian positions. The Chinese Generals have gone from Yarkand. Travellers and merchants who have lately arrived from Kashgar state that collision between the two forces is expected to take place ip a few days. The reason of delay cannot be ascertained. The Grhilja or the Hi district is still in the Russian possession. No Chinese rein- forcements have arrived yet. Gates are built for every lane, and two lamps are kept burning at night while ten persons keep watch. Large stores of grain have been collected by the Chinese, and consequently the prices have risen in the whole^of Turkestan. In collection of grain great oppres- sion was -exercised on the people. They have, destroyed the mosque built by the late Ameer for the purpose of Id prayers, and its bricks are being carried away by them. The Amhan is making inquiries in the Juma Mosque.* Mahommed Yunus Dakka is still with his family at Kashgar. The influential men here who are acquainted with the English ask why the latter are so indifferent now, and do not take care of the frontier. Let us see what would be the result of the Russian and Chinese rivalry for ascendency in this country. The Russians are very anxious to take it. The Thanadar of Kokhar did not allow the eleven persons sent from Baltistan vi^ Khalkan to enter the town. They are now at a place two stages to the other side of Kokhar. Only once passports were given to the Andijani merchants at Kashgar to be allowed to go to Kokan. But now^ the Kokan road is closed, and no one is allowed to go thither. No. 13. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received January 20.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, January 11, 1879. I LEARN indirectly, from an official source, that a telegram was received on the 5th instant, by the Imperial Government from General Kaufmann, stating that he had received a letter from the Ameer Shere Ali, expressing his intention of going to St. Petersburgh for the purpose of explaining his position to the Emperor, and his reasons for not having complied with His Majesty's advice. In reply to this communication General Kaufmann was instructed, by telegraph, to use every means to dissuade the Ameer from going to St. Petersburgh, as his visit was considered by the Imperial Government as inopportune and useless, and to urge him to remain in Turkestan, wherever he might be when the communication reached him. I am told that on no account will the Emperor permit Shere Ali to reside at St. Petersburgh or at Moscow. Should the Ameer persist in his intention of residing in Russia, the town of Kasan had been proposed as a suitable place, sufficiently distant from the capital. It was considered, however, that there were too many Mussulmans in that town to make it a desirable place of refuge for Shere Ali, and Novgorod has been now preferred. But it is probable that Shere Ali will not be permitted , to leave Turkestan, and that he will take up his residence at Tashkend. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. No. 14. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — '{Received January 20.) My Lord^ ^i- Petersburgh, January 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship herewith the following extracts from the Russian press in translation by Mr. Michell : * This is soinevvhat unintelligible in the original. [1271 ^ 18 1. Respecting the flight of the Ameer. 2. The latest news from Chinese Turkestan. 3. A new Russian exploring expedition to Lahssa. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure 1 in No. 14. Opinions of Russian Press on the Flight of the Ameer of Afghanistan to Russian Territory. (Translation.) cc -n 7" Tl/T'^" „ Jr Decemlier 39, 1878 " RuSSkt Mir of jmuary 10, 1879- THE tragico-comical fate of the Ameer, Shere Ali, seems to place us in an awkward position, and the English, with their usual practical sense, are making use of this to the detriment of Russian authority in Central Asia. They declare that the defeat of the Ameer is also our defeat. The facts are, that the nearest cause of the Afghan war was the rapprochement between Afghanistan and Russia, and the con- sequent interchange of civilities, which took place only shortly before England brought about a rupture, probably induced the Ameer to consider himself entitled to count upon the direct or indirect support of Russia. It cannot be denied that General Stolietoff's mission may have inspired the ill-fated Ameer with hopes which we never had in view. The delay in preparing certain political measures in Central Asia, in anticipation of an encounter with England, and which delay was partly owing to the remoteness of the situation and the difficulties of communication, has produced a disastrous effect upon the course of our Central Asian affairs. The Ameer, according to the playful remark of the " Russian Agency," has apparently invested his son witii the government of the country. This son was the Ameer's enemy, and, liberated by the English, he now becomes an obedient tool in English hands. Russia's protection of the Ameer now takes the form of hospitality, more or less obligatory, and Yakoob Beg, as the " ally" of England, is one more added to that extensive collection of semi-independent representatives of British interests in the far East. " Novoe Vremya." The defeat of the Ameer must react on our Central Asian affairs, and, even to some degree, affect our influence in Asia ; but however disagreeable the accomplished fact may be to us, it is necessary to endeavour to draw every possible benefit from the situation. The sincere and friendly reception of Shere Ali, and the promise to give him support in London, was a most wise measure. Of course, we cannot count upon the successful results of diplomatic interference, but we cannot refuse Shere Ali Khan our protection at the present moment. Whether living in Russia or in Bokhara, the Afghan Ameer can always serve us as a menace to England, and, in view of those difficulties with which the English will have to contend in Afghanistan, his presence alone in Central Asia undoubtedly is of essential benefit to us. We can only rejoice that the Russian Embassy has returned with the Ameer. Had Shere Ali not come to Russia, our Embassy could hardly have reached Tashkend in safety. Our Representative served the Ameer as a means of maintaining the people's faith in Russian assistance, and might have fallen a sacrifice to deceived hopes. We know that in Asia there are times when they do not stand on ceremony even with Embassies. " Kuli and Hakim Khan, Hakim Khan was defeated and took refuge in Russian' territojy. Beg Kuli then appointed new Governors in the different eastern cities, rand himself returned to Kashgar. From Kashgar he immediately marched upon' Khutan, where the Governor, Niaz Beg, had shown a disposition to oppose Beg Kuli. As soon as the Chinese heard of Beg Kuli's move upon Khutan they marched westward, rapidly taking Kurla and Kucher. Beg Kuli was successful in taking possession of Khutan, Niaz Beg fled and joined the Chinese. Hearino- of the advance of the Chinese, Beg Kuli despaired of being able to hold his own. He collected all his treasure and sent it off towards Thibet and Kashmir, and himself attempted to follow in the same direction, but the troops that were with him hearing of his flight, pursued and stopped him before he could escape The treasure, however, was not recovered. Beg Kuli then returned to Kashgar In that city there were about 2,000 recent converts to Mahommedanism, who as the Chinese approached the city, took forcible possession of Jangi Shahr and renounced their new religion, returning to Buddhism. Beg Kuli Beg was now a wanderer in the desert. I continued 2dl along with him. At last the Chinese came and took possession of Kashgar. Then I and my companions from Turkey consulted what we should do. My two companions decided to follow Beg Kuli, I was desirous of seeing something of the Chinese, and noting down their peculiarities. I had' been making notes of the English and other nations whom I had seen, and wished to complete them by some notes about the Chinese. Beg Kuli went into Russian territory. I returned to Kashgar, and remained there five months after the Chinese 23 arrived. The whole strength of the Chinese army was 6,000 men. The GoTern- inent of the Chinese was very fair and just. After that the Chinese, who had treated me well, allowed me to depart. They gave me a passport and five men to accompany me. I travelled over the Pamir through Sirikol and Wakhan to Faizabad in Badakhshan. There I dismissed the men from Kashgar. In Faizabad! I met an Envoy from Chittral,'who told me he was going to Cabuj, to consult Ameer Shere Ali about the approacl;i of the English. He said that an English force had approached Chittral, and had seiit a present of money to the Ruler of Chittral, in order to procure a place to occupy in his country. He added, "We are poor, humble people; we cannot take upon ourselves this, so I am going 'to Cabul to consult the Ameer about it." I again saw this man on his way back from Cabul, but he would tell me nothing of tilae answer he had received from the Ameer. I 'Stayed one month in Faizabad, and then went to Cabul, where I remained fifteen days. I had four interviews with the Ameer in Cabul. He asked me about events in Kashgar, &c. He also told me that the Russia,ns had brbught him their replies* that an English Envoy was also coming; that the object of both Hussian and English was to conclude an alliance with hitn, but he had no desire to have an alliance with either of them: "I am," he added, "the vassal of the Sultan of Turkey." The Russian Envoy in Cabul having heard of my arrival sent for me. From him I first heard an account of the late war in Europe between Russia and Turkey, He offered to send me to Constantinople through Russia, and the Ameer said I might go that way if I liked. I said I did not wish to go through Russia ; that if I had cared to go that way I would never have travelled all the way from Kashgar to Cabul. The Ameer then sent liie on by Jellalabad to Peshawur, giving me men to accompany me. He had allowed me 5 rs. perday expenses, and 400 rs. road expenses on departure. From Dakka I came down to Michni on a raft, sending my horses by the Abkhana route. From Kashgar to Faizabad is twenty marches ; by another road the distance is ten marches, but this is Very rpugh, over mountains. Cabul is ten marches from Badakhshan. I intend to proceed to Constantinople by Bombay, Mahommed Yunus, Dadkhwah of Yarkand, adhered to Beg Kuli Beg throughout the revolution. When Beg Kuli sent his treasure to India via Cash- mere, the Dadkhwah took the same opportunity to send away his own valuables. When the Chinese came the Dadkhwah, with 1,000 horsemen of his own, fled to Sarikol. He wished to come to India, but by reason of the cold and snow and the roughness of the road he was unable to do this. He went to Tashkarghan, having broken up his party into small groups of four or five, who travelled separately. The Governor of Tashkarghan, Alif Beg, seized all ^hesfe refugees, and stripped them of their arms, &c. ; Mahommed Yunus, Dadkhwah, also, was not spared. He and his son and two brothers were detained. One Haji Beg, who accompanied the Dadkhwah, was riot imprisoned by Alif .Beg. Alif Beg said he was afraid of the Ameer of Afghanistan, and therefore detained the Dadkhwah. Mulla Ashur, Kash- ghari, was sent by the Chinese, with 100 men, to bring back the Dadkhwah. Alif Beg delivered up the Dadkhwah to Mulla Ashur, who carried him to Kashgar, but Alif Beg solemnly assured the Dadkhwah that his life and that of his relatives should be spared. The Chinese respected this promise of Alif Beg and spared the Dadkhwah's life, referring his case to Pekin for orders. Meanwhile the Dadkhwah was put in charge of Hussan Khan, Bai, merchant, with whom he lived in a sort of open arrest. All money and valuable property belonging to the Dadkhwah were confiscated by the Chinese. The Chinese were so pleased with Alif Beg for capturing Mahommed Yunus that they Conferred the government of all Sarikol and the adjoining countries upon him. No. 16. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received February 3.) My Jjoi'd, St. Petersburgh, January 28, 1879. AFTER some delay the Chinese Representative, Tchouz-Haou, was received by the Empeor on the ^o^h instantj to deliver his credentials. The delay was caused by Tchouz-Haou claiming to rank as Ambassador, while * Sic in orig. 24 his credentials merely give him the character of an Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary. A question as to the exact diplomatic character he bore was addressed to Pekin by telegraph, but the answer received did not expressly state whether he was to be considered as representing the person of the Emperor of China or of his Government. It was accordingly determined to give him the reception usually given to Orientals. He was fetched from his hotel in an Imperial carriage drawn by six horses ; his suite following likewise in an Imperial carriage drawn by four horses, and attended by the customary officers of the Court. After his reception by the Emperor luncheon was served to him and his suite, and he was conveyed back to his hotel with the same state in which he had been conducted to the Palace. I have the honour to inclose the official notification of the reception of Tchoitz- Haou, in which the title of " Representant " and not " Ambassadeur '' is given to him. In reply to my inquiry as to the object of his mission, M. de Giers stated that up to the present Tchouz-Haou had maintained a complete silence, and had not opened on the objects of his mission. Tchouz-Haou, attended by his Secretary and a Chinese interpreter, called on me yesterday by appointment. After the usual compliments, I asked, through the interpreter, what was the principal object of his mission, offering to enlighten him on any question on which it might be in my power to give him information. His Excellency replied that the object of his mission referred to a Commercial Treaty and to frontier questions. I discovered, after some reticence on the part of Tchouz-Haou, that the question of frontiers referred to the Province of Hi, and to the restoration by Russia of Kuldja to Chinese rule. He stated that Russia had formally engaged to restore Kuldja whenever a sufficient Chinese force should appear capable of maintaining order and peace. He said that these conditions were now fulfilled, and that the Chinese forces in Djunzaria amounted to 50,000 men ; and were in complete possession of the country. I observed to his Excellency that the advance of the Chinese army had been marked by great slaughter and excessive cruelties, especially, at Manas and Serumbri, which had made a bad impression in Europe, and it was to be hoped that such atrocities would not again occur. I inquired whether he had received any late intelligence from Djungaria. He replied that he had learnt nothing from those parts since he left China. I then mentioned to him a report here of Hakim Bey having entered Djungaria from the side of Khokand at the head of 1,000 men. He replied that he was not aware of the fact, but that the Chinese army was sufficiently strong to repel any attack of that nature. ' I then inquired whether his mission referred to the delivery of the refugees from Kashgar, who had taken refugee in Russian territory. He replied cautiously that this was only a question of secondary importance. I stated to him that in Europe no refugees on political grounds were given up, and that in the present instance it was not probable that the Russian Government would depart from this humane principle. He expressed a wish that, China being a limitrophe State, should entertain good relations with Russia, and referred vaguely to differences on the frontier of Mantchouria which required to be arranged. Tchouz-Haou has taken a furnished house, and his mission here is likely to be of some duration. ' He is accompanied by a German Russian, who has been for some time in China, but on his visit to me he was attended by his Chinese interpreter. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFT US. 25 Indosure in No. 16. Extroxt from the "Journal de St. Pe'tersbourg" of January l^, 1879. 8t. Pe'tersbourg, le 9 Janvier, 1879. NoirvEiiLES DB LA OoTJR. — Lundi 8 Janvier, son Excellence Tchong-Haou, Repr^sentant de Sa Majesty I'Empereur de Chine, a eu 1 'honneur d'etre re9u en audience solennelle par Sa, Majesty I'Empereur. A I'issue de I'audience, Schau-you-Lien, Premier Secretaire, et Tzian-sy-Toun, Troisi^me Secretaire, ont eu ^galement I'honneur d'etre present^s a Sa Majesty. * No. 17. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 3.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, January 29, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship herewith an article from the "Russian Press," in translation by Mr. Michell, dated Vernoe, H^i December, giving an account of the state of affairs in Kashgar and on the Russo-Chinese frontiers. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 1 7. Newspaper Extract. /(Translation.) News prom the Rttsso-Ohinesb Frontiee. — The correspondent of the Turke- stan " Vedomisti " at Vernoe writes under date of the "^t December, 1878, as follows : — ■ " The intelligence received at Naryn in October last confirms the opinion that the raids and acts of violence committed in the frontier zone were participated in not only by the Dungans, who had arrived in the Kuldja region from Tokmak and Karakol, and who transferred their predatory activity to the Tchuguchak-Shiho" road, but also by the Tokmak and Issyk-kul Dungans, who commenced their opera- tions in the former Kashgarian possessions. "The Naryn military commander, reporting the arrival at the port of Naryn of several parties of Dungans, numbering in all sixty-eight men, states that two months ago the whole party started from Karakunua, the place assigned in the district of Tokmak for a Dungan settlement, to Karakol; some with the permission of the authorities, and others of their own accord, under the leadership of a Dungan called Suu-lu. "After remaining two days at Karakol they proceeded along the Uch-Turpan road to Kashgar, with the object of removing their Dungan relatives, whom the Chinese Government contemplated settling in one of the western Chinese provinces. Proceeding in the direction of Kashgar they reached the high road leading from Kg.shgar to Aksu, where they encountered 200 Chinese soldiers, with whom a skirmish took place, resulting in the flight of the Dungans to the mountains, where they remained seven days, and then reached the valley of the River Aksai, from whence by the Pass of Tash-rabat they arrived at Naryn. "The Chinese were not so fortunate in dealing with the Issyk-kul Dungans, who advanced in a body of 1,000 men on the settlement of Kopti-Aimsk, and seized about twenty camef loads of wheat. In order to recover this grain Lu-sho-daryn dispatched Mahmut Khan, a Kashgarian Sart, and Ishankul, a Khirghiz Bey, with seventy Djigits, who overtook the Dungans in the Kara-Tek^ Mountains and opened fire on them. 'In this skirmish the Dungans killed Mahmut Khan's brother, the Khirghiz Ishankul, and several Djigits, which caused Mahmut Khan to return to Kashgar. • "Lu-sho-daryn, who was at Jangishar, then dispatched Chinese troops in pursuit of the Dungans, who were forced to take to the mountains, with a loss, however, of several soldiers on the Chinese side. "While the Chinese succeed in dealing, in a manner, with the bands of Dungan ri27] E 26 marauders, who have been pillaging the former Kashgarian possessions, they appear unable to cope with the Dungans, who signalize themselves by feats of robbery along the high road of Kur-Kara-Usun, These marauders inspire the Chinese with such terror that the Hebei-Amban-Shi of Tarbagutai, for instance, who started from Tchuguchak with an armed force of 500 men and came upon a band of Dungans — in all about sixty men — at the picquet of Lou.bulak ; instead of giving pursuit took to flight, and then reported to Tsin-Tsan-Tsun that, notwith- standing a most indefatigable search, he, Shi-Amban, not only failed to discover the Dungans, but could not even ascertain where they were located. ****** " The Chinese Administration has strictly enjoined the native authorities to exercise a vigilant supervision over all Dungans returning from raids, as also over those considered to be unreliable, until final instructions are receired as to their ultimate disposal. But as the native officials will not insure tranquillity until such unreliable individuals are removed from their midst, the Chinese Administration has called for a list of the latter, including all Dungans who visit Kashgar with the object of pillage, in order, on the receipt of this document, to negotiate with the Eussian Governor-General for the removal of such persons from the Chinese frontier to the interior of the Russian possessions, so as to deprive them of the possibility of penetrating into Chinese territory, in order to carry on, in various ways, an ever- lasting conflict with the inhabitants of the Daitzin Empire. " In this manner the weakness of the Chinese frontier administration is the cause of no little trouble to our authorities in establishing order and quiet on the frontier, which is continually disturbed by the Government of the Celestial Empire. " The position of affairs in Kashgar has not undergone any particular change. Lu-sho-daryn continues to reside in the fortress of Jangishar, where at the present time there are about 2,000 Chinese troops, and in the town of Kashgar not more than 500 men. There is also intelligence to the effect that Lu-sho-daryn is dead. " This rumour is confirmed by the fact that disturbances have broken out in Kashgar, the result of which, however, is as yet unknown, and also by the circumstance that a Chinese official, who had been appointed to succeed Lu-sho-daryn, had, on his arrival at Kashgar, and after assuming the Governorship of that place, removed his quarters from the town of Kashgar to the fortress of Jangishar — the residence of Lu-shoTdaryn. " The journey of General Abramoff" to Irket-tam, and the wild reports spread by the Dungans in Djitishar of the movements of Russian troops from Tchakmak to Kashgar, have been the cause of the following orders, which were at once put into execution : Barricades of carts and trunks were placed at the end of all the streets leading into the town of Kashgar, and all the gates of the town were securely locked at night. An Andijon caravan in readiness to proceed to the Ferghana region was, owing to the same circumstance, detained. At the same time a Russian caravan which had passed through Naryn two months ago, and had already reached Tchakmak, was not permitted to enter Kashgar, an exception being made for gooda belonging to Kashgarian merchants. "In conclusion, it is necessary to mention that at Tchuguchak in the early part of October there commenced to arrive small parties of Chinese soldiers (tchampan or convicts), mounted and on foot, and which at the present time number abou 1,200 men; a similar number is still expected to arrive." No. 18. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 3.) ^y m°p1f • 1 J u . . • . 1 . . ^'' P't^^^iurgh, January 29, 1879. iHJi, mclosed abstract m translation from the Russian press by Mr Michell states the intention of the Imperial Geographical Society to assign 20,Oo6 roubles for the equipment of a scientific expedition to Thibet under the direction of Colonel Jrr|evalsky. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. 27 Inelpsure in No. IS. Newspaper Extract. (Translation.) Pboposed Russian Expedition to Thibet. — The " Russki Mir," of the Jfth January, 1879, states that the Russian Imperial Geographical Society has assigned 20,000 roubles for the equipment of an expedition to Thibet, under the superintendence of Colonel Prjevalsky. No. 19. Lord A. Loftus to the Mkrquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 3.) My Lord, 8t. Petersburgh, January 29, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship, in translation, an article from the "Novoe Vremia" (a newspaper formerly under the influence of General IgnatiefF), urging the necessity for Russia to occupy immediately Merv as an advanced post from whence Russia could easily effect demonstrations against Western Afghanistan and menace India, and as the future means of a complete subjugation of the Turkomans. (Signed) ' AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 19. Extract from the " Novoe Vremia." (Translation.) THE " Novoe Vremia *' of the IsJa January, 1879, contains the following article urging the necessity of a Russian occupation of Merv : — "Of the importance of the occupation of Merv there can be no doubt; every one acquainted with our position in Turkestan fully recognizes it. The English, alarmed at one time by the movements of our troops in the vicinity of the Afghan frontier, now show less apprehension, and direct their attention principally towards Merv, fearing more than anything else that we shall occupy that point. The impossibility of preventing us from effecting that occupation would seem to give rise to these apprehensions. " As a matter of course the advance of the Russians on Merv will give rise to endless dissatisfaction, and to demands for explanation of a menacing character on the' part of the English Cabinet. But it is impossible to act so as to satisfy every- body, especially the English, who are never satisfied with anything. We ought, moreover, to have accustomed ourselves to this, if we remember that the same thing occurred in the Khivan and Khokan expeditions, which did not, however, prevent us from occupying that region and subjugating to Russian rule 3,000,000 of people and a rich country. While fully recognizing that the Ferghana region is a valuable acquisition owing to its natural wealth and dense population, we, never- theless, maintain that the occupation of Merv is important for strategical reasons. "In the first place,. Merv will serve as an advanced post, from whence we may easily effect demonstrations against Western Afghanistan and menace India ; a similar position in regard to the surrounding tribes and nationalities is held at the present time by the T^k6s who hold Merv; secondly, a decisive and successful advance on Merv will serve as an important step towards the complete pacification of the Turkomans, which would be equivalent to securing our prestige in Central Asia. In the event of any serious danger, it is extremely important to be assured of the tranquillity of an extensive region densely populated by Mussulman. « * * * ' * * *' Thanks to their mode of life, the richness of the country, the robberies they commit, and the traffic conducted by them in human creatures, the Tek6s are exceed- ingly wealthy, especially at Merv. According to the statement of a Persian, who was kept a prisoner by the T6k6sj it is not unusual to find among the latter men who possess as much as six camel loads of gold and other valuables. " In the opinion of competent authorities, Merv can easily pay a contribution of [127] E 2 28 2,000,000 of roubles and several thousand horses^ which from their excellent qualities would be a valuable acquisition to any stud. "At the present time the most powerful and influential tribe among the Turkomans are the Tek^s of Merv. Up to 1873 the Tomuds competed with them for supremacy, but the latter lost their power irretrievably owing to the blow which was dealt them by the Russian soldiers in the Khivan khanate. " After their defeat at Chandyr they fled in great disorder to the steppe south of Zmuhkshir, leaving in their flight their property, wives, and household goodsj and here in August month they were finally routed by the Kara-Turkomans. " In this manner our troops have, on more than one occasion, come into collision with the Turkomans. "One would think that their mode of life would make them good soldiers. In practice, however, this was found not to be the case : whenever our infantry made its appearance they very sensibly kept out of gun range, and retreated, filling the air with their hideous cries of " Allah man," &c. They never displayed that degree of firmness and martial valour which frequently distinguished the Caucasian moun- taineers. True, there liave been instances of bravery among them, the defence of Khiva and Chandyr for example, but such cases are very, very rare." No. 20. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 3.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, January 29, 1879. T HAVE the honour to inclose an article in translation from the " Novoe Vremia," announcing the return to St. Petersburgh of a Colonel GrodikofF, of the Russian general staff, who has accomplished a journey without resorting to any disguise, and being escorted by one Khirghiz and two Persians, from the North- western Provinces of Afghanistan to Herat, through places constantly exposed to raids from the Teke Turkomans, and through the whole of Northern Persia. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 20. Extract from the "Novoe Vremia" of January 19, 1879. (Translation.) Return of Colonel Grodikoff from a Political Mission to the North-Western parts of Afghanistan and Persia. THE "Novoe Vremia" of the i^gth January, 1879, notifies the return to St. Petersburgh from Afghanistan in the following paragraph : — "From the time that the first Russian soldier stepped on Turkestan soil, that region has been the scene of many daring exploits and expeditions, many of which, however, remain unknown to Russian society. " A few days ago there arrived at St. Petersburgh Colonel GrodikofF, of the general staff", who has just performed a journey, the extraordinary hazards and difficulties attending which far exceed anything that has hitherto been done in that way. " It will suffice to say that Colonel GrodikofF, without even resorting to any disguise, accompanied by a Khirghiz and two Persians, one of whom, Teimur- Mustapha-Ragmetulin, acted as interpreter, traversed all the North-Western Pro- vinces of Afghanistan to Herat, through places constantly exposed to raids from the T6kes, and over the whole of Northern Persia. " On the 24th September last this intrepid officer left Tashkend, and on the 3rd December reached Asterabad, having traversed a distance of nearly 2,000 versts." • 29 No. 21. Lord A. Loftus to i;he Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 3.) (Extract): ' St. Petersburgh, January 29, 1819. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship herewith an article in trans- lation from the "St. Petersburgh Vedomisti," on the Report of M. Petrovski, who was instructed by the .Russian Government to examine and report on the state of the Asiatic trade of Russia. This Report, issuing from a Russian source, is in favour of maintaining and securing the transit trade with Persia through the Caucasus. Inclosure in No. 21. Extract from the "St. Petersburgh Vedomisti" of January §i, 1879. Transit Trade through Caucasus and Asia Minor to Persia. (Translation.) THE "St. Petersburgh Vedomisti" of the ^1^ January, 1879, publishes the following opinions on this subject expressed by M. Petrovski, who was instructed by the Russian Government to examine and report on the Asiatic trade- of Russia : — We are informed that M. Petrovski, who was instructed by the Ministry of Finances to report on our trade in Asia Minor, has, in his communication to the Minister of Finances, expressed himself in favour of the necessity of maintaining and securi'ng our Trans-Caucasian transit trade. The opinion held by M. Petrovski on. this subject is based on the following considerations : — 1 . The two transit routes to Persia, the Poti-Tiflis-Tabreez and the Trebizond- Erzeroum-Tabrez, from the advantages and disadvantages they present, the time occupied in the transit of goods, the cost of transport, &c., are almost similar ; con- sequently the closing of one of these, the Russian route, will, in the natural course of things, attract all the transit trade to the other route. 2. The inevitable consequence of this will, in M. Petrovski's opinion, result in the increased commercial importance of the town of Trebizond, which, at the present time, in view of England's protectorate over Asia Minor and the views entertained by Englishmen in regard to that region, is highly unprofitable for us. If, by the closing, in the year 1831, of the Trans-Caucasian transit we created the town o» Trebizond and the transit from thence vi^ Erzeroum to Persia, it is desirable that such a mistake, more dangerous at the present time from its ulterior consequences, should not be repeated. 3. As regards the opinions prevalent in Russia of the injury this transit exer- cises on our trade with Persia,. M. Petrovski assures us that little foundation exists for them. The competition which Russian goods meet with in the Trans-Caucasus and in Asia Minor does not proceed so much from foreign as from local manufac- tures, principally Persian, These manufactures in enormous quantities fill all the Trans-Caucasus, the newly acquired provinces, and even the Kuban and Terek region and the Province of Stavropol. Owing to their comparative cheapness and excellent quality, the native cotton stuffs, under various names, are preferred to both Russian and foreign goods. Consequently, the " struggle for markets " in Persia does not possess that importance which is attributed to it. While the native raw material is worked up by the natives themselves, the competition of foreign goods with-the produce of our manufactures cannot be considered as dangerous. The question can only assume a grave aspect when the Persian raw material is exported from the local markets, and the manufacture of native cotton stuffs shall cease. Who shall take the raw produce and replace it by goods of their own manufacture ? that is the question. 30 No. 22. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 3.) My Lord ^^' Petersburgh, January 29, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose the translation, by Mr. Michell, of a letter received by General Llamakin,and published by the " Telegraph" newspaper, from the engineer whom he had dispatched to explore the overflow of the Oxus into the Usboi. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 22. Newspaper Extract. OvERFi-ow 01" THE OxTJS. — ^According to the " Telegraph " newspaper of the ifth January, 1879, General Llamakin has received the following letter from Mr. Gelman, an engineer who was dispatched to explore the overflow of the Oxus into the Usboi : — "After a fatiguing and difficult journey the expedition reached the lake on the ^fth December, and on the following day proceeded to explore the most interesting parts of the Usboi, namely, the site of the former wells of Sara-Kamysli and • the Dektcha locality. At the latter place the stream forms several waterfalls; the banks on both sides rising perpendicularly to the height of 30 fathoms. This irregu- larity of the bed extends for a distance of 100 to 150 fathoms, and the current then again pursues an even course to the site of the former wells of Sara-Kamysli. In the vicinity of these wells there is another small waterfall. The water in the upper lake (north-eastern), notwithstanding that it has received a considerable addition of fresh water from the Oxus, is yet somewhat brackish to the tfiste. In regard to the south-western lake, the water remains almost as brackish as before. Although the water in the lakes has risen considerably, it must rise still more in order to enter the Usboi. There is no current of water proceeding beyond the Sara-Kamysli lakes in the direction of the Caspian. At the present time the Khan has sent four Usbeks to explore the Sara-Kamysli lakes. It is reported that the principal breach in the Laudon Canal has now been effectually repaired. No. 23. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received February 3.) My Lord, ;S^ Petersburgh, January 29, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose in translation, by Mr. Michell, an article from the "Exchange Gazette" of the ||th instant, stating that, notwithstanding the endeavours made to dissuade Shere Ali from coming to St. Petersburgh, he firmly adheres to his determination, and that his arrival here may be expected about the middle of next month. Notwithstanding this statement, I am convinced that means will be found to prevent Shere Ali from leaving Turkestan. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. 31 Inclosure in No. 23. Extract from the " Gazette of the Exchange" of January \^, 1879. (Translation.) Expected Aekival ob Shbre Ali at St. Petersbubgh. — The " Ej^change Gazette "of the If th January, 1879, states that, notwithstanding*aU the informal attempts made to dissuade the Ameer of Afghanistan, on his arrival on Russian territory, to abandon his intention of proceeding to St. Petersburgh, he still firmly adhered to bis determination. His arrival at the capital, it is expected, will take place about the middle of next month. On reaching the Russian frontier the Ameer's suite were disarmed, Shere Ali, Jiowever, being allowed to retain his personal arms. No. 24. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 6, 1879.) (Extract.) Tehran, December 10, 1878. -^' I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that a Russian officer, whose name resembles KerdinhofF, reached Meshed on the 27th ultimo, having come from Tashkend visi Balkh and Herat. Two hundred Afghan horse escorted him through the Herat territory. He only remained three days at Herat, but was twelve days at Balkh. On his arrival at Meshed he telegraphed to the Russian General at Tashkend, informing him that he had been received at Herat in a most satisfactory and cordial manner. He appeared to be going on immediately to Russia, by way of the Caspian Sea.1 No. 25. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— (Received February 6, 1879.) * (Extract.) _ Tehran, December ] 6, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that I have seen a native of Kara- Tuppeh, the Afghan Settlement on the Bay of Asterabad. I made inquiry of him on the subject of the recent Eussian expedition against the Akhals. He stated that the troops of which it was composed were at the outset very inferior to those which took part in the former expedition against the Turkomans, and that on their return to Chekishler after what, as he asserted, was on all hands allowed to have been their defeat, they were in a pitiable condition. They had lost a number of men, were encumbered with sick, and were half starved. On my inquiry to what he attributed their condition, he answered, " Badness of water and want of provisions." Remembering the rumour that the Russians had received large supplies from, the Yemoot Turkomans, I suggested that provisions might have been procured from that tribe, to which he replied, that that was impossible, as the Yemootsi. were themselves suffering from scarcity in common with the T6kes, owing to the failure of last year's crops, and were obliged to procure supplies for their own consumption from Mazanderan. He went on to say that the Cossack horses that returned to Chekishler were in such a state that they were being sold for a few shillings a-piece. He added, that this defeat had much lowered the Russians in the estimation of the T6k6s, and of the Turkomans generally, and described the feeling of all the tribes on both sides of the Attrek to be one of latent hostility to- Russia. 32 No. 26. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received February 6, 1879.) Mv Lord, Tehran, December 17, 1878. "' THE Russian officer of whose movements I had the honour to inform your Lordship in my despatch of the 10th instant started from Meshed on the 30th November. While there it is said he stated that he had left St. Petersburgh on a special mission at the end of last September, and that he was going back there at once; that when at Balkh he had come across the Envoy dispatched by the Government of His Majesty the Czar, on his return from Afghanistan, and that from him he had heard that Ameer Shere Ali Khan had stated that should he find himself unable to withstand the advance of the British army, as might possibly be the case, he had the intention of retiring to the hill country. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 27. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received February 6, 1879.) My Lord, Tehran, December 31, 1878. , I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copies of reports which I have received from Meshed. I have, &.C. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 27. (Translation.) December 7, 1878. EIGHT days ago the Russian officer left for Asterabad ; he sent back a Cossack, native of Khokandor Tashkend, who had been travelling with him to Meshed, giving him a passport to the effect that the bearer was his servant and returning home, and that therefore no one was to prevent or molest him. ' The officer said that the Afghan troops were not. disciplined, but merely an imitation ; that he met the Russian Envoy at Balkh returning from Cabul, and he said that Ameer Shere Ali Khan had told him, that whenever the English troops marched against him, as he is unable to resist them he would take to th» mountains ; he (the officer) had further added that he had left St. Petersburgh two months previouslj', and that he was now returning there direct ; that for 300 farsakhs of the road between Orenburgh to Tashkend there is no railway, but there is a cart road by which the post arrives in eight days at Tashkend, and that the railway will be finished in another year. Inclosure 2 in ]So. 27. (Translation.) > December 14, 1878. . I HEAR from Herat that a Russian Mission, consisting of four Russian officers, had arrived at Cabul via Turkestan. They had an escort of thirty horsemen (Cossacks), and on their interview with the Ameer, they asked him to renounce all friendship with the British Government and enter on friendly relations with them, in which case he would be supplied with arms and anything else he might require. The Ameer accepted these terms. He was then told that he was first to send away the British Envoy, as he knew best, for he could not be tolerated there ; the Ameer, complying with their request, held a Grand Council of all his chief men and officers, at which the Russian Envoy assisted ; the English Envoy was also summoned. The Ameer found fault with the latter, saying, " Your (pretended) friendship is the very acme of enmity ; for instance, it was by your recommendation that I seized and imprisoned Mahommed Yakoub Khan ; by your orders I increased the armies of Afghanistan, and now they remain unpaid, • 33 for the revenues of Afghanistaa do not cover the expense of keeping up so many regiments ; you took possession of Beloochistan, which belonged to Afghanistan, without my leave or permission. Respecting the question of Seistan, you intended setting me against the Shah of Persia ; you promised to make an annual allowance for the pay of the troops, virhich you have not paid ; therefore, this friendship of yours is only an enmity, and in future we will have no friendly relations whatever with you." The Russian Envoy had concurred in all the statements made by the Ameer, and told him that now he was a friend to Russia, and that he was to dispatch an a.gent to Bokhara or Samarcand, where whatever was required of the Russian Government would be made over to him (the Ameer's agent) then and there. After this promise, Mirza Mahommed Hassan, the Debeer-ul-Mulk to the Ameer (Chief Secretary of State) was dispatched to proceed with one of the four Russian officers to Samarcand, and there make kn0%vn the Ameer's requirements. It is now two months since they have started for Turkestan, and it is rumoured that 10 lakhs of rupees, and 10,000 muskets have been made over to Mirza Mahommed Hassan. Two of the Russian officers are still at the Ameer's Court, whence they make daily reports, to their own Government. The fourth officer is the one who came from Cabul to.. Meimaneh and thence came to Herat, whose journey had been notified by the Ameer to the Herat authorities, instructing them to pay him every attention. He arrived at Herat on the 16th November, was received with much ceremony and quarters were prepared for him in the Chehar-Bagh, the Governor's own residence. He only remained here three days, and then asked for an escort to convey him to the Persian frontier, en route for Meshed. This was granted, and took him as far as Kareez. I presume he was an officer of high standing in Russia, but here he did not give out his rank or who he was at all ; he did not discuss any political topics with the Governor; it appears that he merely came to visit the place. On reaching Meshed he intends proceeding to Russia vik Gez. The Moostawfee-ul-Mamalek (Minister of the Interior) at Cabul is Agha Seyd Ahmed, and the Commander-in-chief is the grandson of the Ameer, i.e., the son of Sirdar Mahommed Ali Khan. General Daoud Shah Khan, the former Commander-^ in-chief, is in disgrace. Several days ago 1 learnt that the Ameer had sent troops , in the direction of Khyber, but the tribes residing there, not allowing them to pro- ceed, a fight took place in which a number were killed and wounded on both sides, and finally the Ameer's troops returned back. There is a rumour that the English troops have advanced upon the Khyber (Pass) and taken a fort ; if this be the case, it is as if they have couquered the whole of Afghanistan. The tribes who are there are a fighting race, and have about, 50,000 fighting men, who during the last 300 years have never acknowledged any ruler. If they are friendly to the English, then everything is over ; it is as if the English were in the heart of the country. The fort of Quetta has also been strongly fortified by the English ; they have 30,000 men there, with a full complement of artillery and ammunition. Large quantities of provisions have also been stored. It is evident that they intend doing something (on this side) during the winter season, while the road to Cabul is. blocked up. Inclosur^ 8 in No. 27. (Extract.) December 22, 1878. NO fresh news has been received from Afghanistan, but several days ago a merchant came in from Peshang, which is near Quetta; he reports that the Herat troops had not yet left for Candahar, that no troops had up till now been collected at the latter place, but (latterly) intelligence having been received at Candahar that twenty-four regiments of English troops had arrived at Quetta, orders were given for the formation of a camp at the former city. Intermittent fever existed to a great extent there, of which many of the inhabitants had died. The people were much disgusted with Ameer Shere Ali Khan, and were in dread of the advance of the English. It was said at Candahar and other places that the Russian Government had promised to give money and war material to the Ameer. A merchant who can be depended upon informed me that he had received a [127] F 3* letter from Bokhara telling him that the Russians had exacted 100,000 tillas from the Ameer of Bokhara in order to pay Ameer Shere Ali Khan Two persons lately arrived from Merv ; they informed me that there was nothing fresh going on there excepting that the Merv Turkom?ins, having recently plundered a caravan from Khiva, the Merv caravan has been detained at Khiva; and it is also said that the Merv merchants at Khiva have also been arrested. Two days ago ten Turkomans of the Saryk tribe arrived here, bringing cattle, &c., for sale. They brought a petition from their Elders to the Prince Governor, tendering their allegiance. . j -^l . • Two days ago Suleiman Khan, Ameer-i-Toraan, arrived with two regiments, four guns, and 1,500 Shahsevan horse, with all necessary military requirements.* He encamped outside the city, and it appears from his statements made on several occasions, that he had been ordered to encamp outside and not give any trouble to the (authorities) of Khorassan, and that he and his force had received their pay and ration allowance in advance up to near the end of January. Very soon alter his arrival Abdullah Khan, the son of the Itimad-es-Saltaneh, arrived with 400 soldiers and two guns, having been relieved from Serrekhs. • , ^ u mu The son of the Sahara-ud-dowleh has been recently summoned to lehran. Ihe Government of Boojnoord being in an unsatisfactory state, he may have been sura- moned for appointment to that place. No. 28. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury . — (Received February 6, 1879.) My Lord, Tehran,. December 31, 1878. I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copy of a letter which 1 have received from Asterabad. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 28. (Translation.) December 24^ ]878. THE. w«ather is very fine, and but little grain has been sown. The Turrkomaa frontier was quiet for some time, but now the Turkomans have again begun their plundering habits. On the 19th, 6,000 Tomans reached here from Tehran for the pay of the ^ troops. On the 22nd the Daz and Darajee Turkomans attacked the Prince's camp and killed three soldiers ; they lost two men themselves. The Kara Sallkh Turkomans, who have been rebellious for some time, attacked the Prince's camp on the 23rd ; they killed four men who were cutting grass, and carried off eight others, with eleven horses and ponies, On the 17th a Rusw'.an officer arrived here from Meshed vi^ Shahrood. He remained two days at the Consul's house and then left for Ashuradeh byGez. This officer has been to Herat. The Russian troops are still stationed at the three points already reported ; their General, who had gone to Bakou, has not yet returned. The Russian Com- modore is at Ashuradeh, and the Consul is in town. * This is the number on paper, but when the troops left Tehran they had already dwindled down coa- f,id-'rabry,.and at Shahrood, on the road, the number of horse was reported to be only about 500. 35 ' ■" .'■ ^> No. 29. Lord A. Lo/tus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 10.) My Lord, * St. Petersburgh, February 5, 1819. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that, according to the " St. ]?eters- burgh Herald," the Imperial Ministry have decided to grant a* concession for the construction of a railway from Tiflis to Baliu on the Caspian, a distance of 520 versts, and from a station of the Poti-Tiflis Railway to Batoum for a distance of 185 versts. The contemplated line to Batoum will not be constructed along the coast of the Black Sea as was originally intended, but will run inland. I have &c, (Signed) ' AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. iii i I ^m, "f >l."|' , 'I "w 1 ,1 I ' I ' - I ' I ' ll '11 1 II No. 30. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury, — (Received February 14.) (Telegraphic.) Tehran, February 14, 1879. I HAVE received a copy of a Firman addressed by Shere Ali to the Herat authorities, the authenticity of which there seems no reason to doubt. In it he exhorts them to maintain their allegiance, and to defend Herat firmly, and stjates that at a Council, at which both his own Ministers and the Russian Represen- tatives took part, it had been decided that he should proceed to St. Petersburgh for the purpose of appealing to Europe against England. He adds that he had since received a letter from General Stoletoff, dated from Livadia, saying that the Emperor considers him as a brother, that it was the Emperor's wish that he should not admit the English to his country, that he should keep them in play during the winter as he had already done, and that in the spring the Emperor would come forward to hie assistance. A translation of this document .sJhall be sent by the- next messenger to England. No. 31. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. —-{Received February 17.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, February 10, 1879. I HAVE the hoaour to state to your Lordship that a telegram published to-day from Tashkend, dated the 8th instant, announces that Shere Ali was ill at Mazari Sherif, near Balkh (consequently in Afghan territory), and had abandoned his intention of proceeding to St. Petersburgh. It appears, however, that it was his intentidn to send some high official of his Court to St. Petersburgh. The telegram further states that Yakoub Khan had reported to the Ameer that continual attacks were being made by the mountaineers on British transport train. The Russian General, Rasgonoff, who had been left as Chief of the Russian Mission to Cabul on the departure of General Stoletoff, has crossed the Oxus, leaving his doctor with Shere Ali, who, it appears, is sotnewhat seriously indisposed. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. .No. 32. . , Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 17.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, February 11, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship, in translation by Mr. Michell, an article from the Russian press on the question of rendering possible the naviga- tion of the old beid of the Oxus flowing into the Caspian Sea, with a view to con- [127J F 2" 3fi necting the Caspian Sea with that river, and thus opening a water communication with it and the Aral Sea, as also with the Oxus. \ , ^. . This question is one of great importance to the Russian Government, both m a commercial as also in a military strategical point of view, and is seriously occupying the attention of the Imperial Government. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS Inclosure in No. 32, Extract from the "St. Petersbourg Vedomisti" o/iS^y% 1879. (Translation.) THE " St. Petersbourg Yedomisti " of the TiSZl 1879, in discussing the ques- tion of rendering navigable the old bed of the Oxus, and thus connecting the Oxus with the Caspian, says : — "Opinions of course differ as to the possibility of connecting the Oxus and the Caspian. The Caucasian authorities are of opinion that it may be realized, while the administrators of Tashkend and Orenburg take an opposite view. It could not, of course, be otherwise. " In the event of the establishment of a new route, the Asiatic trade would no longer be conducted through Tashkend and Orenburg* which towns would conse- quently fall into decay." The " St. Petersbourg Vedomisti " further states that a Special Commission will be formed under the Presidency of the Lieutenant of the Caucasus, for the solution of the question of a water route to the Caspian from the Oxus. At the present time the subject is being discussed at private sittings held at General Possiette's, the Minister of Public "Works, who takes a lively interest in the matter. The first sitting was held on Saturday, the KS^ No. 33. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 17.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, February 11, 1879, I HAVE the honour to inclose, in translation by Mr. Michell, an article from the " Exchange Gazette" of the 10th instant, stating, on the authority of intelligence received from Semipalatinsk, that a body of Russian Cossacks had been defeated by the Kirghizes of the Altai district who were attempting to pass into Chinese territory. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 33. Extract from the "Exchange Gazette" o/iXSSyfo, 1879. •(Translation.) Serious Defeat of Etjssian Cossacks by Khieghiz in Altai Disteict.— The newspaper " Siberia " has received the following intelligence from Semipala- liinsk : — / "The 1st sotnia of the 3rd Siberian Cossack regiment, which was dispatched for the purpose of preventing the Khirghiz of the Altai district from migrating into Chinese territory, having crossed the River Black Irtysh, detached half a sotnia -under the command of Captain Viatkin for the purpose of reconnoitring. Captain Viatkin, having received his instructions, started off, and at a distance of about 10 versts from the encampment came upon a stud of horses belonging to the Khirohiz, who were intending to migrate across the border. In accordance with instructions this stud of horses was captured by the Cossacks and driven off in the direction of the encampment— the consequence of which was resistance on the part of the Khirghiz, who, profiting by the dark night and a dense fog, attacked the Cossacks. ' 37 "The first and second attacks were repulsed. The third attack was made from all sides; the Khirghiz mustered about 1,500 armed men An engagement took place Perceiving the fruitlessness of further resistance, being surrounded by ten times their number, and, having lost half their men, the remaining twenty Cossacks were commanded by Captain Viatkin to force their way through the enemy. The Russians lost 1 non-commissioned officer, 1 trumpeter, and 24 Cossacks. About 13 Cossacks were wounded. Captain Viatkin returned to the encampment with 14 men; the 11 Cossacks who had succeeded in cutting their way through their assailants and then tried to regain their comrades lost their way, and were compelled eventually to abandon their clothes and swim over the Black frtysh, arriving at the encampment in a state of nudity. Jn view of the disaster the main body of Cossacks had been withdrawn across the Irtysh. This was on the ^^^ October. "Shortly after the receipt of the iiitelligence of this melancholy event a strong force was dispatched from the post of Zaisau, which was reinforced by a detachment of 2 sotnias from the Ust-Kamenogorsk district ; in this manner a force of the following strength was collected : 4 sotnias of Cossacks, 1 company of rifles, 1 rocket platoon, and a detachment of mountain artillery. Unfortunately, how- ever, this force returned a few days ago without having overtaken the Khirghiz. The Khirghiz treated our killed in a barbarous manner; several of the dead had their ears and noses cut off; the faces of others were so disfigured that their com- rades failed to recognize them. A Cossack, called Kolomenkoff", was more horribly mutilated than any of the rest; besides being scalped, his eyes were plucked out, the whole of his head was hacked about with knives, &c." No. 34. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received February 17.) / My Lord, St. Petersburgh, February 11, 1879. A REPORT, published by a Russian newspaper, of which I have the honour to inclose a copy, in translation by Mr. Michell, on the authority of the " Provincial Gazette" of Semipalatinsk, states that the Sarts from the town of Ush, in Khokand, had gained a victory over the Chinese, and had occupied the town of Kashgar This information is said to have been brought by a Sart who had arrived at Semi- palatinsk from Aksu, in Kashgar. It is further reported that Khotan had revolted against the Chinese. I have, &c. (Signed) AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. P.S. — M. de Giers informed me to-day that the Imperial Government had received no intelligence in confirmation of the foregoing report. A. L. / Inclosure in No. 34. Extract from the "Telegraph" o/J.»Sy'I, 1879. RuMOUKED Capture op Kashgar bt the Sarts. — The Semipalatinsk " Pro- vincial Gazette" publishes the following intelligence, which, if confirmed, possesses great importance. The news was brought by a Sart, who has arrived from the „toyvn of Aksu, in KjEishgaria:— " The Sarts from the town of Ush, in the Ferghana region, under the leadership of Aldash Dakhti and Hodji-Hanym-Khan Turi, former ruler of Turpan; have gained a victory over the Chinese, and have occupied, it would seem, the town of Kashgar itself, with the surrounding districts and settlements, such as Artush, &c., also a great portion of the road to Aksu ; they have not, howevier, succeeded yet in gaining possession of the Chinese fort situated close to Kashgar ; Lushi-Daryn has shut himself up in this fort. At the same time Khotan, under the leadership of its former Bek, has revolted againist the Chinese. ''In reference to the nomad Khighiz, who have left Russian territory, no intelligence has been received from Tchugucliak. Rumours are current to the eSect that they have been enticed away by Tchogan-Kehen. 38 " Intelligence received confirms the report that Chinese troops from tJrumchi, Manass, and other towns, are gradually moving on Shiho ; with what object the Chinese are concentrating their troops is not known, but intelligence continues to be received of the transport of grain from Tchuguchak to Shiho. From whence these stores have been obtained is not definitely known. It is statad that they were collected by Djun — the former Dzian Dziun. "It is, however, far more probable that the Chinese have smuggled this grain from the Russian territory. The stores of grain are said to be considerable, and it is conveyed to Shiho in separate transports under a military convoy." No. 35. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received February 26.) (Telegraphic.) Tehran, February 26, lB7fi. I SENT yesterday to the Viceroy of India a telegram to the following eflfecjt:— "I hear from the Agent at Meshed that Herat merchants arriving on the I2th instant state that Eyub Khan will probably be kept out of Herat, that the Gan- dahar and Cabul regiments are deserting, that people have no faith in the Ameer, and that there is great alarm among all classes." No. 36. Lord A. Loftus to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received March 3.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, February 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship an interesting article from the Russian " St. Petersburgh Vedomisti" on the causes of the overflow of the Oxus. I have &c> (Signed) ' AUGUSTUS LOFTUS. Inclosure in No. 36. Extract from the " St. Petersbourg Vedomisti" of February ■^, 1879. (Translation.) OvEiiPLOW OF THE OxTTS.— Colonel Kaulbars, who has made himself thoroughly acquamted with the southern shore of the Sea of Aral, made some highly interesting Sh^jiT^"^^' ^^ ^ meeting of the Imperial Russian Geographical Society held on the iiihfebmSj, 1879, respecting the causes of the deviation of the waters of the 0. No. 42. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {RecHved March 17.) My Lord, -8*. Petersburgh, March 12, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith three translations by Mr. Michell of articles in the Russian press on questions affecting Central Asia : — 1. Respecting the steps about to be taken for exploring the old course of the Oxus and reopening the connection between that river and the Caspian. 2. Respecting the injury to Russian- prestige likely to ensue from the death of Shere Ali, and the probability of Yakoub Khan making peace with Her Majesty's Government. 3. Respecting the opportunity of Russia making some concessions to Great Britain in the Central Asiatic question. I have, &c. (Signed) DUf^FERIN, * This information is at variance with tha intelligence published bv the " Turkestan Gazette." — Translatob. [127] ■ ' G 2 41 Inclosure 1 in No. 42. Extract from the " Novoe Vremia" o/S'^'s, 1879. (Translation.) A CORRESPONDENT of the above paper writes as follows :— "With the death of Shere Ali our position in Central Asia becomes still worse. The successor to the late Ameer will hardly decide on continuing his father's policy and maintaining amicable relations with Russia. It may be that Yakoub Khan will not become reconciled to England, but there is not the slightest doubt that, on ascending the throne, he will seek for peace. "The Indian Government will then, in all probability, tajte advantage of the peaceful inclinations of Yakoub Khan and offer him honourable conditions. If a peace is concluded Russia will finally lose all influence in Afghanistan, and we should not, in the event of any new collision with England, reckon on any sympathy ► in Central Asia with any hostile demonstration we might make against India. Whatever may be the issue of the Anglo-Afghan war, Afghanistan in any case will; suffer enormous losses therefrom, and as we are considered in Central Asia— whether rightly or not is another question — as the instigators of the war, we have no right to reckon either on the confidence or sympathy of the Central Asian people. However unpleasant it may be to confess this,' yet in our own interests it is better to look the truth straight in the face than to delude ourselves with false hopes, for which eventually we should have to pay dearly. " It may be that the English will offer conditions which the ruler of Afghanistan will not accept, but we should hardly reckon on this seriously. If Yakoub Khan becomes the ruler of Afghanistan, the means which he will have at his disposal will render him a formidable foe. Even if he fails to inflict a defeat on the English he can at any rate show them considerable resistance. " It is well known that Shere Ali had many opponents in Afghanistan^ and that nearly all these malcontents were partisans of Yakoub Khan. The number of the latter's adherents continued to increase, and the position of the late Ameer was far from being strong. " The internal disorders and the conflicting parties in Afghanistan partially account for the first startling successes of the English. But once Yakoub Khan becomes legally established on the Afghan throne, the English will be placed in an extremely difficult position. Commanding considerable means, and being supported by all parties, the ruler of Afghanistan will compel the English to be more amenable to reason, and it must be presumed — although in our interests it vvould be unde* sirable — that an agreement will be concluded between the Indian Government and Yakoub Khan. " It is, of course, difficult to say at present in what such an agreement will consist, but probably the English will demand no more than the surrender of the passes and the right of maintaining a permanent Resident at Cabul. It is to be expected that the Afghans will readily accept these conditions, and that peace will be re-established. The English will, of course, be the gainers; the Afghans will lose something, but such an issue of the war cannot but exercise an unfavourable effect on our position in Central Asia. " In all probability we will, in time, be able to strengthen our influence in that part, but there can be no idea of any expedition to India. It is only in the presence of an alliance with Afghanistan that we can reckon on a successful issue of such an expedition; once they conclude an alliance with England the Afghans will hardly care to enter into a compact with us. "And, lastly, if we even succeeded in gaining anew to our side the Ameer of Afghanistan — which is more than improbable — even then our army would be unable to penetrate into southern Afghanistan, as the passes into India would be in the hands of the English." The "St. Petersbourg Vedomisti" of the ^^elZ'^r, 1879, publishes a leading article on the death of Shere Ali, which it concludes with the following remarks :— " We may derive some consolation from the mekncholy fate which has befallen Shere Ali, the late Afghan Ameer. His anxiety to reach St. Petersburgh speaks volumes. The eyes of all the Central Asian potentates are eagerly turned towards St. Petersburgh, and the hope of obtaining a safe asylum within our dominions which is entertained by all the refugees who seek our territory is a great and growing power for us in Central Asia, with which we can oppose the English in the Oxus. 45 " The last reports of English correspondents, reproduced in our paper, assert that the new Afghan Administration is desirous of being guided by Russian advice." Inclosure 2 in No. 42. Extiactfrom the "Moscow Gazette" o/JitT'io, 1879.* (Translation.) THE "Moscow Ga«ette'; of the Hl^^T' intimates that Lord Dufferin, who possesses many agreeable social qualities, has not come to St. Petersburgh for the purpose of extending to Russia the hands of reconciliation, but to induce her to give England certain new prooflfof her readiness to anticipate the wishes of England. With reference to the question of Central Asia, the " Gazette " says that it depends on the Representatives of the Russian Government to convince the Ameer of Afghanistan of the fruitlessness of further resistance. The "Gazette" proceeds to observe : — " Unfortunately the London press does not take the trouble to ejtplain what benefits we shall derive from such a service rendered to England which possesses for her unquestionable importance. Now that our accounts with Turliey are settled, it is time to confess that the Central Asian question was only accidentally connected with the Eastern difficulties. But both these questions possess for us a separate and important signification. There is hardly any necessity to sacrifice -in one direction for the sake of contemplated advantages in another, the more so that we may be perfectly convinced that England will not forego any of her advantages, be our concessions what they may. It is likewise necessary to turn our attention to the following :— In the East, at least as regards Bulgaria, the natural force of events leads to a settlement which must be favourable to the ancient aspirations of Russian policy. In Central Asia all will depend on the manner in which the name of Russia will be maintained. The English demand and expect from us certain proofs of friendship. It would not be superfluous for us likewise to turn our attention to the fact that our friends the English are not seriously exerting them- selves towards the maintenance of our prestige in Central Asia." The "Gazette " then cites in support of this view the speech alleged to have recently been made by General Roberts to the natives of the Khost Valley, in which he warned them to place no reliance on the promises of Russia. Inclosure 3 in No. 42. Substance of Article in the " Golos" of February if, 1879. (Translation.) Exploration of Old Ootjesb op Oxtts. — According to the " Golos " of the •|f th February, 1879, at a meeting of the Society for the Encouragement of Trade and Industry, held on the -g^th instant, it was announced that M. Possiette, the Minister of Ways and Communications, had determined to form a special Commission, to be composed of the representatives of various administrative branches, for the purpose of discussing on the spot the question of the possibility of irrigating the hitherto barren steppe and connecting the waters of the Oxus with the Caspian Sea. The labours of the Commission will be employed in taking levels of the country, of making various surveys, and of collecting information as to the cost of future operations, &c. It is proposed that the Commission shall consist of representatives of the Ministries of War, Marine, Finances, Imperial Domains and Communications ; of the military districts of the Caucasus and Turkestan ; of the Academy of Sciences, and of the Geographical Society and the Society for the Encouragement of Trade and Industry. The Commission is to be formed at once, and provided with the necessary instructions. At a meeting of the Imperial Russian Technical Society of the Caucasus held on the lea, February, Colonel Petrusevitch made a statement in regard to the restoration of the old course of the Oxus. In his communication the Colonel drew attention to the fact that, in order to irrigate the steppe to the south and south-west of the town of Kunia-rUrgench by the re-establishment of the course of the Oxus to 46 the Lakes of Sara-Kamysh, the Laudon Canal must be considered as the best means to attain this object. The quantity of water necessary for such a purpose would only: be from oV,th to A th part of the whole of the water in the Oxus The water has already, reached 'Sara-Kamysh, and at high flood it may reach the Caspian Sea, if only it is made to avoid the Lakes of Sara-Kamysh, where great evaporation and absorption take place Colonel Petrusevitch positively maintained that the waters ot the Oxus, with a current of 100 cubic fathoms a second, can reach the Caspian Sea. The Colonel then stated that, in exploring a route which would avoid the Lakes, attention should principally be directed to the old channels of the Uzboi, a part of which have already oeen explored It is now necessary, says the Colonel, to continue this exploration from the meridian of the Shamrat Canal to the wells of Kudju-Kuyu as for the point of intersection of the old beds by the Uzboi. The months of September, October, and March represent the best time for conducting exploratiops. No. 43. ITie Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received March 24.) Mv Lord, St. Peterslurgh, March 19, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship a translation by Mr. Michell of a letter which has appeared in the " Moscow Gazette " reporting the discovery of a new route from the Caspian to Kungrad. I have, &c. (Signed) . DUFB^ERIN. Tnclosure in No. 43. Extract from the "Moscow Gazette" of March -^g, 1879. (Translation.) THE "Moscow Gazette" of the ^^th March, 1879, publishes the following letter from a correspondent in reference to a newly-discovered route from the Caspian to Kungrad : — " Sir, " 1 venture to call your attention to the discovery of a new route to the Sea of Aral, which is far more convenient and cheaper than the route contemplated from Krasnovodsk Bay, along the old bed of the Oxus, and the one already existing through Orenburg and Kuzala. " The new route was traversed last autumn by the caravans of the Brothers Vanushin, merchants of Ural, who have distinguished themselves by their enterprise in the steppes contiguous with Central Asia. "The route commences from the Bay of Mertvoi Kultuk on the Caspian Sea, and is 400 versts distant from Kungrad. The means of transport at present employed by the merchants Vanushin are extremely simple: a camel harnessed to a four-wheeled waggon is made to carry a load of 30 poods, whereas only 16 poods; were transportable with the employment of pack-camels. The road traversed by these caravans was level and the ground hard ; very little sand was encountered ; hills and streams of a nature to obstruct the progress of these caravans were not met with. As many as twenty wells with fresh water and three with brackish water were found along the extent of the route. The wells contained a supply of water sufficient for 200 camels. The caravans found no scarcity in these latter, as any number could always be hired for a small amount from the Khirghiz camping in the neighbourhood. "This new communication with the Sea of Aral undoubtedly possesses a brilliant future, as, with the exception of 400 versts from Mertvoi Kultuk to Kungrad, it is effected principally by water. By the Sea of Aral and the Oxus it leads to Khiva and Bokhara, and by the Caspian and the Volga to Russia. "According to the merchants Vanushin this route is shorter by one-half the distance than that of Orenburg. "Much, of course, will have to be done in perfecting this newly-discovered route. For a regular and quick communication with the Sea of Aral and the Oxus a line of steamers would be necessary, with the establishment of which the transport 47 of goods to Kungrad would be exceedingly cheap. The caravan of the merchants Vanushin brought to Moscow by way of this new route consignments of caviare and fish from a fishery established by them on the Sea of Aral. (Signed) "Alexander Morokin." No. 44. • Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received March 25, 1879.) My Lord, Tehran, January 6, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that I have this evening received a letter from Herat containing information which, 1 am of opinion, may be con- sidered as reliable, that Shere Ali Khan had given orders for the ifnmediate dispatch from Herat to Candahar of 2,000 irregular horse. They were ordered to leave ten days back, and are commanded by Abdullah Khan, formerly Vizier of Herat. They are intended to destroy our communications and to surprise and carry off our camels whilst on the march or grazing. My correspondent further states that an additional poll-tax of 5 rupees and a forced levy of one in twenty of the male population of Cabul has caused additional discontent at that place. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 45. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received March 25.) My Lord, Tehran, January 11, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copies of the Reports which I have received from the Meshed Agent and from Boojnoord. T have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 45. The Meshed Agent to Mr. JR. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) December 2S, '\ 878. FOUR days ago Baba Khan, the son of Kousheed Khan, addressed a petition to the Prince Governor, saying that by his orders he had severed himself and tribe from the other Turkomans with the intention of coming and residing at Serrekhs and submitting to Persia ; that he had also dispatched hostages to Meshed, but that after doing all, this he had been disappointed in his h9pes, and was now ashamed before all the other Turkoman tribes ; he now, therefore, wished to know what he was to do. The Prince, two days ago, replied that for the present his representa- tions could not be attended to. The Akhal Turkomans have become hostile, and are now engaged in assembling men to jnake a raid on Persian territory. The Hishmet-ul-Mulk (Governor of Seistan) has distinctly informed the Itimad-es-Sultaneh* that it is unnecessary for him to come to Seistan. The Persian Ministers have refused to sanction the request of the Hishmet-ul- Mulk to be allowed to cross over and take Kaleh Fatti and seize Sirdar Sherrif Khan, and have sent orders through the Prince Governor to that effect. The irregular cavalry placed as a garrison at Derehgez by the Prince Governor suddenly returned to Meshed. The Prince ordered their Chief to be bastinadoed, but through the intercession of several of the chief men of Meshed he was pardoned. Twenty days ago nine Turkomans appeared between Abbasabad and Mazenan (on the high road between Meshed and Tehran) ; they succeeded in carrying off * The Persian ofiScer proceeding in charge of reinforcements to Seistan. 48 several captives and twelve camels. Three days ago it was telegraphed to the Prince Governor that they had attacked a caravan and carried off seven mule loads of merchandize, in one of the bales of which there was 7,000 tomans in cash ; that after going some distance they opened the bales in question, when they discovered the money ; on remounting they fell in with ten Persian horsemen, commanded by Afrasiab Khan, and a skirmish took place, in which two of the Turkomans were killed and many were wounded on both sides ; but at last the marauders succeeded in carrying off the money, but had to leave the merchandize behind. The weather is very dry up till now, and the presence of the troops recently arrived and the expectation of others has caused a rise in the price of grain. Inclosure 2 in No. 45, (Translation.) December 15, 1878, FOUR days ago the Governor of Herat, Sirdar Mahommed Omarkhan, received an order from Ameer Shere Ali Khan directing him to summon 2,000 horsemen, and having given them their pay and supplied them with tents and stores for the journey, to dispatch them as soon as possible to Candahar. These 2,000 horse are to consist of 200 men of the Jemsheedee tribe, 200 of the Hezareh tribe, 200 of theTeimanee tribe, 200 of the Firoozkoohee tribe, and 1,000 of the Afghans residing , in the plains of Herat. They are under prders to leave Herat for Candahar by the 26th. The Governor has been occupied in collecting these men, making a list of their names, place of residence, paying them and providing them with the necessary equipments. They will be commanded by Sirdar Abdullah Khan, former Vizier of Herat. The intention in summoning this body of horse to Candahar is that it only being one or two stages from Peshang to Quetta the horsemen-should (be able to) attack and carry off the baggage animals of the English army, which are turned out to graze during the night time. The Afghan authorities presume that the English military authorities being unaware of these plans they may succeed in depriving them of all their baggage animals by bringing these horsemen from Herat, and thereby inflict a great loss on the English army. The Ameer has levied a fresh tax of 10 krans upon every inhabitant of Cabul, and out of every twenty men one soldier is to be supplied. The inhabitants are greatly exasperated at these orders. The Candahar merchants are greatly alarmed at the present state of affairs at Candahar. It is said that the British troops at Quetta have advanced in the direction of Peshang, and that there has been a battle. Inclosure 3 in No. 46, (Translation.) Boojnoord, December 10, 1878. THE Russian troops at Chat cannot stir through fear of the T6k6 Turkomans. On the 16th November a party of ten persons took some baskets of bread from Goorgan to Chat which they sold there, but on returning they came across a party of T^ke Turkomans, who killed three of them, and the other seven whom they made captives they sold at Karee Kaleh. On the 21st November several of the Sheikhullah tribe came to the Goorgan Valley to purchase wheat ; when returning the Russians heard of their approach, and having seized them at a farsakh distant from Chat imprisoned them at that place. There was a rumour here on the 26th November that 40,000, or as some said 20,000, fresh troops had marched from Krasnovodsk, and it was conjectured that they might have reached Chat by this time. It was said that they had orders to exterminate the T6k6 tribe, and that they would leave Chat on the 7th, although others said that they would not leave till about the 21st March next. The T^k^s are at present undisturbed, and are free from apprehension. The five camps which had submitted to the Russians have thought better of it, and should the Russians attack the Tekes a stout resistance will be made. • r '^'^^P"^® of grain is 5 tomans among the Turkomans; they come and purchase It from the people here, and no objection is made to its being sold to them. • 49 . . . No. 46. Mr, R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. -—{Received March 25.) (Extract.) . Tehran, January 11, 1879. I HAVE tlie honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, translation of a letter from Asterabad, from which it appears that the Russian force at Chat is being hard pressed by the Turkomans. Inclosure in No. 46. (Extract.) January 5, 1879. THE Russian camp is still*at Chat, and the men are engaged in erecting buildings. They are in great straits for pi"ovisions ; all the requirements of the camp are sent by sea to Chekishler, and are transported thence to Chat. Camels are hired from the Yemoots at from 12 to 20 krans a head for this purpose. The Tekes have sent word to the Charva tribe of the Yemoots, telling them not to leave their quarters, as rhey (the T.ek(5s) intend advancing upon Chat with a considerable body of horse, in which case their animals and cattle would probably be lost to them, (if found thereabouts). The Tek6 horsemen are daily closing in on the Russian camp and putting them to great straits. Tv\(0 hundred Russian soldiers had been dispatched as a convoy to bring in the loads of provisions coming in from Chekishler, but as the provisions were not dispatched in time the soldiers were obliged to encamp on the banks of the Atrek, as they were unable to return to Chat; their provisions also running short they gave money to the Davajee Charva tribe to procure provisions for them from amongst the Turkoman tribes. To-day, the 5th, intelligence was received that a considerable number of horse- men have been seen on this side of the Atrek proceeding to Chekishler and Hussein Koolee. ' No rain whatever has fallen. There is no grass in the plains and no seed has yet been sown. The Yemoot tribes are suffering from this, especially the Charva. tribe, who through fear of their lives and property dare not go to distant pasture lands. No. 47. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received March 25.) My Lord, Tehran, January 16, 1S79. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that the 600 men constituting' the Russian detachment at Chat are in a critical position, as they are surrounded i*y the Akhal Turkomans. These have, moreover, lately attacked Chekishler, whence they succeeded in carrying off all the camels which had been collected there, though protected by the guns of the Ashurada Squadron, who had been sent to Chekishler to protect that place. Their leader is a Russian lieutenant who had deserted. His name is Iskender Bey, a Lesghee. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 48. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received-March 25.) (EtKtvsLCt.) Tehran, Janua^-y 18, 1819. 1 HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copy of a Report which I have received from the Meshed Agent. [127] H 50 Inclosure in No. 48. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) January 4, 1879. FOUR days ago intelligence was received from Derehgez that Dowlet Murad Khan having come with a considerable number of the Akhal Turkomans to attack that province, he had been defeated with the loss of twenty killed and prisoners [sic]. The details of the above now appear to be as follows : — Dowlet Murad Khan, his three brothers, and about 1,000 Turkomans, had crossed into the district of Derehgez, but the Derehgez horsemen, who also mustered 1,000 men, suddenly attacked them in their camp ; a fight ensuing, one brother of Dowlet Murad Khan was killed and his head cut off; another of his brothers was wounded and taken Brisoner, and about 300 Turkomans were killed, wounded, and made prisoners, •owlet Murad Khan, although wounded, escaped. No. 49. Mr. tt. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.-'^iReceived March 25.) My Lord, Tehran, January 20, 1879, INFORMATION from Herat, under date of December 25, has reached me to the effect that the local government were making extensive military preparations, but as they were not sure of what the plans of the Persian Government might be, they had no intention of sending more assistance to Candahar than the body of cavalry about whom I had the honour to report to your Lordship in my despatch of the 6th instant, 1 have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 50, Mr. iJ. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— -(Received March 25.) ^y Lord, Tehran, January 24, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of a characteristic article in the '* Tehran Gazette," announcing the defeat of Dowlet Morad Khan, the nephew of the late Chief of Derehgez, who, as I have already reported to your Lord*- ship, with the assistance of a body of Akhal Turkomans, raised a revolt in that district. Having been, in the first instance, driven out of Derehgez, he took refuge amongst the Turkomans, whither, there being indication of an intention on his part to renew the attack, he was followed by the Persian Frontier Horse. There is no doubt of his defeat, and of his having been wounded, while one of his brothers was captured and put to death, and the other taken in chains to Meshed ; but allowance must be made for exaggerations as to the numbers engaged and the result obtamed. ° ° 1 have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 50. Extract from the "Tehran (Government) Gazette.'' (Translation.) 7 Q 187Q Dowl^f^Sr^J^T ^^^ t.'^'^u'*^"' ^'■^"P^ Stationed in Khorassan having given \o ?haTtho^m,?h Tn h'^^^.'^t-^^^^^^^ ''^^ had joined themselves to his cause, Dowleh Print^rn '"^^^^^^ ^^'^ '^^''''''^' His Royal Highness the Rukn-ud- fo his Hi^hnet^L i^'^'i^t ^^^"T^" ^"^ *^'^*^»' ««"t a t^legrlm giving the details to his Highness the Sipeh Salar, of which the following is a copy :- 51 '' At this moment, which is the sunset of Thursday, the 2nd January, I have received a letter fromMahommed Ali Khan, Governor of Derehgez, informing me that Dowlet Morad Khan, accompanied by 2,000 Akhal Turkomans, having entered the Attrek, he also took a body of trustworthy followers, both horse and foot, and went as far as the village of Mahen, where he met them ; that he put the chosen and experienced horsemen — the warriors of many a fight— into the vanguard ; that he then formed the Shamkhalchees, under the command of Seyd Ali'Khan; Fatti Ali Khan, with the Beezekel Horse ; Ali Mahommed Khan, with the Koochani Horse, and the other horsemen into the main body, and sent them on, whilst he himself, accompanied by the aiezkanj footmen, followed as a rearguard. That the illustrious horsemen, caring very little for their lives, and valuing an honourable name more than existence, made a rush like ^e billows and waves of an angry torrent upon Dowlet Morad Khan and the infidel (Turkoman) horsemen. They, finding them- selves crushed and overthrown by these invincible warriors, sought safety in flight. About 300 heads and captives fell into the hands of the victorious troops. Ameer Morad Agha, Dowlet Morad Khan's brother, falling into the hands of the Derehgez detachment, was immediately dispatched to kingdom come. Khan Morad Agha, another brother of Dowlet Morad Khan, getting wounded, was taken captive. Most of the Derehgez followers of Dowlet Morad Khan were put to death, whilst the horsemen each captured a Turkoman. Dowlet Morad Khan, with the remainder of his followers, took to flight in a most ignominious manner to save themselves from a disgraceful death. " The Merv horsemen, who had also moved with the intention of assisting Dowlet Morad Khan, on hearing of his despicable defeat remained at the spring of Tejjen, not knowing what to do. " Mahommed Ali Khan, the Governor of Derehgez, is also taking all necessary precautionary measures." Thus, thanks to God, through the high fortune of His Majesty the Shah (may our souls be his sacrifice !) and your Highness' kindness, this affair ended. (Signed) RUKN-UD-DOWLEH. No. 51. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— ^{Received March 25.) (Extract.) Tehran, January 27, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of a letter written at Meshed, giving a detailed statement of the force and number of guns at present at Herat. I communicated this intelligence yesterday to his Excellency the Viceroy of India. Inclosure in No. 51. (Translation.) January 19, 1879. ■ YESTERDAY evening — and arrived from Herat. They left that city on the 11th. The news of Mahommed Yakoub Khan's release had reached a fortnight before they started, but the Sepeh Salai' kept it secret until receiitlyi when some Candaharees arrived at Herat, and they making it public, the authorities also announced the fact. There is no doubt that Ameer Shere Ali Khan has gone io Balkh and taken his family and treasure with him. He also took a great many families of the Cabulee Chiefs, and of the officers who are at Balkh aud Herat, The British army has also entered Jellalabad ; before it entered a fight took place, in which Mirakhor Ahmed Khan, the Governor, a number of officers, and a considerable number of men were killed. The Afghans being defeated, their ammunition, provisions, &c., fell into the hands of the English. The army from Quetta has also arrived at Peshin, and took possession of 1,300 khawars of grain, which had been stored up by the Afghans. Up till now no news has been received of their taking Candahar. Whoever has been afcle to remove his family from the town has done so, and no proper troops remain there. In fact, Candahar is like an evacuated town. Great alarm also exists amongst [127] H 2 52 the people and troops of Herat, but as yet no one has left the town, nor is thbr6 any discord amongst the authorities. , . /^ , i The troops at Herat now consist of 17 infantry regiments, 14 Cabulee, and 3 Heratee. Each regiment consists of 700 men, 100 of whom are the musicians, &c., and 600 rank and file. , ,, ^ , , .. u There are also 2,000 horse, but these are so badly off that they cannot be sent anywhere if wanted. , i ■ The infantry are not so (as regards their arras, &c.), but they have not been regularly paid recently, for no money was received from Cabul, and, it being the end of the year, nothing remains of the revenues of Herat. The ammunition served out to them is of good quality. They have also full supplies of grain, wood, and hay, to last them three months. The artillery at Herat is as follows : — Encamped Outside. 6 guns, horse artillery, under Seyd All Khan. 6 guns, horse artillery, under Faroagh Khan. Inside the Town. 6 guns, breechloaders, imder Mahommed Ali Khan. 6 guns, ordinaiy, under Mahommed Shah Khan. 6 guns, ordinary, under Meer Mahommed Khan. 6 guns, ordinary, under Ahmed Gul Khan. 6 guns, mountain, loaded on mules. 6 guns, drawn by bullocks. 22 guns, which were formerly in Herat. 6 guns, mountain ; and 6 guns, horse artillery, cast by the Sepeh Salar. 82 pieces in all. .No. 52. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received March 25.) My Lord, Tehran, January 28, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of letters from tne Asterabad Agent. He reports that a fresh Russian force was said to have landed lately on tire Turkoman coast, but no confirmation of this intelligence seems to have reached the Persian Government. I have &c. (Signed) ' RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 52. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation^ .January 14, 1879. PEOFLIl, are getting alarmed because of the dryness of the season. Makhdoom Kootee, the Turkoman Chief, has again rebelled, and gone, with his followers, to the Atrek. On the 1st he attacked the Prince's camp, and shot three soldiers. He took offence at having been refused 100 khawars of rice when he asked the Prince for it. On the 8th the llussian Commodore came to Gez from Ashuradeh, and, on landing, immediately dispatched a messenger to the Consul, who was woken up and the letter given 'him. ' Nothing, however, transpired until two days after when the Turkomans informed the Prince Governor that 5,000 T^ke horsemen had attacked Chat and killed and captured about seventy Cossacks who were on guard. Ihey also carried off ],C00 camels and 200 oxen. The Turkomans gave such an exaggerated account of the attack that he became alarmed, and had cartridges served out to the troops. He also gave 15 tomans to 53 two Jaaferbai Turkomans to. go and bring authentic news for him. I will report the result by next post. Inclosure 2 in No. 52. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson.. * (Translation.) January 20, 1879. THE Prince's camp is at Ak-kaleh. Two days ago news was received that Yar Mahommed Khan, the Governor of Boojnoord, had waylaid the Tek6 Turkomans who were returning from their attack on the Russians at Chekishler, and having attacked them a number were killed. He took all the camels, cattle, and sheep they had carried off from the S,iissians. The Prince Governor, on learning this, expressed his regret that he had no irregular cavalry under him, or else, he said, he would have pursued these Turkomans as far as Bayat-Haji and haye exter- minated them. Yesterday a Gholam belonging to the Persian Foreign Office Agency came in from Gez. He reports that a new Russian force has been landed for the Turkoman plains, and their General will follow very shortly. Jnclosure 3 m No. 52. Letter from Asterabad, received January 20, 1879. (Translation.) THE following news is authentic : 400 Teke horsemen came to Che"kishler, and first met the Russian Videttes, whom they captured ; they then attacked the garrison, killing and wounding some, who, not being able to make a stand, took to the boats and began firing their swivel guns. The Turkomans, finding that they could do nothing to them, drove away all their cattle and flocks which were in the fields. From there they proceeded to Chat, where they inflicted some loss also. In the last four or five days the Russian Consul has been disposing of his property by auction, and intends returning to Russia by the 25th January. His Secretary succeeds him (temporarily). No rain has fallen here or in the Goorgan Valley for the last three months. The Yemoots have not sown -any grain, and are in a terrible state of alarm and apprehension. Two days ago news was received that a body of 500 T6ke Turkomans had passed Derehgez on a raiding expedition towards Meshed, but 1 cannot vouch for the truth of the information. The Russians and Turkomans are each of them preparing to attack the other, and it remains to be seen what will be the result. No. 53. Mr. R, Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received "March 25.) My Lord, Tehran, January 28, 1879. 1 HAVE the honour to inclose herewith copies of letters which I have received from the Meshed Agent. The news which he has received from Boojnoord respecting the movement of a large Russian force from Krasnovodsk seems to me to be premature, and I have observed, with respect to the statements as to numbers which reach him from Turkoman sources, that they may safely be divided by ten. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. // 64 Inclosure 1 in No, 53. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) January 11, 1879. FROM what I have learnt, it appears that after Sirdar Taj Mahommed Khan left Seistan and went to Kaleh Fatti, a considerable number of the chief people of Seistan emigrated with him also ; that when the Hishmut-ul-Mulk entered Seistan he ordered the fort of Se Koheh to be plundered, which was accordingly done. The Itimad-es-Sultaneh has been ordered to return to Meshed. To-day the captives and heads recently taken at Derehgez were brought in procession to Meshed, led by a band of music. There were 54 heads and 4 captives. Among others was the head of Dowlet Mored Khan's brother, who fell in the fight, and his other brother, who was captured, was led in chains. On the 31st December 30 horse and 70 foot men of the Merv Turkomans, commanded by Bakenj Sirdar, came on a raiding expedition to the neighbourhood of Meshed. The foot men were left in the mountain pass, whilst the horsemen succeeded in capturing 4 shepherds and 2,000 sheep. Meanwhile, Ismail Khan Hezareh, accompanied by 500 horsemen, followed the marauders and came up to them between Serrekhs and Tejjin ; a fight ensued, but the Hezareh horsemen were over-matched by the Turkomans, and only succeeded in recovering 300 of the sheep with the shepherds and capturing one of the Turkomans. In the last month no news has been received from Merv, as the roads are closed. On the 4th there was a heavy fall of rain, and provisions are consequently greatly reduced in price. Inclosure 2 in No. 53. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) January 19, 1879. DURING this week no one has arrived from Herat except those who came to Sirdar Eyoub Khan, bringing him the tidings of Sirdar Yakoub Khan's release. It has been reported from Serrekhs and Kelat that a considerable body of Merv Turkomans, both horse and foot, have started on a raiding expedition into Khorassan, and are at present near Tejjin. The Prince, therefore, intends dispatching 500 horsemen to the frontier. Four days ago the son of Kousheed Khan again wrote to the Prince Governor, saying that he is treated with scorn and contempt by his tribe for the way he has been treated by the Persian Government ; therefore, if His Royal Highness could do nothing for him, he hoped he would allow him to go himself to Tehran and arrange his affairs. The Prince wrote, in reply, that until the Turkomans brought their families and the Persian cannon to Serrekhs, the Persian Ministers could not trust their statement. From Boojnoord I hear that a considerable Russian force has landed at Krasnovodsk for Chat ; some say they are 40,000 men, whilst others afSrm that they are only 20,000. The present force at Chat is 4,000 men. All their pro- visions come from Krasnovodsk. A large number of the Russian soldiers' wives and families have come to Krasnovodsk from Astrakhan. The Tek6 Turkomans are quiet at present. The Russians do not allow them to visit Chat. Grain is very scarce amongst the said Turkomans, the price being 6 tomans per kharwar. So that they are purchasing all the wheat they can get at Boojnoord. I hear from Merv that two regiments are at Chehar Jooy, that the Governor of that place is dead, and some one else is appointed. The Turkoman caravan has been detained at Urgenj, as the authorities of that place demand the restitution of the property plundered from the Urgenj caravan. The Turkomans have refused to give it up, and a body of 1,000 men have now gone to attack Urgenj. The Ameer of Bokhara, having gone to Kirshee, has not yet returned. • 55 No. 54. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received April 7.) My Lord, Tehran, February 7, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, the substance of a telegram which 1 have had the honour of addressing this day to his Excellency the Viceroy of India respecting Shere Ali Khan and Sirdar Eyub Khan. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 54. Mr. R, Thomson to the Viceroy of India. Telegraphic.) Tehran, February 7, 1879. WITH reference to the inquiry made in your Excellency's telegram of yester- day, nothing is known here of the death of the Ameer. I believe that Eyub Khan wrote lately to the Persian Government announcing his wish to return to Afghanistan, and expressing his desire to render services to them at Herat in the present juncture. In reply, they encouraged his return to Afghanistan, and advanced him two months' allowance to pay his debts, &c. It will not improbably, therefore, be given out by Eyub and others that he is proceeding to Herat in the interests of Persia. I myself, however, see no grounds for attributing political motives to their action ; their natural wish to get rid of so expensive a guest is sufficient to account for it. No. 55. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. '— {Received April 7-.) My Lord, Tehran, February 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, translations of Reports received from the Meshed Agent, together with translation of a letter from Herat, dated the 12th January. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 55. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. ■ (Translation.) January 25, 1879. SEVERAL days ago I received a letter from Herat, which I inclose. As regards the Ameer's proceeding to St. Petersburgh, I presume it to be at the instigation of the Russian Government ; otherwise he would never have thought of taking such a step. Should the chiefs of the British army open negotiations for peace with Sirdar Yakoub Khan bloodshed will be saved ; but should he follow in his father's footsteps, then the war would be brought to a speedy conclusion by the taking of Herat. Information was received, from Boojnoord a few days ago that fresh troops have arrived at Chat, and intend taking Akhal. The authorities at Asterabad also wrote to Suleiman Khan that a considerable force of Russians had landed at Krasnovodsk, but were (soon after) recalled to St. Petersburgh. Sirdar Eyub Khan, having asked permission to return to Afghanistan, the Persian Government granted it, and gave him about 2,700 tomans in advance, being- two months' allowance, to enable him to undertake his journey. 56 Inclosure 2, in No. 55. (Translation.) Herat, January 12, 1879. A SERVANT of the Sepeh Salar, who had been sent from here to Cabal, returned to-day. He brought several letters from the Ameer Shere Ali Khan, written from Bamian, to the Herat authorities, informing them that he (the Ameer) having been repeatedly invited to St. Petersburgh to attend a European Congress respecting his affairs, and to the concluding of an alliance with Russia ; and the Russian Envoy having also been instructed to urge his departure, he had accordingly left Cabul for St. Petersburgh, taking Sirdar Shere Ali Khan, Mirza HabeebuUah Khan, Moostovvfee, the son of Sirdar J.Iahommed Shereef Khan, and several others, as well as two ressalas of horse with him. He had also written that one or more engagements had taken place between the British and Afghan troops in the Khyber Pass, in which the former had been beatep back, and that the news of the capture of Jellalabad and Candahar is quite false; that the (Herat) authorities were not to be alarmed in the least, but were to keep the country in perfect order and guard the frontiers, until he should be able to arrange his affairs and return from Russia ; and that he had intrusted the affairs of Cabul to Sirdar Mahommed Yakoub Khan. It is also said that the British authorities instigated the Khyberees to fight with the Ameer's troops, urging them to defeat them with great loss. The Ameer has removed all his family to Turkestan. The horsemen ordered to Candahar have not yet left here. I think the autho> rities are afraid to denude the city of cavalry. Inclosure 3 in No. 55. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) February 1, 1879. YESTERDAY a letter was received from the Itimad-es-Sultaneh, saying that he would arrive at Meshed on the 7th. His regiment has received permission to return to Tehran. Nasrullah Khan, of Jam, has taken sanctuary (here at the holv shrine), as he claims to have spent 450 tomans on the Merv Turkomans at Serrekhs. Part of the Toorsheez Regiment has also taken sanctuary because of their officer not having given the arrears of their pay and rations. The Shoqja-ud-Dowleh and his son, Abdul Hassan Khan, leave for Koochan to-morrow. Sirdar Eyoub Khan is preparing to leave for Herat. The Persian Government have made him a present of 1,500 tomans ; also 3,000 tomans in advance on account * ' of the allowance they gave him. Robberies are on the increase, as 2,000 horse and 2 regiments are quartered in the town. No. 56. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received April 7.) My Lord, _ Tehran, February 15, 1879. I HA\E the honour to inclose herewith translations of letters which I have received from Asterabad. These letters mention that the Russians are purchasing and storing provisions, and a rumour that material had been landed at Chekishler for the construction of a railv/ay thence to Chat. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. * 57 Inclosure 1 in No. 56. Letter received from Aster ahad. (Translation.) January 27, 1879. A BAND of 400 Teke Turkomans made a raid (upon Chat),' and carried off all the camels and oxen of the Russians which were grazing in the fields. Some Cossacks who were guarding the animals were killed, and others were carried off into captivity. General Llamakin is at Krasnovodsk. There are only two regiments at Chat, and these are engaged in fortifying the place. They have sent to Fenderisk and the villages of Asterabad to purchase cattle. It- is reported that a considerable Russian force will be landed by the middle of March, and then matters betweelf them and the Tekes will be brought to a con- clusion. The Russians are now purchasing provisions. The T^k^s have renewed their friendly relations with the Turkomans of Karee Kaleh and those of Goklan. They are also endeavouring to make friends with the Yemoot tribes of the Goorgan, and with tlie Chama tribes, the whole object they have in view being to cut off the Russians from all means of procuring provisions. The Consul, M. Bakouline, left yesterday for Russia, and his Secretary is acting for the present. The Persian camp is in the Goorgan Valley, and is to be there permanently ; but if the soldiers are not relieved in another month not a single soul will remain, through want of clothes, the cold weather, and poverty. Inclosure 2 in No. 56. Letter received from Asterabad. (Translation.) • {Received February 9, 1879.) '^ AFTER the T^kes made a raid upon Chekishler, they returned to Kizil Ervat. They are on friendly terms with the Yemoot and Goklan tribes, but keep it secret. General Llamakin summoned several of the Yemoot Elders, and asked them if they were true friends to Russia, and, if so, why their tribe did not pursue and overtake the Tek6s, but allowed them to carry off the Russian cattle, whilst their (the Yemoots) herds and flocks remained untouched. In answer they denied any complicity or friendship with the T6kes. The General told them that if they were telling an untruth he would also have nothing to say to them in future. The Yemoots are in great alarm and fear of the Russians. Ammunition and provisions are being constantly sent to Chat. Railway material has also been landed, and they intend constructing for the present a railway to Chat, A Sirdar, named Tokhmeed, has risen up amongst the T^k^s, who have all given in their adhesion to him. The Yemoot and Goklan tribes will, to all appearances, gain the T^k^s to (try to) put down the Russians, but it is very doubtful whether they will succeed, for how can they make a stand when once a railway is constructed to Chat, and constant supplies are dispatched thereby. There is also a rumour that Tokhmeed Sirdar made a raid upon Dereghez, and Mahommed Ali Khan attacked and took him prisoner. The truth of this can better be ascertained at Tehran. The T^k^s are in force at Kizil Ervat, and are engaged in blocking up the passes, &c., so as to prevent the passage of guns, but what use can there be in this, for when once the Russian troops rush on like a torrent, what will the Turkomans be able to do. If the present state of affairs continues, the Yemoot Turkomans and those residing in the Goorgan Valley will be very badly off, and will be obliged to tender their allegiance to Persia, an^ serve (the Shah) faithfully. It is, however, to be regretted, that once the Turkoman plain falls into the hands of Russia, neither will any Turkomans remain (there), nor will they (the Russians) leave other places quiet. [127] I 58 It is also said that troops have marched upon Merv from Khiva, but I cannot vouch for the truth of this report. The Russians continue to purchase camels and oxen from the districts round about. No. 57. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received April 7.) My Lord, Tehran, February^ 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, translation of a Firman addressed by Shere Ali Khan to the authorities at Herat, in which he states that he was proceeding to St. Petersburgh under the advice pf his Ministers, and of the Russian Representatives, to appeal to Europe against England, and mentions the receipt of a letter from General Stoletoff at Livadia conveying promises of assistance on the part of the Emperor of Russia. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 57. Firman issued by Ameer Shere Ali Khan. Translation.) December 22, 1878. LET the high in rank, &c., Sirdar Mahommed Ameer Khan, the Governor of Herat, Toolirasheer Sahib, and Hassan Ali Khan, the Sepah Salar-e-Azem, be honoured by this Royal Firman and know : — That having previously announced the result of the fights of our victorious troops, to-day also that, by the grace of God, a series of victories have been won by the lion-devouring warriors, we have deemed it necessary to announce the details (if the same to you, so that you may be made fully aware of the facts. The state of affairs and of hostilities on the Khyber frontier line are as follows : — At the outset there were only five regiments stationed at Ali Musjid as a permanent garrison, when the British troops advanced to attack therai The said few regiments gave battle to fourteen of the infidel white regiments, and for about eight hours the roar of cannon and musketry, together with the clashing of swords, was incessant, till, in accordance with the words of the sacred verse, "there is no victory except that which comes from God," the goodness and strength of the Almighty aided the lion-catching warriors, and they totally defeated the English army, when, a considerable number being killed and wounded on both sides, a stop was put to further fighting, and each side retired to his own camp. Six days after two other engagements took place at Peiwar, where the victorious troops again, in their zeal to push back the infidel army, brought on a day like that of the Day of Judgment, and, rushing on like a torrent, compelled the infidels to fall back. Since then, to the present moment, the English troops have not dared to show fight, nor to make any advance. In fact, on account of the severeness of the winter, and especially by the acdon of the Ooloosat people and the Afridi tribes, who are anxious for the infliction of loss on their (the English) lives and property, it is quite certain that they will not make ^ny forward advance. As perfect harmony exists in all the affairs of this mighty Government, most of heNobles and Chiefs of this country have made certain representations to us in person, with the view of putting a stop to this mischief, which may affect the peace of this Government. The opinion of our Ministers and military officers being also in conformity with our Royal views, we have decided that to put a stop to the present troubles there is no alternative but to have recourse to friendly negotiations as opposed to hostility and warfare; for instance, although our enemy should give up his hostile attitude and the idea of interfering in Afghanistan, yet, having taken up arms against us, he ought to be bound down by diplomatic action. It now being winter and his advance difficult, and as in the spring this evil will be sure to break out afresh, there is no better opportunity than the present, when 59 the enemy has not the power of moving in consequence of the severity of the winter, that our Royal self should proceed to the capital of Russia and open an official correspondence with the British Grovernment. We have accordingly, in conformity with the approval of our Ministers and a number of our well-wishers, decided on proceeding to St. Petersburgh, the capital of the Russian Emperor, and have appointed our elder and beloved son. Sirdar Mahommed Yakoub Khan, to act in our absence, leaving the whole of the Sirdars, viz., Sar Ghatamsheer Bahadur Khan, Daood Shah Khan, Hyder Khan, Ghatamsheer Bahadur, Mahommed Kereem Khan, Ghatamsheer Bahadur, the mighty regiments, Mirza Seyd Ahmed Khan, Naib Mahommed Raheem Khan, the Royal archives, the Treasury, and the special Chamberlains, under his immediate orders. We also, under an auspicious fortune, and putting our trust in Almighty God, left Cabul on the 13th December, accompanied by our illustrious brother [sic], Sirdar Shere Ali Khan, Shah Mahommed Khan, our Minister for Foreign Affairs, Meerza Habeeballah, the Mustowfee-ul-Momalek, Kazee Abdul Kader Khan, a few servants, and one "Nomadek Kandek Utpoor," the Russian Envoys, who also took part in the council we held respecting this journey, together with the High Princes, Sirdar Mahommed Ibraheem Khan and Sirdar Mahommed Takee Khan. We received letters from the Governor-General, General StolietefF, at the station named " Ser Cheshmeh." Stolieteff, who was with the Emperor at Livadia, having written to us as follows : — " The Emperor considers you as a brother, aind you also, who are on the other side of the water (i.e., the Oxus), must display the same sense of friendship and brotherhood. " The English Government is anxious to come to terms with you through the intervention of the Sultan, and wishes you to take his advice and counsel; but the Emperor's desire is that you should not admit the English into your country, and, like last year, you are to treat them with deceit and deception, until the present cold season passes away ; then the Almighty's Will will be made manifest to you, that is to say, the (Russian) Government having repeated the ' Besmillah ' will come to your assistance. " In short, you are to rest assured that affairs will end well. If God permits, we will convene a Government meeting at~ St. Petersburgh, that is to say, a ' Con- gress,' which means an assembly of Powers. We will then open an official discus- sion with the English Government, and, either by force of words and diplomatic action, we will entirely cut off all English communication and interference with Afghanistan for ever, or else events will end in a mighty and important war. By the help of God, by spring, not a symptom or a vestige of trouble and disaffection will remain in Afghanistan." It therefore behoves our well-wishing servants to conduct the affairs intrusted to them in a praiseworthy and resolute manner, better than before, and having placed their hopes in God rest confident that the welfare and affairs of this glorious Government will continue on a firm footing as before, and the mischief and disaffec- tion which seems to have arisen in the country will disappear. Let it be known to the high in rank, Toolimsheer Bahadur and Hafazullah Khan, Secretary to the Sepah Salar-e-Azem, that, thanks to God, the trouble we have been taking for a series of years in instructing and improving the officers of our victorious. regiments has not been lost, and in fighting the English troops they displayed the same bravery as the forces of civilized nations. Not one of our victorious men went to heaven until he had himself slain three of the enemy ; in short they fought in such a way, and made such a stand, that both high and low praised them. We are fully confident that our victorious troops, whenever they may fight, will defeat the enemy. The Herat army is also noted for its bravery and discipline, a result of your devoted services. You will convey our Royal satisfaction to all the troops and inhabitants of Herat, high and low, and tell them that our hope is that God and His Prophet may be as satisfied with them as we are. 1127] I 2 60 No. 58. Mr. R, Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— (Received April 7.) Mv Lord Tehran, February 25, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copies of the Reports which I have received from Herat and from the Meshed Agent. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 58. Letter received from Herat. (Translation.) February 2, 1879. A MESSENGER lately arrived from Cabul, and I learn that when Ameer Shere Ali Khan found that Cabul and Candahar would be taken, he released Sirdar Mahommed Yakoub Khan from prison, and himself fled into Turkestan with 6,000 followers. He has lost all hopes in Russia, as she will not help him in any way. He is said to be now at Mezar-e-Shereef, but it is also rumoured that he and his family have come to Maimaneh. After his departure from Cabul, the inhabitants were in a state of great alarm, Two-thirds of them took their families and valuables to the quarter of the town occupied by the Jevan Shar tribe. Sirdar Mahommed Yakoub Khan, seeing no one had any consideration for him, also fled towards Turkestan, whilst others say that the Kizil Bashes of Cabul delivered him up to the British authorities. Respecting Candahar, there was only Sirdar Meer Afzul Khan with two battalions in the city. These were joined by 3,000 volunteers from the neigh- bouring villages. They marched five or six farsakhs out of Candahar, but neither dared to give battle nor retreat. At last the English officers sent word to them, asking them to advance and fight or else disperse ; if they did the latter they would receive money if they were in want of it. The forces, therefore, fled without firing a shot, and the English troops took Candahar without any resistance. There is a rumour that two companies of English troops have started for Herat and have reached Girishk. The Ameer is said to be at Maimaneh, but should there be any. disturbance in Turkestan he will proceed to Herat. The present force at Herat consists of twelve Cabulee regiments, each one being 600 strong, which is 7,000 men, and five Herat regiments, each 600 strong, which makes altogether 10,000 men. There are also 4,000 horse, according to the muster- roll, but if wanted on active service, there will not be more than 2,000 men ready equipped. They have besides fifty-four guns, which are divided into nine batteries. The horses and equipments are complete. There is six months' ammunition ready, and the authorities may have sufficient cash to give the troops two months' pay and provisions, with fodder to last them and the cavalry for three months. Two things are, however, required : first, a capable commander, whom this force will obey ; and, secondly ( confidence), for there is not at the present moment a single soldier, either from Cabul, Candahar, or Herat, who cares for the rule of Ameer Shere Ali Khan, or will stand and fight for him. Two ressalas of the fugitive troops of Candahar have arrived here quite worn out. The family and children of Safdar Ali Khan, with that of Sultan Mahommed Khan, the ex-Vizier of Candahar, will arrive here to-morrow or the day after. None of the chief men remain at Candahar. The Afghan merchants residing here have dispatched a cassid by the Hazareh country to Cabul to bring them news of what is passing there. ♦ 61 Inclosure 2 in No. 58. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) February 8, 1879. THE Hishraet-ul-Mulk is engaged in repairing the Bund of the Helmund which was carried away last spring; after completing it he will return to Beerjand. Intelligence has been received here that the Akhal Turkomans attacked the Russian camp near the Caspian shore and carried off 400 camels, but about ten of them were killed and wounded by the Russian guns. Five days ago it was announced from Derehgez that 6,000 Merv horse and foot have come as far as Kaul-i-T?5Jen with the intention of making a raid upon Derehgez. The same intelligence was received three days ago from Khelat. The said Turkomans are commanded by Noor Verdu Khan. The Prince Governor has dispatched orders to the Shooja-ud-Dowleh to have his troops ready so as to march immediately on receipt of further intelligCfnee from the Governor of Derehgez. The Itimad-es-Saltaneh arrived, here yesterday, having dismissed the troops be had, taken with him to their homes, but he brought the two guns back to IVIeshed. 400 Shah-sevan horse were yesterday sent to Jam. No. 59. , , Mfi R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. -^{Received April 7.) My Lord, Tehran, February 25^ 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of a letter received yesterday from Asterabad, wherein is narrated that the Russians are endeavouring by all means to make friends with the Teke Turkomans. I n3»v© &c (Signed) ' RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure in Ko. 59. Letter received from Asterabad. (Translation.) February 24, 1879, . > THE Russians are endeavouring to make friends with the Tek6 Tu!rkoraiaiis by every possible means. They have recently dispatched several agents amongst them, and have also instructed the Khan of Khiva to do so too. I hear he has; done so. He has also promised a fief and other things to the son of Kousheed Khan. Their object is to try every stratagem in conciliating the Turkoman tribes before having recourse to hostilities, and thus woi-k thei r way to Afghanistan. Anieer Shere Ali Khan has also sent agents amongst the T6ke tribes with the same object. He has fled into the Kohistan, and sent word to St. Petersburgh that he is ready to serve their cause. He has no doubt that he brought the T6k6s over to the Russian side. Should the Tekes give way before the promises held out to them, well and good ; otherwise the Russians will resort to hostile measures. At present they are engaged in collecting ammunition, provisions, and cattle and camels at Chat. They have also sent agents amongst the Yemoot and Goklan tribes ta ascertain whether they are on friendly terms or not, and have sent word that if the said tribes should act contrary to their (the Russian) wishes, they will be the first to be annihilated. Everything will be known by the 2Ist March. 62 No. 60. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury.— (Received April 10.) My Lord Resht, March 11, 1S79. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, a copy of my despatch of this day's date, addressed to Her Majesty's Charg^ d'AEfaires at Tehran, relative to the expedition of a Russian force of .30,000 men from the shores of the Caspian to Merv, under the command of Generals Lazareff and Llamakin. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHURCHH.L. Inclosure in No. 60. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. (Extract.) Resht, March 11, 1879. ' I SENT you to-day the following telegram : — " It is quite true that 10,000 men under General Llamakin, and 20,000 men under General Lazareff, are preparing to march from Tchekishlar and Krasno- vodsk respectively on Merv." These two divisions are to meet somewhere between the coast of the Caspian and their destination, at Kizil Arvat, F presume, and then will conjointly proceed to Merv along the foot of the mountain range inhabited by Akhal T6ke Turkomans, a country which, according to Colonel Valentine Baker's map, is studded with villages as far as Tejend. The Krasnovodsk division will probably march direct on Kizil Arvat, while the column under General Llamakin will ascend the Atrek. The distance from the starting points on the coast to Kizil Arvat is, as the crow flies, 150 miles; from that fort to Merv the intervening ground is about 300 miles. Most likely stations will be formed along the line of march, where troops will be left to secure communication with the rear, either by way of Krasnovodsk or by the Atrek ; this will depend upon the disposition of the "Turkomans who occupy the intervening ground. 10,000 camels have been requisitioned of the Yamoot Turkomans, whose grazing ground is closest to the sea-board, but these will scarcely go beyond Kizil Arvat unless compelled to do so. The division under General Lazareff) together with all its impedimenta, was expected to be collected at Bakou by the end of this month, and preparations were being made for its immediate conveyance across the Caspian. Military stores and provisions were already being sent over. I do not profess to know anything of the line of march that these columns propose to take to get to Merv, but marching at the rate of fifteen miles a-day, with a day's rest here and there, they cannot be expected to reach Merv before the middle or even the latter end of May. In that season of the year the country will afford both water and forage in plenty, and the plains surrounding the town of Merv appear, according to travellers who have visited the place, to abound in agricultural produce of every description. No. 61. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury. -^{Received April 28.) My Lord, Resht, April 3, 1879. I HEAR from good authority that General Lazareff arrived at Bakou on the 24th ultimo, and proposed crossing to Krasnovodsk on the 1st instant. It appears that he is not prepared to make any serious advance before the month of June. This would almost look as if the whole expedition had been put off. I have &c. (Signed) ' HY. A, CHURCHILL. 63 No. 62. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received April 28.) My Lord, St. Peter shurgh, April 20, 1879. I H AVlG the honour to forward, for your Lordship's information, two interesting translations made by Mr. Michel! : one from the- " Novoe Vremyia," containing a sketch of that newspaper's view of Russia's duties and obligations with respect to the Turkoman steppe ; and the other giving the official account of a recent disturbance that broke out among the Don Cossacks at Rostov. I have, &c. • (Signed) DUFFERIN. Tnclosure 1 in No. 62. Extract from the "Novoe Vremyia" of April -j^, 1879. (Translation.) Russian Expedition to the Turkoman Steppe. — The "Novoe Vremyia" of the i\th April contains the following article on the rumoured impending Russian expedition to Merv : — " The Turkomans have become imbued with the idea that Russia is powerless against them. The unsuccessful issue of our last year's campaign against the Turko- mans at Kizil Arvat still more confirmed these semi-barbarous nomads in the belief that they might with impunity refuse to comply with the most legitimate demands of Russia. Of all the Turkoman tribes the Akhal Teke and the inhabitants of Merv are the roost hostile towards us. " The news of the equipment of a considerable detachment intended for the Turkoman steppe greatly alarmed the EngMsh, who considered that the secret object of the expedition was the occupation of Merv. The English press unanimously advocated the necessity of directing special attention to our intentions. Even English statesmen expressed their fear that Russia would seize Merv, in recupera- tion for the acquisitions made by the Indian Government in Afghanistan. At, the present time public opinion in England has become calmer, especially now that it appears Russia has no intention of making a conquest of Merv. "Seriously speaking, an advance on Merv at the present nioment would, to say the least, be inopportune. " General Lazareff *s detachment, by quitting the Trans*Caspian region and subduing the Akhal Tekd 'Turkomans, will benefit us immeasurably more than by merely traversing the steppe and occupying the capital of the Merv 'Turkomans. In the first case, we will be able to establish ourselves firmly in the steppes of the Akhal T^ke, and to secure our caravan route from Krasnovodsk to Khiva ; in the second case^ we would certainly produce a great impression in Central Asia, bnt would at the same time be compelled to concentrate our forces for a long time, and even to suffer great losses in order to retain possession of the occupied point. " We are separated from Merv by hundreds of versts of Akhal Tekd and Merv steppes, entirely unknown to us, and where we do not possess any fortified positions. Along the whole distance between Merv and the Trans-Caspian region we would be constantly subjected to attacks from the hostile Turkomans. " It cannot be doubted that Russia, refraining from an expedition against Merv, is actuated not only by political, but also by strategic and economic considerations. Sooner or later we will, of course, be compelled to send a detachment to Merv, but there is no need to precipitate the event, and the interests of Russia render it necessary for lier to appi-oach this object, without subjecting herself to unnecessary losses. •' In one case only will if become necessary for us to undertake decisive measures in regard to Merv without reference to the sacrifices involved — that is, when the Indian Government exhibits an intention to occupy Herat, wliicli constitutes the principal centre of Central Asia. "Russia must then anticipate England, and in sucli case Merv represents the most convenient point for securing Herat from the aggressive tendencies of Great Britain. But the recent reverses met with by the English in Afghanistan afford ground for presuming that Russia will not be forced to take such a decisive step." 64 Inclosure 2 in No. 62. Extract from, the " Official Gazette" of April iV. 1879- (Translation.) , , . , r ti Official Communication. — A disturbance took place in the town ol Kosloff on Ihe Don on the ^^ instant at about G p.m. From intelligence received from tlio Governor of Ekaterinoslav, who proceeded to Rostoff, and from other officials, it appears that the riot assumed such wide proportions that the local police force was inadequate, and it became necessary to resort" to a force of regular troops. 160 Cossacks, and a company of soldiers from Taganrog, together with the local police, succeeded in quelling the riot, so that by 4 a.m. on the i|[|| instant order was restored in the town. The apartments of the Police Master, the Police Sheriff, and the Local Superin- tendent of Police were broken into, and in the two former everything was destroyed or pillaged. At the police station and at two police wards all the documents were destroyed, and a collection of articles (serving as evidence in criminal cases, &c.), was_ abstracted. Investigations were at once set on foot, and measures taken to restore order in the town and to prevent a renewal of the disturbance. On the receipt of the intelligence of the disturbance, the Minister of the Interior dispatched to Rostoff, on the -iVh April, Privy Councillor Kasagofsky, Director of tlic Department of Police. According to private and reliable accounts, the disturbance at Rostoff was of a much more serious character than the above official account would imply. It is stated that the Police Master fell a victim to the fury of the populace ; that two regiments of regular troops were summoned to quell the disturbance ; and that these troops were ■ withdrawn from the scene of riot by the commanding officer owing to their evident reluctance to attack the rioters, who, it is said, had not, on the -j^th instant, been subdued. (Signed) JOHN MICH ELL. No. 63. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received April 29.) (Extract.) Tehran, March 13, 1879. IN answer to my request to let me have early news of any movement of Russian troops across the Caspian, Mr. Churchill yesterday telegraphed to me in Persian that 20,000 men, under General Lazareff, from Krasnovodsk, and 10,000 men, commanded by General Llamakin, who will start from Chekishler, are making preparations to marcji towards Merv. It appears to me that the numbers stated must be somewhat exaggerated, as, putting aside the fact that it would be difficult to keep the matter secret, time has not allowed, nor do the preparations made for the provisioning of such a force seem to have been sufficient, nor even is the means of transport adequate for their having been already dispatched. No. 64. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.'— {Received April 29.) My Lord, Tehran, March 13, 1879.. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of a Report received by me from the Asterabad Agent, dated the 24tli February last. > i I have &c. (Signed) ' RONALD F. THOMSON. • 65 Inclosure in No. 64. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson, (Translation.) (Extract.) February 24, 1879. SOME days ago several of the Goklan Chiefs came here, bringing a considerable quantity of fat for sale. They reported that a few days ago they were in a Turkoman encampment near Chat when they heard a firing of cannon ; asking the reason, they were informed that a large body of Cossacks had arrived at the camp at Chat from the frontiers of Khiva. The Russians are collecting great quantities of provisions and cattle at Chat and Chekishler ; they, however, do not possess many camels, and it would appear from this that they do not intend moving in any direction at present. It is said that thirty regiments of infantry will shortly be landed (from Russia). No. 65. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received April 29.) My Lord, . Tehran, March 13, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith copies of three reports received by me from the Meshed Agent, dated on the 22nd of last month and the 2nd March, giving news from Herat. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 65. TJie Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) February 22, 1879. RESPECTING the present troops, who are at Herat, I believe that if Cabul yields either to peaceful measures or assault, all the Candahar and Cabul regiments will escape from Herat to Cabul, part to serve and the rest to free themselves. This flight will be a great blow to Ameer Shere Ali Khan. The inhabitants will also lose all faith in him. Inclosure 2 in No. 65. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) February 22, 1879. FIVE days ago a cassid came in from Herat to the merchants, but no one had dared to send any news by him; he reported tliat all communication between Herat and Candahar is stopped, but that means of communication with Cabul and Meimaneh are maintained for Ameer Siiere Ali Khan by his orders, and that the day he left a special messenger was dispatched to Cabul by the .local authorities with letters. The cassid also added that the Cabul and Candahar soldiers were openly selling their property, accoutrements, &c., in the bazaars of Herat, and had become very disorderly, but their Commander-in-chief dared not even reprimand them. It was said that the Ameer was coming to Herat, and that the British troops would then advance and besiege the city. Great alarm existed amongst the inhabitants, and horsemen have been placed on the Candahar road to shoot any deserter from Herat. Great quantities of grain have been collected both in the citadel and in the town. It is rumoured that a considerable caravan coming from Balkh and Bokhara to Cabul and Peshawur has been plundered at the instigation of the Ameer. The Itimad-es-Sultaneh leaves Meshed for Tehran -with his regiment. The Kerman regiment also follows. The report that Eyub Khan had put General Fakeer Mahomraed Khan to death was premature. [127] K 66 Inclosure 3 in No. 65, The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) March 2, 1879. YESTERDAY a native of Kohistan arrived here. He had no news of Ameer Shere Ali Khan's arrival at Herat. He stated that about 300 horsemen had been sent as far as Mohsen Abad by the Herat authorities to meet Eyub Khan. On his arrival at Ghorian a considerable number of the military, both horse and foot^ went out to meet him. When he arrives at Herat some mischief will be sure to happen, bfecause of his secret aversion to the Herat authorities. The Meshed authorities are engaged in reviewing the forces now present with a view of getting the present Commander-in-chief into disgrace. I hear that the son of Kousheed Khan has dispatched several Elders of Shoora Khan, with a message that he was ready to serve the Russian Government instead of the Persian ; that great numbers of camels are being brought from the other side of the Oxus. It is also stated that some marauding Turkomans attacked two (Russian) boats coming up the Oxus and compelled them to fall back ; that the King of Bokhara has returned to his capital and dispatched two regiments to Chehar Jang to guard the frontier, but there is a rumour that his intention is to send them against the Arsaree tribe ; that he has also dispatched four regiments by orders of the Russians from Keishee to Darbaz, which is in the direction of Badakhshan ; that no fresh forces have come to Samarcand, but it has been notified by telegraph that reinforcements will be sent. My informant adds that the T6k4 Turkomans, having put their trust in God, are awaiting the advance of the Russians upon them. No. 66. Mr, R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.- — {Received April 29.) J\^y Lord, Tehran, March 17, 1879. TROOPS are being sent by the Russians to the Turkoman coast as fast as they can transport them across the Caspian for a fresh invasion of Akhal. 2,000 men have ali-eady disembarked at Cliekishler as well as quantities of stores and provisions, whence the latter are bieing sent on to Chat. It is stated that camels for .transport service are being sent from Khiva. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON, No. 67. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received April 29.) ^^V^T^Urr. ,. ,. Tehran, March 21, im. 1 HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, translation of two Reports which I have received, giving news from Afghanistan. I have, &c. (Sighed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure I in No. 67. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) ^ Marc^ 8, 1879. MVE or SIX days ago a -small caravan came in from Herat. The Afghan merchants who accompanied it told me that they had seen the Ameer at Balkh, who expressed hie conmtion at having taken the advice of the Russians, ahd at having gone to take refuge with them. ® Bey Murad Khan has dispatched atoont fifty agricultuftsts to Serrekhs. The Shooja-ed-Dowleh, the Governor of Koochan, has promised tlfe Prince , • 67 Governor that he will take steps to reassure Dowlet Murad Khan (as to his safety), and thus induce him to return to Koochan. His brother, who was under arrest, has also been sent frori), Meshed to Kppchaii. The authorities at Meshed are waiting to learn what will be the result of Sirdar Eyub Khan'^ prppeeding to Herat. Hadji I§wail aijd his son, Persiap. nfiercl^^nts, owe the, §um of 8,000 toman^ to the merchants of Peslian aud Candahar, aiid nowr that affairs; iu Afghanistan ar^ jij a statp, of confusion he (the detitor) pretend^ that he is a bankrupt, The aforesaid merchants ar^ pontinually at my house and claim British protection, saying that sinpe Canjlanar has been taken they are entitled to British protection, and insist on my recovering tlieir claims. Please send me instructions on the subject. Inclosure 2 in No. 67. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) Febn^ary 21, 1879. FIVE days ago Ameer Shere Ali Khan's nephew, who was the Governor of Zameen Daver, near Gandahar^ arrived here with the sons of several of the Sirdars, sopie officers, and three ressalas of horse, consisting of 1,200 men. The Sirdar was lodged in the city, with those who had accompanied him, whilst the horsemen were quartered outside. Amongst tiie officers is one who was in the late fight with the Britiph troops near Candahar, ' with the aforesaid ressalas, when the Afghans were defeated and. fled to Herat. , He informed me that after that fight an officer named Sandeman came with a body of troops and took possession of Candahar, and that he encamped outside the city near the Edgah Gate ; that he afterwards came with |;wo ressala? oF horse as far as Girishjc and the fort of Neest, which is now in a ruined state, and on the other sjde of the Helmund, on the road to Seistan. The said officer intends repairing the place, and ffom there he v|sited Zaipeen Daver. The City of Candahar is quite tranq{iil, and the inhabitants quiet. , ' As regards Cabul, more than a month has elapsed since the Government messengei* came from there, so that all the rumours afloat, are me£g. siKffiises on the part of the public. I have, however, been informed that Sirdar Yafcoub Khan has asked for a delay of a few months from the English authorities, whilst others stated that he intends fighting. He has from ten to fifteen, thousand men, but he dares not either come to give battle or even tq fly away, for everyone is against this family. The roads to paridahar and Hezapph ^xo blocked ijp, eind no one d^yps to trj^v^l on those road^. The Herat authorities have sent a man to Cabul to bring news, but he has ^ot yet returned. The Ameer is at Mezar Shereef, and it i^ said thai; two Russian officer^ are with him also ; I presume this tq be true. For the last two or three days there has been a rumour that Sirdar Mahomn^ed Ibrahim Khan, the Ameer's ^on, is bringing a thousand, camels Iqad^d with grain |q H^rat. No fresh orders have been received here from the Ameer, and the authqrities are in a state of much anxiety. Sirdar Ma^iommed Eyub Khan makes his entry tq-morrow, when he will be received with much ceremony. He is to be lodged in the Chehar Bagh, the Governor's residence, Sirdar Mahommed Omar Khan and the Sepeh Salar are much alarmed at his coming. I am of opinion that, in a few days after his arrival, there will arise such discord and strife as will preclude the chance of their being any opposition made to a foreign army. [1271 K 2 G8 No. 68. Mr. R. Thomson io the Marquis of Salisbury.— {Received April 29.) Mv Lord Tehran, March 22, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, transla* tions of two letters sent me from Asterabad, reporting the landing of fresh bodies of Russian troops on the Turkoman coast, and accounts from Chekishler. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure I in No, 68. Letter from Asterabad. (Translation.) , , ^^"-'^ ]^.' 1879. FOR the last fortnight Russian troops— infantry, cavalry, and ammunition— have constantly been landed. Great quantities of provisions are also brought by every steamer. Large sums are also spent in purchasing provisions and dispatching them to Chat and Chekishler. Sixty regiments of infantry are to come, with the necessary guns and cavalry. They intend forming several encampments. Several days ago the Russians informed the Charva Turkomans that they must pay a tax of 1 rouble per camel, or else they would not be allowed to bring their camels to graze, and that they must also provide horses, cattle, and sheep. Having no option, the tribe has crossed to this (the Persian) side of the Atrek. The Russians have done this on purpose, as they want the forage of the Atrek Valley for their own use. They have also large stores of provisions at Chat. Two days ago intelligence was received that a large number of camels had been purchased at Khiva and are on the road to (Chat). The regular chief of the Khiva caravan has been summoned by the Russians, but for what it is unknown. Inclosure 2 in No. 68. ' Letter from Asterabad to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) March 7, 1879, ON the 4th instant three of the native merchants who had been (to Russia) to purchase merchandize returned here. They stated that they had seen many Russi^^ regiments proceeding to the Turkoman country ; they added that Mr. Bakouline was still at Bakou. On the 5th instant two Turkomans came from Chekishler. They reported' that people are forbidden to visit the camp. They put the whole number of officers' atid men from 1,500 to 1,600. They saw 16 guns — horse artillery — and numerous other guns, mortars, and ammunition, both in wooden sheds and outside in the open air. They say that there are great quantities of sheep and cattle, and others are con- tinually brought in from Mazanderan and the Asterabad country. They have a small quantity of grain, but the Jaafer-bai tribe have engaged to supply as much as is wanted. Mahommed Neeyaz-bai, the regular master of (Khiva) caravans, has been ordered to purchase 9,000 camels from the Kipchak Plains as they are very scarce here, and, besides those of this country, cannot stand the Balkan and Tek6 climate. On the day that these Turkomans were starting they heard the firing of gun^, and saw two steamers arrive towing several sailing ships. ' The vessels brought friesll troops, guns, and ammunition ; it was also said that four bther regiments would foUoWj and so on, until twelve regiments were landed. ' There is a dam built on the other side of the Atrek, 4 yards in height and from 2 to 5 yards broad ; this embankment runs along the river until it reaches the Goklan Mountain ; the road which branches off to Chat is also very level : a railway can, there- fore, be constructed on this embankment, and so on to Chat, very easily. In fact, the Turkomans reported that, in returning, they saw a number of Russian officers visiting the spot. • 69 There is a rumour that Ameer Shere All Khan, having gone to St. Petersburgh and asked for assistance and troops to go to Herat, Russian troops will proceed from Khiva and Bokhara to Herat ; that the troops arriving at Chekishler, if able to push their way through the T6k6 country, will also join them. Yesterday Rustem Khan arrived from Tehran with 12,000 tomans to pay the troops. No troops, however, remain ; all have deserted, but Mohussils have gone to bring them back in chains. The Russian Acting Consul has gone to Ashuradeh, No. 69. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received May 5.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, April 30, 1879. I BEG to forward to your Lordsliip certain items of information which have come to my knowledge within the last few days. I have, &c. (Signed) DUPFERIN. Inclosure in No. 69. Memorandum. FROM a good source I learn that four columns of Russian troops will soon be dispatched in the direction of Merv ; one of these columns, which will number 6,000 men, will be commanded by Prince Nicholas Dolgorouki, an officer of tried merit and experience^, and who has hitherto commanded the famous Kabardinsk regiment of infantry now stationed at Hasaf Fort in the (Caucasus; .this column is to consist of infantry^ cavalry, and artillery, : The capture of Merv is the reported object of the expedition. It is said that General LazarefFwill be in chief command of the whole expeditionary corps, a portion of which will be dispatched from the Caucasus. St. Petersburgh, April^, 1 879. No. 70. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received May 22.) My Lord, Tehran, March 29, 1819. ' I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, copies of the Reports which I have received from the Asterabad and Meshed Agents and the Hejat. , I I have, &c. ' ! (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON ' Inclosure 1 in No. 70. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) j ,,, March 3, 1S79.. NAZAR KHAN, Belooch, sent by the Herat authorities to Ameer Shere Ali Khan £|,t,^!lezar-i-Shereef, returned with letters to the effect that they were to mind and attend to their own business and not be alarmed. From this it appears that the Russian Govern- ment has given him (the Ameer) complete assurances of assistance, and has written to. Jiim to let the EngUsh advance to wheresoever they like, and that after, the 21st March the Russian troops will march and retake all the places and give them up to him. This is the assurance which keeps the Ameer's spirits up. It is Sjaid that Sirdar- Yakoub Khan has 20,000 men, who assure him that they will, fight,, but they l^aye no faith or confidence in him. : , iSverythnig is quiet and tranquil at Candahar. All the English troops are quartered in the citadel and in the town, whilst the Indian troops are lodged outside. The: 70 inhabitants ^e treated with Ifindness, and even t^e octro^ has been abdished ; a tax of 1 rupep is only exacted on entry per camel-load, whatsoever it may be." Provisions ^nd grain are dear. Two r^ssalas of British troops are at Girishk. The roads to Herat are in a very unsafe condition, and no caravans travel that way. When the cassid sent by the Herat authorities opened all the letters first, to find out what was the news, by this it is evident that they have no knowledge of iji'hat i^ passing at Cabul, Candahar, &ic. It appears that two of the original members of the Russian Mission sent to the Ameer are still with him at Mezar-i-Shereef, and that the Ameer has sent two of hi*, own officers on a mission to St. Petersburgh : one is Mirza Mahomraed Hassan, Moonshee, and the other Sirdar Shere Ali Khan, of Candahar ; but the result of their mission is not yet known. Four days ago Sirdar Eyoub Khan arrived at Herat. He was received with much ceremony. All the military, horse and foot, the artillery, the Herat authorities, together with the chief men, went out to meet him as far as Sak-i-Salman. He has been lodged in the Chehar Bagh, whilst his followers are quartered in the town. He himself wished to go and live in the citadel, but the Sepeh Salar would not agree to it, saying that he could not give up the place without special orders from the Ameer. In fact, the day that the Sirdar entered Herat, the Sepeh Salar placed a regimeht at the entry of the citadel, to prevent the Sirdar by force should he attempt to enter the place. At present the inhabitants are suffering a great deal from exaction and injustice, their houses are forcibly given to the soldiery by the Herat authorities to live in, whilst ■ they and their families are turned adrift. Every day matters get worse. Inclosure. 2 in No. 70. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) Marchl6, 1879. THREE days ago a cossid came in from Herat. He informed me that for the last' four months the Herat troops have received no pay nor rations, that the daily expenses of Sirdar Eyoub Khan amount to 50 tomans, and this is a burden under the present j straitened circumstances of the people of Herat, and the Herat authorities have also drawn upon each village 21 tomans, being the price of three kharwars of grain, on account of next year's revenue. Several of the Bakhshee tribe have applied for permission to come and cultivate a place near Moozdooran. The Prince Governor seems disposed to grant them permission. These people cultivated the fields of Serrekhs very well last year, but as Abbass Khan, the Governbr of that place, was opposed to them, and got people from Taj Sirdar and the Seejmaz tribe to come and cultivate this year, the Bakhshee people have applied for this new place, which is 70 farsakhs nearer. The four persons deputed by the son of Kousheed Khan to proceed to Shoora Khan and tender his submission to the Russians have been informed that, if their master is sincere in his statements, he is first to get the Russians released from captivity amongst the Merv Turkomans, or else we (the Russians) will remain their enemies. Inclosure 3 in No. 70. The Asterdbad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) j^arch 17, 1879. THE result of a census made by the population of this province is that it amounts to 40,197 souls. I am informed that two regiments of infantry, each one consisting of 1,000 men, have landed at Chekishler, with 4 Generals, and 20 more regiments are coming commanded by General LazarefF; that a number of filters have also been brought; that there is a great quantity of provisions stored at Chekishler, and that the Russians intend erecting a fort there, I have learnt that a steamer recently arrived at Chekishler, laden with waggons, and that about 200 strong and big horses have been brought from Khiva. Great quantities of wood are being now taken from the port of Gez to Chekishler and Krasnovodsk. • 71 Great ni,imber of qamels haviijig; been purchased by the people of the Caiicasus from amongst the Yemoot tribes and taken away to the Caucasus, the Russians have placed an interdict on the export. Certain native merchants, who have recently returned from Russia, report that the Russian General at Chat was said to be laid up by a very severe pain in his foot, and that a General, who is an Armenian by birth, has volunteered to command the expedition against the Tik6 Turkomans without the assistance of General Llamakip. On Monday news was received that the Prince Governor had gone "against the Poukuz Turkomans; but they, hearing of his advance, came out and met him, with Korans, beseeching him to forgive them, saying that they would pay their taxes ahd deliver up all the Persian captives amongst them, to which terms the Prince agreed. No. 71. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. •'^(Received May 22.) MyJiOrd, ... _ , Tehran, April 2, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, translation of the Reports which I have received from Herat and the Meshed Agent. I have, &c. (Signed) EONALD P. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 71. Letter, from Herat. (Translation.) ^ March 16^ 1819:- TWO days ago the authorities summoned all the inhabitants of the town to the chief mosque, when the proper official announced from the pulpit that the son of the late Ameer Shere Ali Khan,. Mahommed Yakoub Khan, had become Ameer (of Afghanistan), and that the chief Sirdar, Sirdar Eyoub Khan, had been made Governor of Heji^at.^ , „ , Everyone accepted them, and the first person to congratulate the Sirdar was th6 Sepeh Salai?, who was followed by Sirdar Mahommed Omar Khan, the chief meh, and the population. The Sirdar then proceeded to the Chghar Baghy ^here he received visits. From there he went to the new citadel, where all the troops cartie and teiidered their congratulations, when a salute of 101 guns was fired. Four days ago the Sirdar dispatched two., men to Cabul to congratulate Ameer Mahommed Yakoub Khaiii and two others to , Turkestan to his son Sirdar Moassa Khan^ the Heir Apparent, with the same object. It is, said that, the Afghan authorities have sfiht away the two or three Ritssian ofScers of the mission to the late Ameer, and have dispatched horsemen to cdnvey th(n3 over the Amu Daria. Inclosure 2 in No. 71. The Meshed Agent to Mh R: ThomsM. (Trangl3,tion,) , , - ,- -^ ■Mg.rchMs.Wi^. TWO' days ago the son df Youssouf Khan, of Hez'areh, wrote from Jam to the Musteshar-ul-Mulk, saying that the people of Herat had gone into the usual mourning for Ameer Shere Ali Khan, and that "everyone had acknowledged Sirdar Eyoub Khan to be the new Governor. To-day two of Sirdar Eyoub Khan's servants came in with 400 tomans to purchase cloth, %^, and to.pay part,.o.f.,iis„debts..- They reported the jappointment o£ Sirdar Eyoub BLhan as Governor of Herat, and the dismissal of Sirdar Mahommed Omar Khan ; that General Fakeer Ahmed Khan is the Vizier, and the Sepeh Salar returns to his old post ; that Sirdar Eyoub Khan has granted to the inhabitants the remission of one year's revenue ; this, however, requires confirmation. The Prince Governor has granted permission to the Bakhshee cultivators to cultivate the fields near Moozderan. 72 The Governor of Koochan having learnt that the Akhal Turkomans have brought their flocks to the moimtains in the vicinity of Koochan, has gone to make a raid. No. 72. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— -{Received May 22.) My Lord, Tehran, April 5, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of a letter from the Asterabad Agent, in which he reports that the small Russian detachment left during the winter at Chat had been relieved and brought back in waggons to Cliekishler. He describes them as suflfering severely from sickness, and in another letter received from a private Persian correspondent, this sickness is described as one hitherto unknown amongst the native population. From the symptoms he mentions it is evident that the disease in question is scurvy, brought on by bad and insufficient nourishment. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD P. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 72. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) March 24, 1879. TWO days ago Yar Mahommed Khan, the Eelkhauee, who had gone to collect the taxes of the Goklan tribe, wrote a letter to the Prince Governor complaining that the Russian military authorities are interfering in the district of Karee Kaleh, and are bringing pressure upon the inhabitants with a view to oblige them to submit (to Russian rule). I am told that fresh troops have been sent to Chat to relieve those there previously who were aU brought back in waggons, and sent away to either Ashuradeh or Russia, as they are all sick. The Russians have no camels at Chekishler ; all they possess are at Chat, and all the transport is done by waggons. They have four guns of horse artillery at Chekishler, six at Chat, and the Turko- mans report that they have six at Krasnovodsk. The four Generals said to have arrived have not yet come to Chat, but they may be at Krasnovodsk. The Russian authorities propose to give contracts oflering a certain amount of cash in advance, for which they will require a bond, stipulating that the contractor will provide 100 oxen and 300 sheep per diem wheresoever the camp may be. Mahommed Khan, Ponook, a Turkoman Chief, with seven others, accepted this arrangement, but later they gave it up, as it was a very difficult task. ■> About 600 families of the Jaafer-bai Turkomans, living at Hussein Koolee, at the mouth of the Atrek, and 800 of the Oghoorchetee tribe of Gumesh Tuppeh, at the mouth of the Goorgan, are continually engaged in buying up provisions among them- selves, and from Mazanderan and Asterabad more especially cattle and sheep, and taking them to the Russians. Volunteer horsemen have also gone over from the Turko- mans, and the Russians having taken them into service pay them 5 tomans per mensem, vnXh. an allowance of tea and sugar per diem. There is no news of the agents sent a second time to purchase horses and camels. 73 No. 73. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received May 22.) My Lord, Tehran, April 5, 1879. I HAVE the honour to report to your Lordship, that I have heard of no more Russian troops having been landed on the Turkoman coast, but that supplies are being collected. One part of the troops which had been previously landed was immediately dispatched to relieve the garrison of Chat. AH the troops from that place were seriously suffering from scurvy, and had to be brought back in waggons. I have, &c. ♦(Signed) EONALD F. THOMSON. No. 74 Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received May 22.) (Extract.) Tehran, April 12, 1819. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith a letter from Herat. Inclosure in No. 74. . , Letter received from Herat. (Translation.) March 17, 1879. TO-DAY Eyonb Khan, accompanied by the Sepeh Salar and General Fakeer Ahmed Khan, went to the military camp outside the town to pay the troops. These had already ' received seven months' pay, and had to receive another four months', as the authorities only^ pay their troops elciven out of the twelve. The Sirdar intended giving the troops a month's pay, but they immediately rose up against him and the Sepeh Salar, attacking them with stones. General Fakeer Ahmed Khan quieted the troops, or else they would have killed the Sepeh Salar. Sirdar Eyoub Khan, however, contrived his escape. He took refuge with one of the Sunnee Mujta- heds,andf was brought back to the town dtiring the night, when he was dismissed and imprisoned. In future such event? will be of daily occurrence. The Government of Sirdar Eyoub Khan is in the greatest state of confusion, as all the authorities are against each other. ' No news has yet been received from Cabul, and yet such is the state of affairs at Herat. No. 75. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received May 22.) My Lord, Tehran, April 13, 1879. I HAVE the hbnour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, transla- tion of the Report which I have received from the Asterabad Agent. I have, &c. (Signed) EONALD P. THOMSON. Inclosure in No, 75. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) April 1, 1879. ON Saturday I received the following inteUigence : — For some time past a disease has appeared amongst the former garrison of Chat, , in which their mouths get sore and watery, whilst the gums shrivel up. Great numbers ' have died, and the survivors are brought in detachments to Chekishler in waggons< [127] L 74 Great terror has (in consequence) seized the 'ft'oops, so much so that the General and his officers have lost all presence of mind. The bmldings which. had been begun have not been ton'ched ^rice. Thfe disease is "coAtalfe^, "and considel-ed a kind of s}*phllis. Thei^ ate not more than 500 foot soldiers at Chekishler, and these are enflkkfed m storing ^rdvislons, making- roads, &c. Abotft sev^ty shoi)s have been, opened-, In Whicli all kind of ^ufis, stores, '&c., tcre -sold The Jaafer-bai tribe, male and female, are occupied in making all kmd of pnt^SSI^a in provisions, &c., and bringing them for s^te to the Rtissians: Ekch pel-soil makes about 5 krans profit peV diehi. v^ i About 300 Yemoot famiKes are stationed at UhaTkan, aid Wre'6i4|'agfed'in exltrWdi(| naphtha and alum. 100 of th'6 men have taken service with the' Russians as match- lockVrtdi. There is no fresh news from Krasnovodsk, except, that, the .Qld_.jeJtt^ lias been changed by carrying it about 600 yards into the sea, and from thence 200 yards of wood- work has been ordered, so that the steamfers cfch come alongside it now. They have also brought a machine, by which the sea-water is boiled and rendered drinkable (i.e.-, the 'sea-wate'r is distilled). Ml the wood which is 5e3ffpo>t*te(i fe-om the port of Gez is for burning under this distilling apparatus. Mr. R. Thomson to the Mar^iiis bf SUlisbilhj. — {Received May 22.) (Extract.^ TeKran, April 19, 1879. I IM-VE the honour to forward herewith translation of a Report w'hich 1 MVfe received frdm ^ ASf^abSd Agent, In w'hich hfe mentions that General Lazaiffell'Mfas said t6 Tie at Balca. Iflclosurelo. 5^0. 7'6. The Asier'SM AyeHt't'o Mr. R. THcirhsbn. "(Ti^nslation.) '(Ektragt.) ^ %n77-, 187^: ' IRPJ is no fresh news except that General Lazareff is to arrive sodti in %k I pMns -wlti fr^sh trootife'; 'HiTact, it is "said th'attlie is alre'adt ^%^&vi,hxA I therp: Titfkom&npM 'att not able to confiVm tMfe. The disease already reported still prevails at Chat. '" ''- _, Thfe Noor ATi rakfdr-M tribe are oT'fipiiiion fhat ^KM«i faikn, Beg JM *ha^' and Nazar Taaneh, who have gone to Tehran to solicit the release of Kaleej KhaA', W themsely.es also be kept^ there^.^and„have, therefore, ^begui; their marauding- habits., Kaldu Khan's son is only waiting for the arrival of his father to go over to the Russians; both father and son are of great service to the Russians, and are much appreciated by them. Yar Malbffith'ed 'Khan,>tbe Governor of Boojrio6M, is at >^'oklkn sg-oUecting the taxes* No. 77. lyrr. R. ^omson to the Marquis of Salisbury.— {Received May 22.) ^^V^u'AArr. T- . V, . . Tehran, April 19,1^'!^' 1 HAVE the honour to inclose hereWifh translation of a Report which I have received from the Agent at Meshed on -the subject of the state of affairs at Herat. , . naye, &c. (Signed) RONALD T. • 75 Inolosvufe in ISto. 17/. The M^shfid Agmt to Mr. R. Thomson. (Tra?Q:sl?ition.) April 5, 181%. liAsT '^efik the Pfince Governor of Asterabad wrote to Suleiman Khan that 1;hree ^u^ssiai^ regiments had arrived at Chekishler, and 20 other regiments are to foilow. IVfeerza Mahomnied Husseir^, Mmtowfee of Herat, has addressed letters of con- gratit](a,tion to Sii;dar Malilon■^med Eyoub Ehan, £^nd also sent an Arab horse which the Sirdar very much wished to possess whilst he. was at Meshed. The Meerza got it as a present from the owner. I received the following letter, 4^ted the l5thMarcl^ from Herat, the cossid having been d,elayed sixteen days 6u the rpadoy illness whilst returning from there. "Some ^ve or six days since Meer Alam Khan, Moo^ishee tp Sirdar Mahommed Eyoub Khan, who haid remained behind at M;eshed, arrived here ; I was informed by a trustworthy person that l\e had brought a dia,^;y of Qpws from Meshed, in which it was stated that the RusSia.n G^overnmpnt ha,d agreed upon tliree things for Afghanistan : ' ' " I . To assist Ameer Sher^ All l^h^n with a lakh and 20,000 men. "2!. To send a very rich merchant wherever Ameer ' Shere Ali' Khan might be resj^irijg to ppen trade, aijid to supply the Ameer with ?iny amount of money he might reqyireV " 3. Four Russian pfficers to each regiment qf the Ameer. " "iNNfo pr t];iree days ago, several of the wounded and defeated horsemen from C^ndal^ar came in on fppt. 'They affirmed that Sirdai* Mahommed Yakoub Khan had fo^ight ty^o battle? with the English troops ijiear Jellalabad, in which tvfo lipted Chiefs were killed, oue Taj Mahoi^med Khar\, so^ of Sirdar Yahia Khan, Popelzai, and the other, Saheb K^an, pliTljai, Chief of Zanieri Daver. ' They also stated tk&t one pf the j^ill tribes of ^<^y 28, 1879. I HAVE the honour to transmit, herewith inclosed, for your Lordship's informa- tion, copy of my despatch of tliis day's date, addressed to Her Majesty's Charge d'Affaires at Tehran, relative to the concentration of Russian troops on the east shore of the Caspian. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHUROHIIiL. Inclosure in No. 89. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Resht, May 28, 1879. THE Mercury and Caucasus steamer " Cesarovitch " that piassed by Enzelap last week on its way to Aschurade had on board 900 men rank and file. The " Cesarovitch" is the largest steamer belonging to that Company. A telegram recently received at Baku from Titlis is said to state that 40,000 men had left that city for Baku on their way to Turkestan, The transport of merchandise between Tiftis and Baku had been suspended, Government having monopolized all means of transport between those two cities. The value of the Russian paper money in comparison with Persian coin had suddenly, within the last few days, gone down very considerably, and for various reasons combined, amongst which the transport of military stores may be put down as a notable cause ; the price of all articles of food, such as flour, rice, meat, &c., had risen at Baku 20, and in some articles 30, per cent. The steamers from Baku, which should touch regularly at Enzelee twice a-week, pass now at times without stopping, having no merchandise on board for Persia, but being full of Russian troops proceeding to Aschurade or that neighbourhood. Four of the Mercury and Caucasus steamers have recently been chartered to convey troops across the Caspian. Trade between Enzelee and the Russian ports of the Caspian has become very slack, nor does it seem in any way to be encouraged by the Russian authorities. I report these statements, as they have been made known to me by Mussulman natives of Baku and others. Of one thing there can be no doubt, namely, the transport at the present moment of a vast number of troops from the Caucasus to the eastern'sii^e of the Caspian. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHUEOHILL. No. 90. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received June 23.) My Lord, st. Petersburgh, June 18, 1879. GENERAL KAUFMANN, who left Tashkend on the ifth of last month, has arrived in St. Petersburgh. As far as I can learn, his Excellency has come here, partly in pursuance of his usual habit of visiting St. Petersburgh as frequently as possible, and partly for the purpose of being consulted as to the details of the retrocession of Kuldja to the Chinese, which has already been decided on in principle. Although no doubt General Kaufmann's experience of Central Asiatic affairs will be utilized in every way during his presence in this city, it is not believed that his visit has any direct connection with General Lazareflfs expedition against the Turkomans. ' ' 87 The last acconnts received here from Tchikischlar, dated 7th instant, announce that a strong west wind was delaying thelandmg-, that the heat was moderate, and the health of the troops §oad. General Lazareff is stated to have arrived at Tchikischlar on the lia iBsti™ • I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. P^LUNKETT. No. 91. Mr. Pbtrihett to the Marquis of SaUsiury. ■'—(Received June 23.) /• f My Lord, Bt. P'etershurgh, June 18, IS?^. I HAVE 'the honour to inclose herewith a translation by Mr. Mich ell, from the •* Tnrfcestan Gazette " of-2%thMay, g'iving the latest reports from fort Vernoe of the mUitary operations of the Chinese in Turkestan. I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKETT. Inclosure in No. 91. Substance of Article in the " Turkestan Gazette " of May ^, 1879. translation.) THE " Turkestan Gazette " of the -2%th May, 1879, in ts correspondence from Vernae, states that a scout who had returned from iKashgar, whither he had been sent by the military Chief of the Naryn fort for the ;purpose of verifying the rumours respect- ing the deatli of Lu-sho and the subsequent armed revolt of Mussulmans iuDjitishar, brought the following information, which considerably alters and supplements what has been stated in previous correspondence: — It appears, according to the information now obtained, that about four montlis ago Aldash Bek and Bakchi Bardar, the Hakim of Sarikol, had actually been at the Kishlak of Tash-Mulyk (Tash Valyk on the map), and Uitam, or Ufaly, about 5 versts from Yangishar. Aldash Bek had with him at Tash-Mulyk about 3,000 men, of vyhom 140 were Sarts of Andijan and the remainder Kipchak-Khirghiz ; moreover, t^here were 3,000 Khirghiz at Sarikol with camels. Military operations commenced by Aldash Bek detaching a band of 1,000 Khirghiz from his force and sending them, under the command of the son of Bakchi Bardar, to the town of \Hngishar, while he himself remained at Tasili-rMulyk with 2,000 men. Jn the meantime a force of Chinese cavalry numbering about 2,500 men, under the command of Yan-gy-tsi, had left the fort of Yangishar and quite unexpectedly approached the Kishlak of Tash-Mulyk, which induced Aldash Bek to fly with his band to Sarikol. Not all Aldash Bek's followers proved true to him ; 400 of his men, under the leadership of Karumshu, returned under cover of night to the Kashlak of Tash-Mulyk and went over to the Chinese, declaring to Yaurgy-tsi that they had all been £ol^cibly pressed into the band, Yan-gy-tsi at once sent these Khirghiz in pursuit of «A Idash Bek, and gave orders that the latter should be taken alive and bifought prisoner to him. In the .meantime, the son of Bakchi Bardar, who was on his way to Yangishar, on hearing from Aldash Bek of the occupation of Tash-Mulyk by the Chinese, returned to that place, and an engagement ensued, resulting in considerable losses on both sides and in the flight of the son of Bakchi Bardar with his band to Tash'*K-trr^m-; Yan-gy-tsi, who remained with the Chinese troops at Tash-Mulyk, found in that place the Papsat of Tash-Mulyk, Mahommed Kerira, who had been bound and imprisoned by Aldash Bek. The occupants of forty houses, women and children included, were slaughtered by order of Yan-gy-tsi, on the ground that they had assisted Aldash Bek, in, all about 800 $»ersons, including 100 Djigits ; the escort of Mahommed Kerim were massacred in thelCishlak of T'ash-Mulyk by the Chinese. Yan-gy-tsi with his troops then returned to the fort of Yangishar, taking with him Mahommed Kerim. When the latter was lirought before Lu-rsho-Daryn, he was asked why he hnd not iuforraed the Chinese of the arrival at Tash-Mulyk of Aldash Bek and his band. Mahommed Kerim stated in explanation that he was bound and strictly guarded by order of Aldash Bek, and was, consequently, unable to send a messenger to the fort of Yangishar ; but Ln-«ho-Daryn would not -believe this statement, and ordered Mahommed ^rim to be executed. The latter was cut .into pieces, which were thrown to the dogs. [88 At the execution were present Mahommed Khan, Hakim Bek, and Tasi Bey, a Khifghiz of the tribe of Tchumbagish, After the lapse of ei^ht days the 400 Khirghhs who had been sent to Sarikol in pursuit of Aldash Bek returned to the fort of Yangishar, bringing with them the head of Aldash Bek. Lu-sho-Daryn rewarded the leader Karmushu for this service with 2 silver yarabs, and directed the Khirghiz to disperse to their aiils and live peacefully as true Cliinese subjects. Soon after Hakim Khan-turi, "with 1 ,000 armed Sarts, arrived at Ulugtchat from Andijan, and halted there. Bakchi Bardar, hearing of his arrival, started with his band for Ulugtchat and joined Hakim Khan. The combined forces then left Ulugtchat for Bustan Terek. Lu-sho-Daryn, hearing of the appearance of a new band at Bustan Terek, collected a Chinese force" from Altyn Artysh and the fcrt of Yangishar, and, accompanied by Yan-gy-tsi, advanced on Bustan Terek. Lu-sho-Daryn, on arriving at tliat place, ordered an attack to be made on Hakim Khan's band. In this eno:agement the Sarts and Khirghiz lost 400 men killed and about 300 wounded ; the Chinese loss was 174 killed and about 100 men wounded; Chi-daloa, the Chief of the Altyn- Artysh Chinese detachment, was killed in this attack. Hakim Khan-turi, with Bakchi Bardar and his son, fled with the remnant of the band to the Alai. Lu-sho, with his troops, returned to the fort of Yangishar, where all the Chinese force, niunbering 4,000 men, was collected from the towns of Aksu Arkend and the Kishlak of Maral-bashi. In regard to the report that Maz-Hakim, the Bek of Khotan, and Lu-sho-Daryn, the Chinese Commander, had poisoned themselves, the intelligence collected confirms the news of the suicide of Maz-Hakim at the Kishlak of Kok-rabat, but refutes the report of the death of Lu-sho, who is reported to be alive, and on the point of visiting the Naryn fort. In regard to the position of affairs in the Trans- Borokhorin district, and beyond to Shiho, intelligence was received in March month from the clerk of a R,ussian merchant who was at Shiho. The clerk stated that it was only after the greatest difficulty, and by bribing a Chinese official, that he succeeded in entering Shiho. On arriving there he was permitted to remain in the town twenty days. On the expiration of that term he was ordered to leave, but he hopes to be able to remain some time yet. The Russian and Tartar merchants, according to the same authority, are badly treated at Shiho, and their departure hurried from the town. The Chinese say that Shiho is a fortress under military law, and that they, conse- quently, are not answerable for thefts and assaults of which the Russians are the victims, the more so as no Treaty exists between Russia and China respecting the right of Russians to trade in Shiho. Further, the Chinese state in extenuation that the inhabi- tants of Shiho are peaceful and conscientious, whereas the Russians are violent and exacting ; they lose a copeck and demand a rouble. The Kuldja-Shiho road is clear fi-om Dungan robbers ; but the Chinese themselves pillage the traders; the perpetration of these robberies is mostly attributed to the Chinese picquets. In conclusion, the correspondent states that on the 2nd March last the* Military Chief of Bakhtin reported that three Champans were executed at Tchuguchack for very trivial thefts. With reference to the journey to Shiho of Prince Pouliatine, who it was alleged had been entrusted with a Political Mission, the correspondent of the " Turkestan Gazett-e," in contradicting such allegation, states that Prince Pouliatitie's journey was of a purely commercial character. No. 92. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury .—{Received June 23.) ^^"V^UA^rc 1, u St.Petershurgh,June\'i,m^- 1 HAVJ^ the honour to mclose, for your Lordship's information, an interesting translation by Mr Michell from the " St. Petersburg Gazette," eiving a local appre- ciation of the probable results to Russia of the late Treaty of Peace between Great Bntam and Yakoub Khan. I also inclose an extract from the " Agence Russe," which deals with the prospecte ot Russia m Central Asia, shows the progress made by her there within the last 150 89 years, and discusses the roads by which Russian commerce can best be pushed forward m those regions. I have, &c. (Signed) E. R. PLUNKETT. Inclosure 1 in No. 92. Extract from the "St. Petersburgh Gazette" offZ't, 1879. (Translation.) VT,'^?^ "^^' Petersburgh Gazette "^f the ^f,;K, 1879, makes the following remarks with reference to the Treaty of Peace recently concluded between the English Govern- ment and Takoub Khan, and to the new political situation thereby created in Central Engli_«!h supremacy may be regarded as definitely established in Afghanistan. With : the extension ot this supremacy, the so-called neutral zone between Russian and British possessions in A=ia becomes abolished. The scientific frontier, and other similar artfiilly arranged manoeuvres, were only formalities employed in order that the fact of the occupation of Afghan territory should not attract too much attention in the eyes of Europe. _ InreaHty, however, on the conclusion of hostihties in Afghanistan, and on the introduction in that country of the new order of things, the sphere of English supremacy in Asia approaches the shores of the Oxus, Speaking frankly, and without reference to the independence of the Khanates of Bokhara and Khiva, we may say that the line of the Oxus is similarly the limit to our supremacy in the southern part of Central Asia. In this manner it is impossible any longer to ignore the fact that we stand now on banks of the Oxus face to face with the English. The abolition of the neutral zone in Central Asia we must consider as a fact of the first importance. We may safely say that it will greatly complicate our Asiatic policy. A Russian expedition to India — that bete noire which has always terrified the En3:lish — has now almost disappeared. With the new position taken up by England in Central Asia, this bogie, which the English themselves created, will cease to be feared. This does not improve our position. There is now no longer even a fantastical barrier to interfere with the realization of English commercial plans in regard to Central Asia and in the markets of the western borders of China. It is to be presumed that these / ideas will first of all find expression in the construction of a railway from Peshawur to the north. Simultaneously with the encroaching commercial movement of England in Central Asia another long meditated plan of the English will be carried out. This plan consists in cutting us off from ihe markets of Western China. In order to execute this plan the Indian Government will endeavour to extend their commercial and subsequently political influence over Kashgaria. This plan was being gradually carried into effect when Kashgaria was still in the hands of Yakoub Bek. The English follow up this plan with great persistency. Prjevalsky, when in Central Asia, and when the Chinese held possession of Kashgaria, heard that at Kuldja — which we with such readiness are ceding to , the Chinese — an English Consul (at the same time an Agent) v\ould be appointed directly the transfer was effected. We were among the persons who heard Prjevalsky relate this precis of intelligence at a meeting of the Geographical Society in the presence of its august President. We consider it unnecessary to say here that, if better times are in store for our manufacturing industry, such amelioration will only occur when we obtain Asiatic markets beyond the Turkestan region. If it happens that our products become superseded by English goods in Kashgaria, which, as may be seen ,by the information collected by Kuropatkin, predominated there prior to the introduction of Russian 'goods by the Chinese, there can be no doubt that, not only will our commerce suffer in Bokhara, but throughout the whole, of Turkestan, At the same time, we must not forget for one moment that nowhere is commerce so great a lever for the extension of political influence as in the regions of Central Asia. In the presence of such a new condition of things in Central Asia — created by the late war with Afghanistan — the question of regulating our neighbourship with the English on the Oxus, and generally our future relations with them in Asia, becomes one of immediate and extreme importance. If we allow English Agents, invested with a certain amount of authority, to reside undisturbed throughout the whole extent of Afghaijistan and to extend English influence in that country, it does not necessarily follow that English Agents may dispose themselves in a ring round the whole of [127] N 90 Turkestan, and that English influence should approach to the frontier even of Russian Siberia. Inclosure 2 in No. 92. Extract from the " Agence Russe." A Cent Cinqtjantb Ans db Distance. — On lit dans le " Golos " : — " On ne saurait assez admirer la prescience de Pierre-le-Grand en ce qui regarde les int^rets de la Russie. Dans un temps ovi nul en Europe ne songeait encore h rouvrir la route vers I'lnde par le d^troit du Caucase, ce grand g^nie saisissait I'iiupor- tance qui reside pour nous de ce c6t6. L'exp6dition de Boukhkolz vers le Turkestan attenant a la China et celle de B^kovitz-Tchekasky a Khiva, ayant pour instruction de longer TAmou-Daria jusqu'a la Mer Oaspienne indiquent assez ce plan de Pierre- le-Grand de nouer des relations commerciales avec I'Asie Oentrale par la Mer Oaspienne et le Volga, que I'illustre charpentier de Saardam avait d6ja reli6 par des canaux h la Mer Noire, a la Baltique, et la Mer Blanche. Depuis, sa campagne au Caucase, I'occupation de Derhent, de Bakou, et des provinces limitrophes de la Perse out livr4 h la Bussie la veritable route iaternationale vers I'lnde par Shakoud, K^rat, et Kandahar. La question s'est trouvee aiusi pos6e il y a 150 ans. « " Malheuxeusement, les successeurs les plus proches de Pierre-le-Grand n'ont pas compris la port^e de ce plan gigantesque. En vertu du Trait6 de Gulistansk I'lmp^ratrice j Anne Ivanovna a restitue a la Perse les provinces Oaspiennes. La Mer Oaspienne fut oubli^e, aussi bien que la route longeant les rives du Oaucause. Nous travailMm® a ouvrir une nouvelle voie par Orenbourg a travers des steppes immenses, d^pourvues d'eau, incultes, devant aboutir a la Mer d'Aral et aux sources du Syr-Daria. " Apr^s 150 ans d'efforts energiques, nous sommes enfin arrives a rAmou-Daria, c'est-a-dire a I'exp^dition de Boukhkolz. Entretemps I'Amou-Daria, en dehors des provisions scientifiques, a rompu ses digues pour se diriger I'annOe derni^re vers la Mer Oaspienne. Les hauteurs sur lesquelles se trouvent les lacs de Samarkande ont arrets le cours de TAmou-Daria et cette riviere n'a pu ainsi avancer que de 200 verstes. Oependant la preuve est faite que la pensee de Pierre-le-Grand d'amener rAmou-Daria a la Mer Oaspienne Otait une pensOe juste, pratique, facile a rOaliser avec les ressources que Ton possMe aujourd'hui. D'autre part, il est survenu en Perse un 6v0nement remarquable. " Votre voisin le Shah, apr^s deux voyages en Europe, a rOsolu d'approprier h son pays les avantages du progr^s et de la civilisation. II veut le doter d'un rOseau de chemins de fer. La premiere concession, donnO au Baron de E/Cuter, pour la con. struction d'une Kgne reliant Benderbouschid a Rescht, et devant desservirle commerce - Anglais par le Canal de Suez, cette concession, heureusement pour la Russie, n'a point abouti. La seconde concession, donate a un ingOnieur Russe, M. Ealkenliagen,! pour une Ugne de D j oulf a a Taurus, eut provoquO la construction de la ligne de Tiflis a Djoulfe, ce qui devait fermer la route de Poti h Djoulfa au commerce de transit de I'Europe avec la Perse sans aucun avantage pour le commerce Russe. En sorte que les efforts de nos compatriotes et leurs capitaux eussent 6te consacrOs au service d'intOrets 4trangers. Heureusement encore pour la Russie, cette demifere concession n'a pas eu plus de succ^s que la premiere. La troisi^me entreprise Ochut a une compagne Eran9aise pour la construction d'un chemin de fer de TOhOran a Rescht. Nous ne Savons pas encore si eUe atteindra son but, qui conduirait a relier la Perse a la nouvelle hgne projetee de Petrovsk a la Mer Oaspienne. " Ce serait un rOsultat important, qui, au point de vue des intOrets Russes, 6qmvaudrait a celui qu'est susceptible d'apporter le d6bordement de rAmou-Daria. La possibility de detoumer le cours de ce fleuve fait entrevoir le moyen de tracer une voie, jusque-la irrOalisable, a travers de steppes immenses et arides. " Le projet qu'a le Gouvernement Persan de construire la ligne de T6Unn h Rescht rend probable de notre part la construction d'une voie ferrOe vers la Perse et amsi serait trouvO le chemin le plus direct et le plus commode vers 1' Afghanistan et 1 Inde. Nous le repetons, il faut nous incliner devant le gOnie de Pierre-le-Grand, aux indications duquel nous devons d'etre enfin arrives a rOaliser la grande entreprise dont son vaste espnt avait saisi d^s lors I'importance pour la Russie " 91 No. 93. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury .—{Received June 26.) My Lord, _ ResU, June 5, 1879. EVERY mail that passes by Enzelee contains Eussian troops on tlieir way t( Tchikischlar. I am also informed that, in consequence of the great demand for Persian silver specie at Baku— the only coin that the Turkomans wUl take at the hands of the Russians — the Persian toman had risen to 4 J roubles, and was likely to attain to 5 roubles very shortly. This circumstance will Mkely lead to a scarcity of coin in this province, and also to the introduction of an increased amount of foreign goods, both for its own consump- tion, and for that of the interior of Persia. I haye, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHURCHILL. No. 94. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received June 30.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, June 24, 1879. , I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, an extract from the " Journal de St. P^tersbourg," giving a report upon the progress made with regard to the submarine cable which it is proposed to lay down in the Caspian Sea from Cape Gourgian to Krasnovodsk. I have, &c, (Signed) E. R. PLUNKETT. Inclosure in No. 94. Extract from the "Journal de St. Petersbourg" of June ^, 1879. LA Commission Tel^graphique chargde de la pose du c^ble sous-marin de la Caspienne a termini ses travaux. Le c^ble s'^tendra entre le Cap Gourgian et ja, Baie de Krasnovodsk, et aura une longueur de 150 milles ; il coMera 700,000 roubles. II sera envoys de Londres a Petersbourg en Juillet, et sera enti^rement pose pour la fin de Septembre. De Tchikisliar a Astrabad fonctionnera un telegraphe aerien. Les tel^grammes de Tchikisliar suivront la route d'Astrabad-Teh^ran, et de la par le telegraphe Indo-Europden parviendront a Tiflis. La ligne aerienne entre Bakou et la station d'Apscheronsky sera prete dans deux mois. No. 95. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received June 30.) My Lord, St, Petersburgh, June 25, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that the " Golos " of the |-|th June contains the following telegram from Tiflis : "A telegram received by the Tiflis Messenger from Tchikischlar, under date of the i%th June, states that on that day the vanguard of the expeditionary corps left Tchikischlar via ^ Chat for, Duzolum, at the junction of the Rivers Sambar and Chandar. The weather is propitious, and there is no illness among the troops." A later telegram states that the .vanguard, which left Tchikischlar on the -j^gth " . instant, consisted of three battalions of infantry, five sotnias of cavalry, a company of sappers, and four guns, and was under the command of Prince Dolgorouki. I have, &c. (Signed) E. R. PLUNKETT. [1S7J N 2 92 No. 96. The Marquis of Salisbury to the Earl of Duferin. My Lord, Foreign Office, July 9, 1879. ' I ASKED the Russian Ambassador to-day, whether there was any truth in the reports which had been extensively circulated, that an expedition was starting from the shores of the Caspian Sea with the intention of marching upon Merv. ^ In reply, his Excellency referred to assurances which he had previously given to me, that no such intention was entertained by the "Russian Government. He had informed his Government, he said, of my intimation that Her Majesty's Government could not look without dissatisfaction upon any operations which should have the effect of either threatening Merv or encroaching upon Persian territory, and he assured me that no design involving either result was entertained by the Imperial Government. m/i ^ m The present expedition, he stated, was directed against the Tek6 Turkomans, and, if successful, probably would have for its result the construction of a cham of posts uniting Krasnovodsk and Chekishler by a curved line, of which the extreme point would not be nearer than 250 kilom. to Merv. Count Schouvaloff added that he entirely disbelieved in the existence among any section of Russian statesmen of a wish to advance to Merv ; and he remarked, that even if such a design as that of occupying Herat as a stepping-stone to India were conceivable, ' Merv did not lie upon the nearest road between the Caspian and Herat. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBTOY. No. 97. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received July 12.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, July 6, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith to your Lordship a translation of a letter from the correspondent of the " Moscow Gazette " respecting the diversion of the River Attrek into its old bed. I have. &c. (Signed) ■ DUEEERIN. Inclosure in No. 97. Extract from the "Moscow Gazette" o/Jr/^'s, 1879. (Translation.) THE correspondent of the "Moscow Gazette," attached to General Lazareff's expedition, writes from Tchikischlar under date of the lift, June as follows : — "A few days ago the diversion of the River Attrek into its old bed was effected. , This river formerly flowed into the Caspian almost at the northern extremity of the Lake of Hassan Kulin, about twelve versts from Tchikischlar. About nine years ago, directly after our occupation of Krasnovodsk, the Persian Turkoman of the Ak-Atubaitsi tribe constructed the Bent dam, about sixty versts from the mouth of the River Attrek, and diverted its course to their winter quarters, some distance to the south of the natural bed. In consequence of this our Attrek nomads were deprived of fresh water, and were involuntarily compelled to cross over to the Persian side. Quite recently General Lazareff dispatched Colonel Shelkofnikoff to explore the former bed of the Attrek, and the result of this excursion was an, order issued by the former to destroy the Bent dam and allow the Attrek to pursue its natural course. About 1,500 Djafarbaitsi-Turkomans, who are nearly interested in the diversion of the river, laboured almost gratuitously at this work for three days, and finished their task ahoiit five days ago, so that at the present time the diverhion of the Attrek into its old bed is an accomplished fact, thanks to which there exists the possibility, not only of con- structing a canal, but subsequently of diverting the whole river. Then, again, it must be anticipated that the majority of the Turkomans on the Persian side will move over to om- territory; and, lastly, during the first marches of our detachment over what was 93 formerly a waterless waste, our troops will "proceed, if not along the banks of the Attrek, at least at no great distance from that river. St. Petersburgh, July 5, 1879. No. 98. Mr. JR. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.-— {Received July 1 5.) My Lord, Tehran, June 8, 1879. I HAD the honour of telegraphing, yesterday, to his Excellency the Viceroy oi India, that the results of our recent* policy as regards Afghanistan, and the success which has attended the conclusion of the campaign, in which I begged most heartily to congratulate his Excellency, have brought about very beneficial results here, and, as I am informed, the same effect has been produced in other parts of Persia, Mr. Oonsul- General Abbott informs me that at this moment our influence predominates at Tabreez, which from its geographical position has always been under Russian influence. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. No. 99. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received July 15.) My Lord, Tehran, June 13, 1879. I HAVE the honour to enclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, copy of the correspondence which I have received from the Meshed Agent and of letters from Merv and Herat. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD E. THOMSON, Inclosure 1 in No. 99. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) May 17, 1879, AETER the starting of Eyoub Khan's messenger for Tehran, I was told by some Heratees that the letters of which he was the bearer, although professing to be from Ameer Yakoub Khan, were in reality concocted by Eyoub Khan. The Cabul and Candahar regiments of the Herat garrison are in a state of disaffec- tion and disorder. The officers have no kind of authority over them, and all the Govern- ment employes at Herat are in expectation of news announcing the capture of Cabul and the downfall of Yakoub Khan; and so soon as the troops get this news they intend robbing the peasantry and neighbourhood, and deserting Ibr their homes. The inhabitants of Herat hate given up all industry and trade. No shops with the exception of those of bakerS, grocers, and butchers are opened, and the natives bring all their gbods, because of the state of lawlessness of the place and the oppression of the authorities, Erom time to time they produce such things as may be necessary, but then hide them again. The authorities also are so fearful of the stability of their tenure of office that they are mercilessly collecting a year's taxes. All people trying to get away are stopped on the borders, and are not allowed to pass unless they know some one in authority, or are able to bribe and make presents, AH the inhabitants of Herat, native and outsiders, are anxiously awaiting the advance of the English army. Any traveller coming from Cabul is taken first before the authorities, by men stationed at the gates for the purpose, where he is taught what he is to say, according to the interests of those in power, Erom Merv I hear that some Turkomans who had gone on a raiding expedition haye stationed themselves at Sheir Teppeh, at the cross-roads of Herat and Jam, so as to le able to attack any undefended place. We have no news of the Russian proceedings in Akhal. Six days ago we had authentic news that the Governor of Derehgez had reported 94 to the Government that some Turkomans having come on a raid towards that plac^, the local horse had gone out and charged them, capturing one prisoner and eleven horses. Three people were killed. Three heads -were sent here. From Koochan we hear, hy a report which reached here two days ago, that the raiders on returning from Derehgez attacked the Koochan districts. Several days ago the Sahab Ikhtiar took 50 men and 2 guns to his camp, which is 2 farsakhs above Sahan Germah, i.e., 15 farsakhs from Meshed, and has required the attendance there of the Jam horsemen. He has taken up a position from which he can cut off any Turkomans who may come. Inclosure 2 in No. 99. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) _ May 24, 1879. SOME soldiers arrived here a week ago from Beerjand. They state that the Hishmet-ul-Mulk is at that place, and that news had reached him there that the dam on the river (? Helmund) had given way, causing much damage. I have no Khorassan news to report, save that the Shooja-ed-Dowleh does not attend to bills drawn on him by the Government, and keeps the Government servants out of their money. Yar Mahommed Khan, Eelkhanee, of Boojnoord, has also, as formerly, a Mohussil billeted on him, claiming the 6,000 tomans whjch had been robbed by Turkomans from Bushrooyah merchants, on the road between Abassabad and Meyan- dasht. The Sahib Ikhtiar, five days ago, reported to the Lieutenant-Governor that he was going to Zoorabad, so as to be near Bakherz, he having heard that some raiding Turka-. mans would probably attack that place and Jam. Some 500 or 600 soldiers were sent from the camp to take up a position at Paskanar, near Ak Derbend, so that the Meshed Valley should not be undefended. Some time back, I reported the capture of a Teimouree who had murdered and robbed a Jedeed* and a Turkoman. He was executed three days ago. Provisions are cheap, there having been a heavy fall of rain. The threatened scarcity of ice has been averted. It is now sold for 10 to 15 krans per kharvar, and retailed at 5 shahees a man.f Inclosure 3 in No, 99. The Meshed Agent to Mr. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) May 31, 1879. IT appears that Yar Mahommed Khan, the Governor of Boojnoord, being severely pressed by the Central Government to recover the sum of 6,000 or 7,000 tomans, value of property plundered from merchants last year on the Khorassan road, first made an attempt to attack the Akhal Turkomans ; but, not being able to do anything there, went and made a raid on the tribes at Karee Kaleh, who profess allegiance to the Persian Government, and has brought back 30 captives, 30 camels, 400 sheep, as well as other beasts of burden. On Thursday last the Chief in command of the troops in Khorassan, who had left Meshed with troops and guns to meet and attack the Merv Turkomans, a body of whom had moved with the intention of plundering Khorassan, returned to Meshed. It appears that the :^lev\ees, finding that the Persians were on the alert and in force, tiumed off at the Bridge of Khatoon, and went in the direction of the Herat territory, where, it is said, they completely plundered and carried off three encampments of nomad tnbes ; others say that they have earned off 2,000 captives, 15,000 sheep, and 200 camels. Yusuf Khan, of Hezareh, wrote to Meshed three days ago, that it is rumoured that the Jemshudee tribe, with the Saryk tribe, of Penjdeh, overtook the above- mentioned Tuikomans, and, after a severe fight, in which there was much loss of life, made them give up the captives and the spoil which they had taken. Last week Sirdar Eyoub Khan wrote to the Prince Govemori to the Keeper of the * Jew convert to Mahommedanisra. t Sjcf. for 6 J lbs, 95 Holy Shrine, and to the other authorities, asking that the wife of his butler, who had taken Sanctuary when the Sirdar and his suite were returning to Herat, should he brought out of Sanctuary, and sent to Herat, a request compliance with which is qnite out of the power of the authorities, and very absurd on the part of the Sirdar, the woman being also a Persian. The Oazi of Herat has also addressed a letter to the clergy (here) on the same subject, couched in very insolent and harsh terms, to which the clergy intend sending no answer at all, and to make a formal complaint respecting it to the Sirdar. Inclosure 4 in No. 99. Utetter from Herat. (Translation.) May 4, 1879. YESTEEDAY two and a half lacs of Cabul rupees, that is to say, 50,000 tomans, arrived here from Turkistan. The expenses here being great, and the revenues small, this sum has been paid into the Treasury of Eyoub Khan. No doubt this has been done with the knowledge of Yakoub Khan. The Sepeh Salar and Sultan Mahommed Khan are to start for Cabul to-morrow or the day after ; they will be escorted by Yar Gul Khan, brother of Gabriel Eakir Ahmed Khan, and two hundred horse. Some other Khans are to follow in five or six days. These have doubtless been summoned at the request of the British officials who wish that Eyoub Khan's supporters should be present at any deliberations respecting peace. We hear from Oandahar that the English have got a firm footing there, and have been collecting supplies of all sorts.' The inhabitants have much liberty, and are making a great deal of profit by their transactions. No customs dues are levied beyond one rupee for every ten Candahar Mans on each load which is exacted, without respect to the kind of goods. We have no fresh news from Cabul, as the authorities only publish what is favour- able to themselves, in the hopes of keeping the natives of the province together. Affairs at Herat are in a very disturbed state, and we "do not know where aU will end. The Vizier is one Gabriel Eakir Ahmed Khan, but he has no authority, and no one attends to him. If he issues an order which agrees with the temper of the troops, he is obeyed, but not otherwise. Seyed Jellal, Afghan, is the Meshed Agent of Eyoub Khan; he gets information, and executes commissions for him, but they are very careful in their communications with the Persian Government officials. Inclosure 5 in No. 99. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) May 9, 1879. I HEAE- that according to letters which arrived from Turkestan, last night, the wives whom Shere Ali Khan had taken there with him have been summoned by Yakoub Khan to Cabul, and that from this it is gathered that he intends concluding peace with the British Government, but nothing is known of the terms. The Sepeh Salar and Sultan Mahommed Khan have started for Cabul. Sirdar Mahommed Omar Khan and the other Khans who were with Eyoub Khan at Meshed, start the day after to-morrow. .Inclosure 6 in No. 99. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) May 16, 1879. THEEE days ago a Government courier came in from Cabul. Ameer Yakoub Khan had written to Sirdar Eyoub Khan, telling him to send twenty batmans of manna, and also informed him that Sirdar Yahia Khan had been sent to bring the harems from Turkestan. This Sirdar is the Ameer's father-in-law. Twelve days ago, the Sepeh Salar was despatched with honour ; but under the surveillance of 200 horsemen to Cabul. He left without being in debt to either the Herat Treasury or any private individual. Sirdar Mahommed Omar Khan, the ex- Governor of Herat, was also sent to Cabul three days ago in a very ignominious maimer, his private servants were all put under arrest and it being found that he had r 96 spent a lac of rupees out of the revenues, a bond was taken from him for the amount in Yakoub Khan's name, and forwarded to Cabul, for the Ameer either to recover the sum from him or make him a present of it. Two nights ago, jMustowfee Mirza Azez, who has been the Mustowfee of Herat for the last four years, was arrested with two of his brothers, and his accounts were examined. A deficit of 8,000 tomans was foimd, and the Sirdar has put him in prison until he makes good the money. General Fakir Ahmed Khan is the absolute Minister of Sirdar Eyoub Khan. Several Afghan Chiefs like Mirakhor Agha Jan Khan and others who accompanied the Sirdar from Meshed, have all been recently sent to Cabul by the advice of the said General. Two Herat regiments, which had deserted from Meimaneh, were compelled to go back by the Herat authorities ; on arriving there the inhabitants would not allow them to enter the place, so they have gone and occupied Aul-i-Mar, a place three forsakhs distant. There are no signs of peace, the British authorities are paramount at Candahar, and it is said their advanced guard has come as far as Zameendaver. To-day, a caravan of about 1,000 souls, Candaharee merchants, &c., left for Can- dahar. They had goods and ready cash to the amout of ten to twelve lacs of krans, Inclosure 7 in No. 99. Letter from Merv. (Translation.) May 8, 1879. FROM Akhal we have the news that the Russians are coming. Between Chool, TJrgenj, and Bokhara they are digging wells two farsakhs apart. Troops are also coming in the direction of Samarkand. The raiding Tekes have brought up great quantities of sheep from Bokhara. The news from Merv is, that large raiding parties have gone out towards Andkhoi and Hezareh, while one body will make a raid on either Meshed or the Saryks. Everything is very cheap and there is a great abundance. At Bokhara things are cheap too, but at Khiva they are dearer. No. 100. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received July 15.) (Extract.) Tehran, June 14, 1879. I HAVE the honour to transmit herewith, for your Lordship's information, trans- lations of letters which I have received from Asterabad. The Agent reports in his letter of the 2nd of June that the Elders of the tribes inhabiting Karee Kaleh had applied to the Russian authorities at Chat for protection and redress in view of the injustice alleged to have been done to them by the Persian Chief of Boojnoord. I have spoken to the Minister of Foreign Affairs on this subject. His Highness stated that he had no information of any appKcation having been made by the people of Karee Kaleh to the Russians, but that complaints had reached him of the ill-treat- ment to which they declared they had been exposed at the hands of the Governor of Boojnoord, and that it was his intention to cause inquiry to be made into the pro- ceedings of that official. Inclosure 1 in No. 100. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) jj^ay 12 and 19, 1879. May 12^^.— THE Temoot horsemen go to Chekishler in bodies of five aiid ten, where, having been past in review by the officer in command, fhey get a month's wages of 30 roubles m advance. They are then to go and make their preparations, until General Lazareff's return. 97 News has reached here that the Russians are going to lay a telegraph cable from Baku to Krasnovodsk, whence, having hroughtit to Chekishler, they intend connecting it with the Aster abad line. May IQth.—We hear from the plains that General Lazareff is to arrive here very shortly. Provisions are being daily conveyed by camels, and in carts from Chekishler to Chat. • Prom Goklan we have the news that the Elkhanee has gone to Boojnoord. Last year a sum of 6,000 tomans having been robbed and carried away by some T(5\V^ horsemen,' on the road from Tehran to Khorassan, orders were several times sent from the capital for their recovery, but these remained unheeded until a short time back, when a Mohussil arrived, who rudely (vigorously) demanded payment of the amount. • The Elkhanee, seeing no way out of the affair, has taken all his horse and footmen and gone against the Akhal T6k6s, with the intention of plundering them to the amount for which he has been held responsible. Inclosure 2 in No. 100. The Asterdbad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) May 26, 1879. ON the l7th of May, eleven steamers and sailing ships arrived at Chekishler, ten regiments of infantry and cavalry and much provisions' have been already landed there, and a wooden jetty 200 yards long has been constructed to facilitate their disembarka- tion. There was such a quantity of provisions, that there were immense heaps along the shore on each side of the jetty. The camp also extended over a long distance ; the ropes of the tents overlapped each other, so that there was no passage between them, and yet the extent covered was more than half a farsakh (2 miles). About 300 Lesghees have come, bringing their own carts and horses to let on hire. Any Yemoot Charvas who have camels bring them to Chekishler, where they are hired at twelve krans and a-half (per journey). Day and night convoys of camels and mules, carrying provisions, are being sent to Chat. Infantry and cavalry are constantly being forwarded with these convoys. I have been unable to discover of how many men the troops there consisted. Two nights after the arrival of these troops, a Yemoot woman haviog come down to fetch water from some wells near the camp, was ill-treated by two soldiers ; she complained to the people of her tribe^ who laid the matter before the commanding officer, who had the men severely punished. General Lazareff has not yet arrived, but will be here iii a few days. Previous to the arrival of the troops, the ofS.cer in command at Chekishler had sent four Yemoot Chiefs as spies amongst the Tek^s. These reported that the T^k^s had collected thirty-two guns, and a considerable force of cavalry ; that the T^k^s had addressed a representation to the Persian Government, asking why, if they were Persian subjects, the Russians were coming against them ; and if they are not Persian subjects, they asked leave to get aid from the English and Afghans on their own account ; with much more to the same effect. The camels which were to have come from Elhiva and the Khivan districts have not yet arrived. It is everywhere rumoured that, unless the (Russian) troops march in early summer against the T^k^s, they will not move until the autumn. Of those who have offered their services from 'amongst the Jafferbais and Atabais, more than 300 horsemen have been passed in review, and been paid a month's wage of 30 roubles. They are so eager to go that the Chiefs of the Atabais cannot restrain them even by the most stringent orders, that with old and new troops there will be about 30,000 men. Baked bread, flour, barley, straw, ami sheep are every day taken by the Jafferbais from the villages and districts of Mazanderan and Asterabad, and sold (to the Russians) at high prices. The latter, without a word, make cash advances to any one who offers Ivimself. Great quantities of all necessaries for the movement of troops have been prepared. Ou the 25th May a short letter reached me from Hussein Kuli, in which I am informed that the four spies who had been sent among the T6k^s report that there is a district, which the Russians must cross, having for many farsakhs a pebbly, gravelly, and sandy soil, which the natives have inundated to such an extent, that a ri27] ' O 98 very strong horse can with difficxilty get through, and it is impassable for carts or artillery. Mirza Ali Khan, son of the late Mirza Agha Khan Sepeh Salar, has arrived here at the head of 450 Mazandran Kurdish cavahy. The Prince has heard from the Atabais, that the caravan which lately arrived at Krasnovodsk from Khiva reports that there are fresh difficulties between Eussia and Turkey, and that these were the causes of the delay in General Lazareff 's arrival. Accounts from Bayat Hajji report the detachment there to consist of 700 to 800 men, infantry and cavahy, and that many wooden magazines have been constructed there, and filled with provisions and ammunition. At Chat, I am told, there were not more than 3,000 men, including workmen. Six mounted guns were drawn up in front of the fort ; there were also eight unmounted guns, and much ammunition and pro- visions collected there. The camp of Chat is in a plain, which extends for 8 farsakhs to the east, with a branch of the Elburz, called here the Goklan Mountains ; and 18 farsakhs distant, to the north and north-west are the Balkhans. To the south and south-west there is open country, consisting principally of downs. The Attrek, which rises near Koochan, flows to the west, and the Sembar from the direction of the T6k6 country on the south-west. The Karee Kaleh stream joins the Sembar just above the camp. The two rivers join at Chat, hence the name. Because of the quantities of stone, it is also sometimes called Rood-i-Dashli. The E/Ussians have built a fort here 500 yards square, and the east side of the fort is built on the edge of the Sembar, and the southern wall is on the bank of the Attrek, It has a gate on both (these) sides. The fort is unfinished, the waj.ls being as yet only two yards and a-half high. It is very strongly constructed of stones and mortar. Within the four walls nothing has as yet been built, with the exception of some wooden storehouses ; workmen and builders are occupied every day. There are 10 farsakhs between Chat and Goklan ; 10 farsakhs also is the distance to Karee Kaleh, 14i farsakhs to Attrek, 19 farsakhs to Chekishler. To Asterabad the distance is 16 farsakhs in a direct line, but 25 farsakhs by Attrek. The latter is safer. About sixty of the inhabitants having held a meeting, have left for Tehran, by way of Shahrood, to petition against the Prince Governor ; ten or twelve merchants, or Mollahs, left two days after with the same object. The Secretary of the Russian Consul is in town. Two officers have also come here ; they ride out and about in the neighbourhood, surveying and measuring the land. Inclosure 3 in No. 100. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) June 2, 1879. ON the 29th ultimo, intelligence was received that a Russian Captain has pur- chased forty-five Turkoman tents from the Oharva tribe of Jaaf erbai Turkomans at 15 tomans each, and sent them on to Chat ; that the Russians have also sent 500 men to cut the Attrek dam, so that the river may run in its old course, and fall into the Caspian, below Chekishler ; that they are engaged in putting up a telegraph line from Krasnavodsk to Chat, Bayat Hajji, Chekishler, and Ak Kaleh, where it will join the Persian hne. InteUigence was received from the Goklan Plains that Yar Mahomed Khan Eelkhanee made a raid upon the T6k6 Turkomans, but, not being able to do any- thing, he went and attacked the tribes residing at Karee Kaleh ; he seized several of their Elders, and some of their property, which he brought to Boojnoord. The tribes, witnessmg such injustice, took refuge with the Russians, and the whole of the Elders apphed to the Russian General, who promised to recover their property and captives^ Yar Mahommed Khan pretends that the horsemen who plundered the high road of Khorassan last year, were led by two of the Karee Kaleh people. An Atabai Turkoman came in expressly to the Prince Governor on the 31st May, saymg that 2,000 Carabagh and Cossack horsemen, with 3,000 camels, had started from Krasnayodsk to erect the telegraph line, and that troops, arms, and provisions, were cDiislantly being landed. General Lazareff was also to arrive at Krasnavod§lf with the remainder of the troops On the 3rd instant. ^ , 99 Thirty horsemen of the GoMan tribes have gone and taken service with the Russians. No. 101. Mr. R. Thomson to the. Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received July 1 5.) (Extract.) Tehran, June 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation of the Asterahad Agent's Heport. Inclosure in No. 101. The Asterahad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) June 9, 1879. IT appears that there has been a mistake in reporting that a fort has been built at Ohat. The fact is this : two sides are protected by water whilst on the other two sides a deep moat has been dug, and four strong bastions are erected in the four corners. I have received a letter stating that 4,000 Russian troops had left Ej-asnovodsk, 3,000 cavalry and 1,000 infantry, accompanied by 500 Yemoots of Khiva and 8,000 camels, and that they had arrived at Chekeeja. Another account also confirms the news that cavalry and infantry have arrived at Chekeeja from Krasnovodsk, and that 3,000 camels have also arrived at Ohekishler. Chekeeja is half-way to the Tek6 plains, and it seems that these troops have been sent there to prevent any attack on Ohat. General IJazarefE reached Ohekishler on the 4th instant, but the whole of his forces have not yet come. His preparations are said to be complete in every respect. A Jaaf erbai has told me that an Arinenian and Lesghi were having a discussion in which the Armenian remarked that neither the Afghans, T6k6s, nor any one else could make a stand against General Lazareff's forces and preparations. The Lesghi, however, asked him whether he had seen all the mounds and other signs all about the country, for they were the graves of the people killed by the Turkoman people, and that the present force would also share the same fate, I recently reported that 300 men had been sent to destroy the Attrek dam ; these not having succeeded, another larger party has been despatched under Hajee Noor Geldee K!han, Jaaferbai. This Khan is in very high favour with the Russians, but the head master of caravans is not so at present. Intelligence has been received from Shahrood that the Russian Agents have asked for -up to 1,000 mules, to be paid 'for at the rate of 2 kraus a-day on the march or otherwise ; but it is not apparent what they are to carry or what their destination is. Every animal that dies is to be paid for. It has been announced by telegraph from Tehran that the telegraph line will be extended from Mazanderan to the port of Ghez, and thence to Asterahad, and tha,t a telegraph officer has left Tehran for that purpose. No. 102. Mr. R. Thomson to Ihe Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received July 1 5.) My Lord, Tehran, June 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, translation of a Report which I havie received from 'the Mission Agent at Meshed. I ha:ve, &c. (Signed/ RONALD F. THOMSON. [127] O 2 100 Inclosure in No. 102. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) June 1, 1879. (Extract.) , who has been a resident of Candahar for some time and who only left that city for Furrah when the British forces took it, recently went to Herat to reside outside the town, but Sirdar Eyoub Khan and General Eakir Ahmed Khan hearing of his arrival sent him a message that for the present it was unsuitable for biTin to remain in the neighbourhood of Herat, and ten horsemen were ordered to see him leave. Two days ago he arrived here ; he reports that when he left Herat a rumour had reached there that Sirdar Yakoub Khan had fled from Cabul to Balkh, and that the English troops had entered Cabul. -He also added that on the arrival of the Sepeh Salar, who has been sent to Cabul from Herat by Sirdar Eyoub Khan, in the Hezareh country, he was rescued from the guard accompanying him ; that the horsemen who were also conveying Mahommed Omar Khan, the ex- Governor of Herat, with the other Chiefs to Cabul, on hearing of this halted at the village at which they had arrived, proceeding no further. Intelligence has been received from the Akhal country that the Russians will shortly advance against it. The news that was lately received from Merv was that the Russians were digging wells at every two farsakhs on the Khiva road. It now appears that Russian troops are coming to Tejjenfrom Khiva to prevent any assistance being given from Merv to the Akhal Turkomans. Should such be the case the Akhal Turkomans will be put to great straits, for in the first place they will lose their harvest ; secondly, their place of refuge at Eoom is at present quite uninhabitable on account of the heat ; under these circumstances, the Akhal country will probably soon be taken by the Russians, whence they will advance upon Merv. Seven days ago Yousouf Khan of Hezareh, Governor of Backherz, wrote to the Meshed authorities that the Herat authorities were on the alert when the Turkomans attempted to make a raid upon the Herat territory, and that the latter had only succeeded in carrying off a few cattle, which were re-taken by the Jemsheedee horse- men and the Saryk Turkomans of Penj Deh. No. 103. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received July 21.) (Extract.) St. Petersburgh, July 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to state that on "Wednesday, the 9th instant, I took occasion, during the course of a conversation with M. de Giers, to refer casually to the opera- tions of the Russian army against the Tek^s, to the eastward of the Caspian Sea, as well as to the reports current of a contemplated advance upon Merv by General LazerefE. M. de Giers assured me, in reply, in the most positive manner, that there was no intention on the part of the Russian Government to go to Merv, that their object was simply to put an end to the depredations of the Turkoman tribes in the neighbourhood of the Caspian ; and he added of his own accord, that in the conduct of these opera- tions the strictest orders had been given to respect the Persian territory. I asked M. de Giers whether he supposed the Russian and the English Govern- ments were agreed as to the exact limits of the Persian frontier ; M. de Giers said he imagined they were, though in the interior of the country there was, of course a good deal of terra incognita. I have also had a conversation with Baron Jomini on the same subject. Baron Jomini says that the Russian advance is intended to stop at a poiat some 200 versts upon this side of Merv. This spot forms the easternmost apex of a triangle, witliin which are contained the various oasis, where the T6U Turkomans keep their women and cattle. Two columns, one from the Caspian Sea and the other from the North, will be directed upon this triangle. Having thus become masters of these oasis, a permanent stop will be put to the depredations of the tribes, and any further efforts in that direction on the part of the Russian armies will be unnecessary; "but," added Baron Jomini, "although we don't intend to go to Merv, or to do anything which may be interpreted as a menace to England, you must Hot deceive yourself, for the result of our present proceedings will be to furnish us with a • 101 base of operations against England, hereafter, should the British Government by the occupation of Herat threaten our present position in Central Asia." I replied that I did not imagine there was any question at present of the occupa- tion of Herat by a British garrison, and that it seemed to me it would be very easy for England and Russia to arrive at an understa,nding which would obviate for the f uture those irritating suspicions which naturally at present attached to the reported move- ments of the Russian troops to the eastward of the Caspian Sea, and ^hich undoubtedly^ reacted with a pernicious effect upon the intercourse of the two Governments, in relation even to European affairs. No. 104. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. -^-{Received July 21.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, July 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to forward herewith, for your Lordship's information, two interesting translations, by Mr. Michell, from the Russian Press, on the subject of General Lazareft's expedition against the T6k6 Turkomans. I have, &c. (Signed) DUEEERIN. Inclosure 1 in No. 104. Extract from the "Moscow Gazette" of July x'g, 1879. (Translation.) General Lazarepf's Expedition a&ainst the Tekb Turkomans. — The " Moscow Gazette " of the ^^th July, 1879, publishes the following letter from its correspondent who accompanies General Lazareff's expedition. This communication is dated the ^th Juae, and was written at Chekishler : — " The letter I send you to-day is in a mutilated condition. The censor of the staff has only left shreds of it, but I considered that even these would be preferable to silence. Tou will at least exonerate me from all blame. "You are aware that the advanced column was to leave Chekishler on the T^th June. The departure of the column did actually take place on that date as stated. " The day after the advanced column had departed we were awakened at 3 a.m. by an unexpected alarm. ' Strike tents ! ' ' saddle ! ' &c., were the orders that resounded throughout the cavalry encampment. I rose in haste, lit my candle and dressed, amidst the dreadful noise caused by the wind and waves. Suddenly my tent, situated about 100 yards from the shore, was invaded by a large wave, and I found myself in abouf a foot of water. The matter was explained thus : It appears that the alarm was caused by the sea, which had overflown in consequence of a heavy gale, and inundated the cavalry encampment and the whole shore, which was covered with hospital tents, stacks of timber, &c. Several kibitkas (felt tents) were already standing- in water, and about fifty irregular horsemen, who were encamped close to the shore, found themselves surrounded by water. The night was dark, and a dreadful con- fusion ensued. A similar inundation has not occiirred since 1855, when the sea over- flowed 20 versts (15 miles) inland from Chekishler. The Turkomans on that occasion had a narrow escape, and lost a great deal of property. . . . "I have said nothing of the object of our expedition, and must, unfortunately, be equally discreet in the future. This is the order we have received. . . . " Our detachment, which is destined to carry out a cei-tain purpose, is very strong, exceeding in point of strength General Kauffman's detachment which acted against Khiva. But it is necessary to bear in mind the circumstance that in all probability the best half of our force will be expended in occupying varioiT? points, in order to secure our communication with the rear. Moreover, the conditions of the present expedition are totally different from those under which the Khivan expedition was effected. In 1873 we were entering a rich oasis, where, in case of necessity, we could obtain supplies. Consequently all our difficulty consisted in reaching that oasis. It is hardly proibable that we shall obtain supplies in Akhal T^pe, and, therefore, if our hopes in obtaining supplies from Persia turn out illusory we shall be compelled, in the first instance, to carry them with us and afterwards to receive them from Chekishler 102 The detachment cannot take less than a two months' supply, which will necessitate the employment of 1,500 carts and many thousand camels. Such a large train will naturally absorh a considerable portion of the detachment for its protection, and on deducting these the number of troops remaining for actual military operations will be inconsiderable, although it is stated that the necessary number of camels may ahmys be obtained from the local Turkomans. Yet it is thought that this may have an injurious eflFect on the cultivation of the country. " In a few days a smaU pack train is expected to arrive here from Persia. It consists of eighty horses and mules with their drivers (charvodars), and several similar trains are expected later. " I was much pleased to meet here a Goklan Turkoman who had recently been with the T6k^s, and inviting him to take a glass of tea I proceeded to question him. Had my guest been as loquacious as he was ready to drink tea and smoke, I would, perhaps, have obtained some definite information. "With difficulty, however, I ascer- tained that according to his opinion the Akhal T6ke population amounted to 400,000, and that their principal and central fort was Geok T^pi, where rumours of our expe- dition had already arrived, and where the greatest resistance was being organized. He had heard that in the event of an unsuccessful issue of the struggle the Akhal Tek^s would retire to Merv. [Further, if my casual informant was to be credited, Tekme, the nearest T6ke Chief, and who resides at the fort of Beurma, has publicly declared that he will not oppose the Russians, inasmuch as he ' considers it useless to war with those whom even the Padishah of Stamboul could not vanquish.' The last Akhal Tek6 fort eastwards is Giaurs. Prom this point to Merv the distance is fifteen infantry marches, the first ten of which extend over a waterless steppe, the soil consisting of hard clay. The Turkomans never camp on this ground. Horsemen generally traverse the steppe in six days, and carry a supply of water with them. The remaining five stages proceed through an inhabited country where vineyards are even met with. Merv itself, from the number of its inhabitants and the size of its fort, is somewhat larger than Khiva." (Signed) '* Aeskt. " Chekishler, June if, 1879." Inelosure 2 in No. 104. Extract from the "Moscow Gazette" o/Jur/u, 1879. (Translation.) Russian Expedition against Teke-Tubkomans.— General Lazareffs's expedition has by this time penetrated in the interior of the Trans-Caspian steppe and has doubtless now entered the belt of the T6ke Settlements, which extend from the upper course of the Attrek to Merv, along the northern slope of the hiUs bordering the Elara Kum desert. This expedition is attracting much attention throughout Europe. What can be the object of this undertaking ? What can be the reason of the employment of so lar-ge a body of troops, a force unprecedented in our Central Asian warfare, and numbering from 20,000 to 30,000 men, including the flower of our Caucasian troops, together with grenadiers and dragoons. The numerical strength of the detachment and the heavy trains which follow wquld lead one to presume that the Russian troops are proceeding in the so-called etappe order, establishing fortified points on the route, after the plan adopted by Markosoff in his first march" to Khiva, and where he was arrested on the very frontier of the Khivan Oasis by the order "not to enter Khiva." This was two years prior to the expedition against Khiva. The etappe order is only adopted when a distant expedition is meditated and when the necessity exists for securmg communications. It is surmised that General Lazareff contemplates marching through the Tek6 encampments which, terminate at Merv. Central Asian expeditions can never be Imaited beforehand to a certain area of country; they often necessitate unexpected advances and occupations. We cannot say how far correct are the surmises of the foreign press jrespecting General Lazareff 's final destination, but it is curious that a protest against the possible occupation of Merv should have first found expressions m the Russian ,press. The Petersburgh newspaper ("Golos") to which we aUude declares that E,ussia contams large tracts of uncultivated land, and therefore does^not see why we want Merv ? It finds consolation in the circumstance that the English press does not express dissatisfaction about Lazareff's expedition, and infers from this that m no case shall we occupy Merv. 103 Was it thus the great founder of Petersburgh regarded our interests in Central Asia ? It is only necessary to recollect his anxiety concerning the diversion of the Gxus into the Caspian Sea. No. 105. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received August 4.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, July 29, 1879. I HAVE the hbnour to inform your Lordship that the " Turkestan Gazette" of the "'""J", 1879, states that two iShssian explorers, Captain Hermann and the botanist SmirnofE, will leave the I'erganah region for the mountains of Karategin and Dervatz, which they will explore during the course of this summer. The same gazette states that they take with them the necessary instruments for surveying and making barometrical observations. I have, &c. (Signed) BUEFERIN. No. 106. The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (^Received August 4.) (Extract.j St. Petersburgh, July 30, 1879. IN continuation of my previous despatch of the 16th instant, I have the honour to state that M. de Giers has informed me that His Majesty has expressly approved^ the assurances he had given me as to the non-advance of the Russian troops on Merv. I then mentioned to M. de Giers the observations which had fallen from Baron Jomini in reference to this subject. M. de Giers hastened to reply that the con- templated operations would not extend near so far eastward as the Baron had intianated. No. 107. Mr, R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received August 19.) My Lord, Tehran, June 27, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, transla- tion of the Convention which has been concluded between the Uussian and Persian Governments for the construction and maintenance of a luie of telegraph between Ohekishler and Asterabad. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD E. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 107. Telegraph Convention between Russia and Persia, signed May 24, 1879 (2 Jemadu-es-Sanee, 1296). (Translation.) THE Government of His Imperial Majesty of aU the Russias, having determined to connect their military commands across the Caspian with those in Russia by a telegraph line in conjunction with the telegraph wires now existing in Persia, is desirous to -construct a line for this object from Chekishler to Asterabad ; therefore the undersigned have agreed upon the following Articles : — ARTICLE L The Government of His Imperial Majesty of Russia will, at their own cost, construct a telegraph line from Chekishler to the town of Asterabad, so that it may be there connected with the Persian telegraph lines. 104 ARTICLE II. The Government of His Majesty the Shah of Persia sanctions the construction ,of that part of the line which may be in Persian territory between Ohekishler and Asterabad. The Russian Government will previously inform that of Persia which route may be chosen for that part of the line, and the Persian Ministers will then immediately grant leave for its construction. ARTICLE III. The Persian Ministers will not consider themselves entitled to any recompense or compensation for the construction of that part of the line between Chekishler and Asterabad which may be in Persian territory, and they also engage not to claim custom duty for any material or implements which may be necessary for the construction and keeping in repair of this part of the line to be constructed, bietween Chekishler and Asterabad. ARTICLE IV. The Ministers of His Majesty the Shah undertake, as far as in them lies, to protect such part of the telegraph line from Chekishler to Asterabad as may be in Persia, whether during construction or after completion. They engage to protect it and keep it in working order, that is to say, its " exploitation."* ARTICLE V. The cost of repairing the whole of the telegraph line from Chekishler to Asterabad will rest with the Russian Government until the expiration of this Convention. ARTICLE VI. After the erection of the telegraph line from Chekishler to Asterabad, any telegraph .;. messages from Russian stations on the eastern coast of the Caspian will be received and transmitted by the Persian telegraph lines. The Persian Ministers consent to the transmission and receipt of telegraph messages by the Persian telegraph lines, whether they be in the Russian or (any other) foreign language, or in cypher; (and) to give permission for the stationing of Russian telegraph officers at Persian telegraph stations from Julfa up to Asterabad itself, wherever they may be deemed requisite for the transmission of messages in due order and without delay. ARTICLE VII. The rights and duties of the Russian signallers who may reside in the Persian*; Cvjljgraph stations, by virtue of Article VI of this Convention ; the rules of their inter- ^iomse with the Persian telegraph department ; their number ; and the number of the said telegraph stations, will be defined in separate Articles supplementary to this Convention. ARTICLE VIII. The rate for telegraph messages to be levied by the Persian Government shall be In accordance with the rates now in force in the Persian Government Teleoraph Department, and in conformity with the arrangement which is known in Erench as the '' Declaration Ministerielle " concluded between the Persian and Russian Governments on the 28th October, 1870, and will be as follows :— For a message in transit of twenty words, from Asterabad to Julfa , . . . 4' From Julfa to Asterabad . . . . , , _ " " > From places between Russian stations on the eastern side of the Caspian to Tehran and olher telegraph stations situated on the north of that place , . '4 But from Persian telegraph stations to the south of Tehran . ' " "0 • • • • • • O ARTICLE IX. TI'.c transmission of all the transit telegraph messages passing by the Persian lines betwpon Asterabad and Julfa will take precedence of all private messages from Persian telegraph stations except the official messages of the Persian Governmeni * Sir in orig. • 105 AETICLE X. This Convention will be in force for a year from the day of its signature. After the lapse of this one year, should the Ministers of the Persian and Russian Govern- ments hoth deem it suitable to maintain it, or to make any changes in it, this will be done. AETICLE XI. * After the completion of the telegraph line from Chekishler to Asterabad, the Russian Government will make over to that of Persia that part of the said line which shall have been constructed in Persian territory to be its own property. ■ No. 108. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — [Received August 19.) My Lord, Tehran, June 27, 1879. I HAVE the honour to enclose herewith copies of Reports which I have received from the Meshed and Asterabad Agents and from Herat. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD P. THOMSON. Inolosure 1 in No. 108. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) June 14, 1879. THE younger son of Kousheed Khan has come here with several followers, bringing a letter from his brother, Baba Khan, asking the Prince Governor's permis- sion to come and reside at Serrekhs, bringing several families mth him, as he has always been desirous and willing to serve the Persian Government. His Royal Highness replied, that far from being prevented, he may come to Serrekhs when he likes, and will there be treated with kindness. I also had a letter from , but there was no intelligence of Russian movements towards Merv, nor news of their intentions as regards that place. I learn from some travellers from Seistan, that after the Hishmet-ul-Mulk returned there, about 4,000 of the inhabitants emigrated thence. About 500 of these people I see here in a state of poverty, some begging, whilst others have taken service as workers in the fields. The Seistan dam has also been carried away by water, and most of the stream beds have been fiUed up by the flood. In a very short time (Persian) Seistan will beconie a fruitless and ruined province. Inclosure 2 in No. 108. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) . June 14, 1879. I RECEIVED your Excellency's letter, enclosing translation of the Afghan Treaty of Peace. It came very opportunely to hand, for Sirdar Eyoub Khan's servant had come to Meshed simply to ascertain what news there was of Ameer Yakoub Khan, as the Sirdar was in very low spirits on account of the Ameer's proceeding to India, and he had written to the keeper of the Holy Shrine and the Deputy- Governor, asking them whether they had any intelligence from the "Telegraphic Public News,'.' which the keeper of the Holy Shrine receives from Tehran, or from any other source, requesting them to let him know if they had any news. I considered it, therefore, suitable to be beforehand in apprizing the Sirdar of the conclusion of peace, so that he may be tranquillized as regards Ameer Yakoub Khan, and become aware of the kindness bestowed on him by the British Government, and know in future how to conduct himself. In the hopes of getting him to write and send to me himself, I addressed him a friendly letter four days ago, enclosing copy of the said translation. [127] P 106 Inclosure 3 in No. 108. The Asterahad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. ^ THE Attrek dam has been destroyed, and the water 'flows to below Chekishler from Kara Baba, where the dam was.* * +i. t „*«, i,„- + -i. On the 12th instant several of the Chiefs and Elders of the Jaafer-bai tribe, accompanied by Eel Geldee Khan, came to Asterabad, and made a representation to Tehran, complaining of the oppression of the Russians m the following sense :- « Thev have seized our lands and water and behave in an unjust manner towards us in vanous ways; for instance, they hire our camels, and then make us take paper money at 3 roubles to a toman, whilst others will only accept that sum_ as equivalent to 71 krans from us." They have made other complaints, and it remains to be seen what reply wiU be received from Tehran. x ^i, -d • i? • On the 11th instant General Lazareff addressed a letter to the Persian Foreign Affent, saying that it had been intimated to him from Tehran that 200 Yemoot horse have been renewed, and are ready for guarding the telegraph bne from Chekishler to Asterabad, and asking the Agent at what spot the said horsemen would be ready. The Agent sent the letter to the Prince Governor, who wrote m reply, that We have not yet enlisted the said Gholams, nor has the Sepeh Salar sent us any mstructions on this subiect." He also wrote other things which were not m m accordance with the General's letter. The Prince has only now begun enlisting the said Gholams, to be commanded by Nazar Taaneh and Eel Geldee Khan, and will send them as scon as possible. 1. r\\^ 4. General Lazareff is at present at Chekishler and General Llamakm at Ohat. Several days since, a person giving himself out to be a Greek, having black hair and a black beard, appeared in this town. Sometimes he is very courteous to me, and sometimes tries to obtain information. The local Chiefs who had gone to Shahrood have been summoned to Tehran, whither, though much alarmed, they have gone. Inclosure 4 in No. 108. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) -^w**^ 5, 1879. LATELY two couriers have arrived from Cabul bringing letters. One was from Ameer Yakoub Khan himself, ordering the authorities to have the twelve Cabidee regiments in readiness, as he was about to summon them to Cabul. The other was from Sirdar Shere Ali Khan, of Candahar, who is the Acting Governor of Cabul, Hfe writes to say that the Ameer had left for Peshawur with General Daood Shah Khan and Mustowf ee HabebuUah Khan, but they (the Herat authorities) are to complete the preparations for the (departure of the) Cabul regiments. A caravan and a number of people have recently come in from Candahar; they report that the British officers are busy with the erection of cantonments and baiTacks, and do not appear to have any intention of leaving that town. The people of Herat are now much quieter than formerly, and caravans arrive from all sides. The Cabul regiments are very unruly, and Sirdar Eyoub Khan has not the power of keeping them in order, nor has he much influence in the Local Government. Several days ago a considerable body of Turkomans entered the Herat territory with the intention of making a raid. The authorities on hearing of it dispatched troops and guns to Ghorian and Kahooyeh. The Jemshedee and Penjdeh horsemen, however, beat them off near Kooshk, killing about fifty or sixty men. * This is not confirmed by intelligence which has reached Tehran from Asterabad and Chekishler.— R. F- T. 107 No. 109. Mr, R. Thomson U> the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received August 19.) (Estacact.) Tehran, July 6,> 1879. I HAVE the honour- to inclose herewith copy of a Report from the Asterahad Agent. 4 Inclosure in No. 109. The Asterahad Agent to Mr. R, Thomson. (Translation.) * (Extract.) June 23, 1879. r-^i- A TURKOMAN of the Jaafer-hai tribe came to town on the 20th instant, and complained that General Lazareflf had sent for him, and having taken hold of his heard had beaten him sererely about the head, and had asked him why he wrote false tidings respecting him (the General). Great quantities of wood are conveyed -to Chekishler from the port of Gez, and other ports. The Russians intend constructing brick-kilns for their military buildings at Chekishler. It is said that they now number about 20,000 men at Chat and Chekishler, and troops — both infantry and cavalry — daily arrive from Krasnovodsk ; as yet there are no signs of their advancing. The Russians have begun erecting the telegraph lino from Chekishler to Asterahad. No. 110. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis, of Salisbvry. — {Received August 19.) My Lord, . Tehran, July 1, 1879. I HAVE the honour to report to your Lordship, that I have received information from a correspondent at Merv to the effect that a caravan from Bokhara had brought news of the arrival of 6,000 Russian troops at a place named Karaj Kaftan, on the Oxus, and that it was said they were on their way to Petro- Alexandrovsk. A Khivan caravan also reported that troops were going from the latter place to Bokhara. From Herat it is reported that Eyoub Khan had read in full Council the copy of the terms of peace, which had been forwarded to him by the Meshed Agent. They had caused much and universal satisfaction among the soldiery and inhabitants of- that town; Eyoub Khan does not seem, however, to have any trustworthy person capable of organizing the administration. Sirdar Fakeer Ahmed Khan being, as I am informed, entirely devoted to the interests of the Persian Government. According to the latest information, General Lazareff was still at Chekishler. I have had the honour to communicate the above information to his Excellency the Viceroy of India. I have, &c, (Signed) RONALD E. THOMSON. No. 111. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received August 19.) (Extract.) Tehran, July 12, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copies of Reports from the Agent at Meshed and from Herat. [127] P 2 108 Inclosure 1 in No. 111. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) ^ „^ ^„^„ (Extract.) -^""^ ^1' l^^^' SINCE I telegraphed that a Enssian Agent had dispatched 120 mules to the Russian camp xih Shahrood, he has sent 100 more, and, to my mind, camels are also hii-ed and taken from that part of Khorassan lying between Subverar and Shahrood. I hear that a caravan arrived at Merv from Bokhara, brmging a report that about 6,000 Russian troops had arrived at a viUage on the banks of the Darya (the Oxus), caUed Karaj Kaftan, and it was said that they were going to Shoora Khan,* as commissariat stores had been laid out on the road to that place. My mformant also states that a caravan had arrived from Khiva, bringing news that troops were coming from Shoora Khan to Bokhara, and he also informs me that 1,000 Turkomans, horse and foot, have left Merv on a raiding expedition against Bokhara, and that provisions were cheap at Merv. Inclosure 2 in No. 111. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) J^ne 28, 1879. THE messenger whom I had sent to Herat returned here five days ago. He reports that Sirdar Eyoub Khan was much pleased and satisfied at receiving the news of the conclusion of peace between the British Government and the Ameer of Afghan- istan. He had my letters (conveying the said news) repeatedly read to the military and civil officers, and the chief men of Herat. The troops and inhabitants of Herat have become quiet and are no more afraid, and settled down peaceably on receipt of the news of peace. Eight or nine days ago the younger son of Kousheed Khan, who was the bearer of a letter from his brother to the Prince Governor, returned with the answer. About forty Turkoman husbandmen have come to Bazeekan and sovm the fields. The Meerab has promised to bring another 200 men, .and induce Bakenj Sirdar to take service with Persia. The Meerab has also been given a dress of honour by the Persian authorities for what he has done in this matter. He left two days ago for Merv. Inclosure 3 in No. 111. Letter from Herat, (Translation.) June 14, 1879. THREE days ago one of the persons who had accompanied the Sepeh Salar from here to Cabul returned. He reports that the Hezareh people had intended to rescue the Sepeh Salar from the escoi*t sent with him from Herat, but they were advised to abstain from doing so. He further reports that a day before he left Cabul, General Daood Shah Khan and Mustowfee HabibuUah Khan both arrived at Cabul from Gundamek, and brought the news that peace had been concluded between the English Government and Yakoub Khan. That at first the intention was to invite the Ameer to TJmbaUah to conclude the peace there ; but as cholera had broken out very badly in the neighbourhood of Peshawur, and had kUled one of the officers sent to the Ameer, matters had been arranged at Gundamek, and a Treaty signed by the Ameer, who has also requested a sealed and signed paper from the English authorities, which document they agreed to send to Simla, to be sealed and signed by the Governor- General of India. They further state that the Ameer is still at Gundamek awaiting the aforesaid ratifications ; that six excellent guns, eighteen elephants, and the godam at Jellalabad, which godam is stated to have cost 7 lakhs of rupees, have been presented to him. They have also appointed General Daood Shah Khan to be th^ Commander-in-chief of Afghanistan, and Mustowfee HabibuUah Khan to be the Mustowfee-el-Memalek. Cabul and Candahar have also been restored to the Ameer. Before the Ameer went. Sirdar Vali Mahommed Khan, brother to the late Ameer Shere AH Khan, and AsmatuUah Khan, the son of Azeez Khan, Ghiljai, Chief of the * Petro-Alexandrovsk. 109 Ghiljai tribe at Cabul, went and made their submission to the British authorities at Peshawur. I learn further from letters received from Cabul that the Cabul regiments here have been ordered to be in readiness to proceed thither when required. The Sepeh Salar, who was taken from here, and Sultan Mafcommed Khan, the ex-Governor of Candahar, are kept under arrest until the Ameer's return to Cabul. Sirdar Mahommed Ibrahim Khan, son of the late Ameer, with Mahommed Ali Khan's son, who is the nephew of the late Ameer, are both in prison at Cabul. The affairs of Herat depend upon those of Cabul, but the Cabul regiments are very disorderly, and Sirdar Eyoub Khan is too weak to keep them under restraint. Mirza Azeez has been mad^to repay the sum of 4,500 tomans which he had embezzled from the revenues of the province. Inclosure 4 in No. 111. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) (Extract.) June 19, 1879. I WRITE these lines to inform you that when your servant arrived with your letters conveying the news of the conclusion of peace. Sirdar Eyoub Khan being exceedingly pleased, he held a Public Selaam in the Deevan Khaneh, where he had your letters read. The inhabitants and troops have all been tranquillized by this news, and have settled down peaceably. On the 16th instant Nazar Khan, Belooch, one of Sirdar Eyoub Khan's followers, came in from Cabul bringing a short letter from Ameer Yakoub Khan, written from Boutkhak, which is two farsakhs out of Cabul. He had only written to his brother to assure him that peace had been concluded, and that he would write in detail after his arrival at Cabul. I learn that a very high British official is with the Ameer. No. 112. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received August 19.) (Extract.) Tehran, July 12, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herevidth copy of the letter which Yakoub Khan has addressed to the Shah, announcing Shere Ali's death and his own accession, and thanking His Majesty for the hospitality afforded to his brother, Eyoub Khan, at Meshed. Inclosure in No. 112. Ameer Yakoub Khan to His Majesty the Shah. (Translation.) (After the usual compliments.) {Received July 1879.) I BEG- to state in this friendly letter that amongst matters pre-ordained by the Almighty was the lamented death of my late father. His Highness the Ameer-i-Kabeer, may his soul rest in Paradise, which took place at the Shrine of the Shah-i-Valayet, situated in Balkh. Before he left Cabul he entrusted the affairs of Afghanistan to me, a supplicant at God's threshold, and through God's Grace I have exerted and do exert myself in them, and have not been found wanting. Recently, when my dear brother. Sirdar Mahommed Eyoub Khan, may God protect his life, received permission to return from Meshed, where he made an addition to your Majesty's retinue, and safely arrived at Herat, he reported in detail the numberless favours of your Majesty, and the attentions he had received from the Persian Ministers. The fact that such acts of kindness should have been bestowed on the said Sirdar is a proof of a further development of the cordiality and amity which formerly existed between us. In fact, in times past and when I had the honour of an interview, and up to the present moment, your Majesty has always displayed kindness to (us), your sous. Please God the praiseworthy spirit (thus shown) will strengthen and consolidate^ ib sincerity and truth which exists between our powerful Grovernments. I have nothing further to add. May your Majesty's life and reign be eiuhiiiag and everlasting. No. 113. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received August 19.) My Lord, Tehran July 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, tw>o Eeports, which I have received from the Mission Agent at Asterabad, dated the 30th ultimo and the 7th July. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 113. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) June 30,, 1879. ASKER KHAN, an Engineer ofl&cer, with Moossa Khan, the Chief of the Ak-Atabai Turkomans, and several other Turkomans, having gone to Hussein Koolee, to enquire into some affairs, as soon as General Lazareff heard of his arrival there he sent for him, but he did not go. The General then sent thirty Cossacks, horsemen, to seize Moossa Khan, on the grounds that he was a traitor, who, having received a large sum of money from the Russians, had cheated him. Moossa Khan, hearing of the approach of the Cossacks, escaped into Haji Noor Geldee Khan's house,, but the Cossacks surrounded it, whereupon the Engineer officer came out to interfere ; but as no one heeded him he went to see the General, where a long discussion took place, the officer asking the General why he interfered with the territory and subjects of Persia, to which the General replied that it had been ceded to them (the Russians), On being asked why he had cut away the Attrek dam, he replied, that they were in want of water, and that the Persian Government ought not to object to their getting a supply, for the greatest cordiality existed between the two Governments of Persia and Russia, that it was not worth while to talk about such trivial things, and that he (the officer) was not aware of the true state of things, for they (the Russians) were entitled, because of the good understanding which existed between the two Governments, to much more than these. The Chief of Chat had also sent out several Turkomans of the Eimar tribe to cut grass for fodder; the Goklan horsemen met them, and seized several of their camels. The Chief at Chat sent several times for the camels, but the Goklan people would not give them up. The town has now been in a state of great excitement and disturbance for several days. The people have closed all their shops, at the instigation of those Chiefs who went to complain at Tehran, and wherever any of the Prince Governor's servants may be seen they are attacked. Any provisions entering the town are plundered. The clergy and others, to the number of 2,000 souls, have addressed a petition to the Shah, soliciting him to remove the Prince Governor. On the 27th instant 150 mules arrived from Shahrood ; on their arrival,. the Secretary to the Russian Consul sent to the Foreign Office Agent, and asked for a Gholam to escort the mules to the Prince Governor's camp, whence he was to send tnem, under an escort of Turkomans, to Chekishler. Last night news was received that the Prince Governor was coming to town, and about 1,000 Matchlockmen went out to intercept him. • 111 Inclosure 2 in No. 113. T%e Astemhad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extratit^ Jw/y 7, 1S79. TWO or three days ago news was received from the Turkoman plains, that recently General Lazareff has ta,ken to visiting the Charva Yemoot tribe, and wherever he finds camels or horses fit to work he seizes them, and tells the owners to come to the camp and arrange the terms of sale, or the rate of hire. No. lU. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received August 19.) My Lord, Tehran, July 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose translation of a Eeport which I have received from the Mission Agent at Meshed. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD E. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 114. Thd Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Eitra^t.) July 5, 1879. ' SEVERAL days ago Gholam Hyder Khan, an Agent of Sirdar Eyoub Khan, who had been sent to Khaff to try and persuade those families who emigrated to that place a few months ago, at the time of Sirdar Mohammed Omar Khan's Government, to return to Herat, arrived here. He states that Eyoub Khan instructed him to apply to the Prince Governor and inform me should any diflQ.culty arise in getting the said families to return, for that he had prevailed upon them to do so, but the Governor was disinclined to let them go. I replied in the fijfst place that I could not know whether he was telling the truth, and that the families were willing to return. Secondly, how was I to know that the Sirdar had instructed him to apply to me ? and, thirdly, that the Legation knew nothing of this affair. He therefore intends writing to Herat for instructions. There is no news from Merv of the Russian advance towards Akhal. On the 29th June a report was received through the friends of one of my servants that a Russian, having ten attendants, had arrived at Boojnoord with two loads of money ; that the sum of 7,000 tomans had also been brought for the purchase of or diverting the water of Karee Kaleh. On the evening of the same day the Mirza of the Eelkhanee arrived here, bringing the letters and presents which the Russian General had sent to his master. The Russian General had written to the Eelkhanee to say that the Russian troops would very shortly advance to take Akhal, and that after his (the General's) arrival at Ak T6p^ he would send for him ; that he also sent him a gold and jewelled dagger, forwarding 11,000 tomans for the purchase of provisions. No. 116, The Earl of Dufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury. — [Received August 1 9.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, August 13, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform you that yesterday, in conversation with His Majesty, he was pleased to assure me that there was no intention of the Russian troops advancing on Merv. I have, &c. (Signed) DUEEERIN. 112 No. 116. Th£ Earl of Bufferin to the Marquis of Salisbury.— (Received September I.) My Lord, ^^' Petersburgh, August 26, 1879. I H A.VE the honour to forward herewith to your Lordship a translation by Mr. Michell from Russian newspapers, containing intelligence from General LazarefE's detachment. I have, &c. (Signed) DUFFEIIIN. Inclosure in No. 116. Extract from the " Novoe Vremia" of August ^, 1879. (Translation.) THE "Novoe Vremia" of the ||S August, 1879, published the following informa- tion, which it reproduces from the " Kavkas " newspaper, with respect to General Lazareff's expedition against the Teke Turkomans : — " The departure of the troops from Chekishler for Chat and Duzulum com- menced on the ^th July. They leave in small e'chelons of from two to four companies each, so as to diminish as far as possible the various obstacles and privations encountered on the route in respect to the supply of water, which is obtained from wells situated at intervals of 24 and 35 versts, as also in regard to the means of transport, this latter service being actively engaged at present in forwarding supplies and forage to Chat and Duzulum. The sanitary detachment of the E-ed Cross, with its stores, has left for Chat under the protection of a company of infantry. There is no considerable sickness, so far, among the troops ; cases occur as before of ophthalmia, dysentery, and there have been several cases of scurvy which, on the approach of autumn and the winter season, will attain considerable proportions, and become purely epidemic, the climatic conditions of the place — ^intense heat during the day, and cold and damp nights — tending greatly to develop this disease. Great hopes are placed on the Eed Cross store of anti-scorbutic remedies to combat this complaint. Persons arriving from Chat state that a bad form of dysentery exists there, as also a mysterious fever, which terminates fatally in twenty-five cases out of every hundred. " The telegraphic connection of Chekishler with Asterabad and Tehran and the Indo-European line is nearly completed, and the telegraph wiU shortly be in working order." The " Moscow Gazette " of the 33*4 August publishes the following intelligence from Chekishler : — " Some time ago General LazareflF, the Chief of the detachment, received a letter from Yarmaat TCban of Budjnur, the Chief of three Kurdish tribes on the Persian frontier. This letter was in answer to a communication forwarded from here by Lieutenant Zeinal-vek of the Derbent regiment, who duly reported the cordial reception accorded him by Yarmaat Khan. It is now reported that Zeinal-vek, on his homeward journey from Persia, was attacked by a considerable force of Turkomans and killed, together with his escort, numbering about eight men. - "The same correspondence states that two traction engines are expected at Chekishler to assist in the transport service. Each of these engines is able to draw 600 poods over the sand. They are being adapted at Baku for the use of naphtha fuel-" No. 117. The Earl of Duferin to the Marquis of Salisbury.— (Received September 1.) (Extmct.j St. Petersburgh, August 26, 1819. 1 HAVE the honour to mfoi-m your Lordship that M. de Giers referred yesterday to the terms m which Mr. Stanhope communicated to the House of Commons the assm-auces conveyed to Her Majesty's Government as to the Emperor having no intention of du-ectmg the military expedition now being organized by General • 1 13 Lazareff on the other side of the Caspian against Merv. M. de Giers intimated that he considered that Mr. Stanhope's language went too far; that although he had told me that an advance upon Merv was not contemplated by the Eussian Government, and formed no part of their existing programme, he did not mean to imply that under different circumstances, and in view of unforeseen contingencies, the occupation of Merv might not become necessary ; that in fact the Russian Government had never intended by a solemn pledge, given for all time, to preclude themselves from ever going to Merv. I replied that I hoped the observations he had now, made to me were not intended to impair the bond fide character of his previous assurances on the subject, that His Majesty himself had deigned to inform me that there was no question of a Russian advance upon Merv, that I had transmitted that assurance to your Lordship, and that in spite of what had just fallen from him I presumed that he hfld not been instructed to modify it. M. de Giers answered that he did not desire his remarks to be so interpreted, and that I might rest satisfied that Merv was in no sense the object of General Lazareff's expedition. No. 118. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — [Received September 4.) (Telegraphic.) . St. Petersburgh, September 3, 1879. GENERilL TERGOUKASSOPE succeeds to the command of Russian expedi- tionary forces beyond the Caspian. It will be remembered that he distinguished himself during the late campaign in Asia Minor. Until General Tergoukassoff's arrival General Llamakia will be in command. No. 119. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury.- — {Received September 4.) Mv Lord, St. Petersburgh, August 30, 1879. THE " Journal de St. P^tersbourg '* of yesterday published a lengthy review of the engagements taken by England and Russia respectively with regard to Central Asia. Referring to the explanations recently given by Mr. Stanhope in the House of Commons with regard to the assurances of M. de Giers respecting the Russian . expedition beyond the Caspian, this article went on to inquire whether the altered state of things which the Treaty between the British and Afghan authorities has brought about does not also make a change ia the interests and the obligations of Russia. The journal of this morning publishes a further article on the same subject. I have the honour to inclose herewith copies of these two articles, as well as of one on the same subject which appeared in the " Ageuce Russe" of yesterday. These articles are' the semi-official explanations which this Government seems to think it advisable to add to that which was given by Mr. Stanhope ; and Baron de Jomini expressed to me yesterday his regret that they should not have appeared while the Earl of Bufferin was still here, for he would have wished to have knox^oi the view which his Excellency would take of them. I declined to express any opinion, on the ground that I had not had time to study the articles which had appeared, and that the series was not yet complete. The leading idea of these articles is, that England and Russia should at last abandon their mutual jealousies in Central Asia, and that each should be allowed to do as she pleases on her own side of the zone. It will not, however, escape your Lordship's notice that the spot suggested by the " Agence Russe " where England and Russia shall meet and shake hands'for the benefit of civilization is the top of the Hindoo Koosh. I have, &c. '(Signed) E. R. PLUNKETT. ri27] Q 114. Inclosure 1 in No. 119. Extract from the "Journal de St. Petershourg" of August H and ||, 1879, NOUS avons evit6 d'entretenir nos lecteurs de la confusion que les journaux Anglais font, peut-etre intentionnellement, entre I'exp^dition entreprise par le G^n^ra. Lazareff dans la steppe Turcomane, et la question de Merv. Tontes les publications ofBicielles du Gouyernement Imp&'ial ont suffisamment 6tabli qu'il ne s'agit nuUement de Merv, mais simplement de mettre un terme aux brigandages des Turcomans-T^kes en occupant leurs campements d'hiver le long de I'Attrek et vers la route de caravanes entre Krasnovodsk ot Khiva. II nous a para inutile de compliquer une question d'ordre int^rieur par des considerations politiques qui y sont ^tranglres. 'Cependant nous avons reproduit dans le compte-rendu de I'une des derni^res stances du Parlement Anglais une assertion pr^sent^e du baut de Jia tribune par le Colonel Stanhope et dont le caractfere ofaciel pourrait donner lieu a de fausses inter- pretations. Le Colonel Stanhope a conteste la r^alite du mouvement des troupes Eusses sur Merv. " D'ailleurs," a-t-il ajoute, " le Gouvernement a regu de la Russie les plus formelles assurances que cette Puissance ne s'avancera pas jusqu'a Merv." Devant cette assertion, il ne nous s'emble pas superflu de rappeler la situation de droit resultant des pourparlers qui ont eu lieu eijitre les deux Gouvernements par rapport a cette question. EUe n'a pas 6t6 mentionnee dans les arrangements convenus entre les deux Cabinets a la suite des n^gociations amicales dont I'entrevue personnelle du I*rince Gortchacow avec Lord Clarendon en 1869 a 6te le point de depart. A cette epoque notre mouvement en avant pour rectifier et assurer notre fronti^re en Asie Centrale avait produit en Angleterre une certaine excitation. Le Cabitiet Imperial s'^tait e£Forc6 de la calmer en declarant que la Russie n'avait ni le besoin ni I'iatention d'^tendre ses possessions dans ces contr^es au-dela de ce qu'exigeait la s^curite de ses frontiferes. Sans r^voquer en doute la sinc^rit^ de ces declarations, le Cabinet Anglais, s'appuyant de I'experience que TAngleterre elle-m^me avait faite aux Indes, 'prevoyait que la Eussie serait entrain^e beaucoup plus loin qu'elle ne voulait aUer. II viendrait un moment o^ elle se rapprocberait des Indes de mani^re a alarmer 1' Angleterre sur la s^curite de ses possessions. II pouvait en r^sulter des malentendus, des suspicions, peut-etre des conflits centre lesquels il etait sage de se premunir dans I'inter^t des bonnes relations entre les deux pays. Ce fut la le but des pourparlers entamds entre le Prince Gortchacow et Lord Clarendon. lis avaient pour base la conviction partag^e par ces deux hommes d'Etat qu'il n'y avait aucune necessity d'antagonisme entre la Eussie et I'Angleterre en Asie ; que ee continent etait assez vaste pour que les deux Empires pussent s'y ddvelopper pacifique- ment et meme en se prenant un mutuel concours dans I'interet de la civilisation, II ne s'agissait que de definir leur sphere d'iufluence reciproque. On voulut d'abord revenir a la zone neutre dont le principe avait d^j^ 6t6 pos^ en IBM a la suite du voyage de I'Empereur Nicolas a Londces-, mais on resechit que I'idee de neutrality possible dans I'Europe civilisee etait inapplicable a des Etats semi-barbares. On se contenta de maiatenir une zone intermediaire destinee a preserver les deux Empires d'un contact immediat. On reconnut que cette zone intermediaire serait trouvle si Tiudependance de TAfghanistan etait respectee de part et d' autre. Afin de fixer pratiquement ce principe, on s'entendit pour determiner d'un commun accord les Hmites de 1' Afghanistan. Une fois I'accord etabli, la Eussie s'engagea h. considerer ce pays comme en dehors de sa sphere d'influence. La frontike septen- trionale de I'Afghanistan devint ainsi la limite de la sphere d'influence des deux Empires, et il fut convenu que tous deux emploleraient cette influence des denx c6tes de cette ligne, I'Angleterre a Caboul, la Eussie k Boukhara— ^fin de detoumer les dens: khans de toute intrigue, menace, ou agression reciproques pouvant troubler le repos de I'Asie Centrale. _ De Merv il ne fut pas question. Mais plus tard, h la suite de I'expedition de Khiva, lorsque le Gouvernement Eusse fut amene a entreprendre des reconnaissances militaires dans la steppe Turcomane, afin de mettre la route de caravanes entre Kras- novodsk et Khiva a I'abri des depredations des Turcomans, le General Llamakin ayant pousse une de ces expeditions dans la direction de Merv, le Cabinet de Londres fit amioalement part au Cabinet Imperial des inquietudes qu'^Teillaient nos operations dans ces parages. L'Emir de Caboul en etait alarme. II pr^voyait que les Turcomans de Merv cbercheraient refuge et appui parml les tribus habitant le territoire Afghan, et qu'il en r^sulterait des conflits. ll demandait au Gouvernement des Indes de le garantir centre ces eventualit^s. Le Cabiiiet Imperial r^pondit qu'il n'^tait nullement question de pousser les operations jusqu'a Merv, qu'il devait necessairement se reserver la pleine liberty de son action militaire pour le cas oh. la necessity de cb&tier et de disperser les hordes Turoomanes I'obligerait- a les poursuivre jusque-la, mais que, meine dans ce cas, la Etissie n'ayait ni le besoin, ni I'intention d'ocouper cette localite d'une mani^re permanente. II ajoute que si I'Emir de Caboul appr^hendait cette eventuality, il dependait de lui de I'ecarter e% s'abstenant de tout encouragement, secours, ou assistance aux Turcomans en guerre avec la Russie, et que I'Angleterre, etant toute- pilissante a Caboul, se trouvait en mesure de donner ce conseil a I'Emix et de le faire ^couter. Le Cabinet Anglais repliqua qu'il n'ayait pas de moyens d'action directe sur I'Emir, mais qu'il userait de toute son influence locale pour le detourner de tout acte hostile. Tel fut le resultat des pourparlers entre les deux Cabinets au sujet de I'Asie Gentrale. A la suite des evenements qui ont un moment menace de troubler la paix entre I'Angleterre et la Russie, lorsque la reunion du Congr^s de "Berlin et son issue deja probable enrent detendu cette situation, les deux G-ouvemements s'occup&rent a chercher en commun les bases sur lesquels leurs relations pacifiques pouvaient etre retablies en Asie Centrale. Le Cabinet Anglais ayant formeUement declare qu'il n'entendait pas porter atteinte a I'independance d'Afghanistan, et le Gouyernement Russe ayant de son c6te xappeie sa Mission de Caboul, le statu quo ante se trouyait retabli de fait, ^ ^ II fut' done conyenu par ecrit que, de part et d'autre, on en reyiendrait aux arrangements anterieurs, et le Cabinet de Londres ajouta yerbalement qu'il considerait les idees echangees au sujet de Mery comme faisant partie de ces arrangements. Voila la sitTiation de fait. Quant a la situation de droit, nous repetons qu'elle n'est pas en discussion. Si des eyenements que Ton ne pent pas preyoir tenaient a la poser, elle ne pour- rait, a notre ayis, porter que sur les questions suiyantes : — Etant donne I'accord des deux Gouvernements pour en reyenir au statu quo base sur leurs arrangements anterieurs, quelles sent les modifications que la guerre et la paix entre I'Angleterre et 1' Afghanistan ont pu apporter a ce statu quo. L' Afghanistan peut-il ^tre enyisage comme un Etat reellement independant en presence des conditions d© la paix qu'il a signee ? L'Angleterre ayant obtenu la frontifere scientifique qu'elle jugeait necessaire a la pleine securite de son Empire Indien, a-t-elle les memos yues, les memos appre- hensions, et les m^mes besoins qu'auparayaut pour la garantie de ses legitimes inter^ts? La Russie, de son c6te, doit-elle enyisager la situation nouyeHe creee au centre de TAsie C9mme n'ayant rien change ni a sa position, ni a ses interets, ni par consequent a ses obligations anterieures ? Peut-elle considerer 1' Afghanistan comme ayant conserve le caractfere de la zone intermediaire qu'on etait conyenu de maintenir entres les deux Empires pour les pre^- server d'un contact imimediat et dangereux? Ou bien, en presence de la yalenr offensiye en m6me temps que defensiye de la nouyelle frontiere Indienne, a-t-elle le dfoit et le devoir de fortifier d'autant sa propre defense sans se reg^der comme liee par Tengagement de reyenir au statu quo si profondement altere ? Nous ne pretendons ni poser, ni encore moias resoudre ces questions. C'est la t&che des Cabinets. lis I'accompliront quand et comme ils le jugeront opportun. II n'y : a en tout cas ancun motif de douter que leur solution ne puisse etre trouvee dans les' voieS' d'une entente amicale. Dans notre opinioiu, ces questions, commes toutes celles qui peuvent surgir entre les deux Gouvernements, sont dominees par une question primordiale : — _ L'Angleterre et la Russie sont-elles necessairement appeiees en Asie a un anta- gonisme absolu et irremediable' qui reagirait fatalement sur toute leur politique exte- rieure et sur la pais: dtis monde, ou bien peuvent-elles se partager rinfluence a exercer sur cette immense continent dans I'interet de la civilisation ? Y a-t-il par consequent plus davantage pour elks a entrer dans la voie des [127] Q " A 116 rivalit^, des defiances, et des mauvais proc^d^s r^ciproques qtii, aggrav^ par les exc^- de z^e locaux, amfeneraient des conflits incessants ? Ou bien y a-t-il plus de b^n^fice a marcher honnetement d'accord cbacune dans sa sphere naturelle, en s'entr'aidant mutneUement pour raccomplissement de leur mission civilisatfice ? Ces questions primordiales avaient 6te abord^es entre le Prince Gortchacow et Lord Clarendon dans un esprit 61ev6 de sage moderation. Nous oserons dire qu'eUes avaient eU r^solues dans Tint^ret des deux Empires, comme dans celui de la paix g^n^rale, de la civilisation et de I'liumanite. L'avenir des relations des deux Empires depend de la solution qui y sera donn^e par les bommes d'Etat qui les dirigent, beaucoup plus que des incidents locaux autout desquels la presse fait tant de bruit. Inclosure 2 ia No. 119. Extract from the "Journal de St. Peterslourg" of August -^,1879. NOUS avons derni^rement entretenunoslecteurs de la situation politique resultant des faits passes et presents dont I'Asie Centrale est le theatre. Nous venons de recevoir et de lire une brochure publiee sur le meme sujet par notre jeune et savant Professeur, M. Martens, dont le public Eusse a d6ja 6t6 a m^me d'apprecier les travaux politiques et juridiques. Get opuscule a pour titre: "La Russie et I'Angleterre dans I'Asie Centrale." C'est un expose complet, bas6 sur des documents oflB.ciels, des n^gociations dont la question de I'Asie Centrale a et6 I'objet entre les Gouvemements de Russie et, d'Angleterre. Ajoutons que cet expos6 est fait dans un esprit de haute moderation et de stncte impartiality. Ce n'est poiat un pamphlet politique ni une diatribe passionnee analogue a ceux que plusieurs publicistes Anglais ont derni^rement consacres a ces importantes questions. C'est un jugement cabne au point de vue ^lev^ du droit general et des interets de la civihsation. Nous ne saurions assez en recommander la lecture a tons ceux qui s'lnt^ressent ou prennent part aux discussions que soulfevent les grands evenements qui s'accom- plissent en Asie, et qui mettent en jeu l'avenir de ce continent aussi bien que les rela- • tions des deux Empires appeles a iafluer sur ses destinies . II en ressort deux convictions qui viennent enti^rement a I'appui des observations que nous-memes avons presentees en dernier lieu. La premiere c'est que rien, absolument rien, dans la marche du Gouvememient' Russe, soit sur le terrain diplomatique, soit sur le terrain militaire, ne justifle ni les : alarmes d'une partie de I'opinion pubUque et de la presse Anglaises sur les pr^tendues ambitions de la Russie, ni les accusations d'un manque de parole qui ont etiarticul^esr^ centre le Cabinet de St. Petersbourg. D^s I'origia de son mouvement en avant en Asie Centrale, le Gouvernement" E,usse a use d'une entifere franchise envers le Gouvernement Britannique. II aurait 6t6 parfaitement en droit de r^pondre, aux interpellations qui lui ont 6t6 adress^es, qu'U . n'avait de compte a rendre a personne, et que, de meme qu'il ne sohgeait pas a s'ingerer dans ce que I'Angleterre jugeait a propos de faire aux Indes dans rint^ret de sa prosp^rite ou de sa s^curite, de meme il ne reconnaissait pas au Cabinet de Londres le droit de se meler de ce qu'il croyait n^cessaire de faire en Asie Centrale dans son propre interet. Si neanmoins le Gouvernement Eusse n'a pas us^ de ce droit incontestable, s'il a cm bon d'entrer avec le Cabinet de Londres dans des explications, des ^changes didoes, des pourparlers ^t des assurances r^ciproques, c'est uniquement pour calmer les apprehensions, sans fondement, que toutes les questions relatives a I'Asie ont le- privUege d'exciter en Ajagleterre. N'ayant absolument aucune arriere-pensee, aucune idee, aucune vue hostUe a la domination Anglaise aux Indes ; convaincu tout au contraire de I'interet des deux pays a y entretenir des relations paciflques et une bonne intelligence, persuade enfin que de telles relations, reagissant sur les rapports politiques des deux Empires sur toute la surface du globe, contribueraient a lem- prosperite mutuelle et au maintien de la paix generale, le Gouvernement Eusse n'a fait aucune difficulte pour exposer au Cabinet de Londres les vues qui dirigeaient sa politique en Asie, et pom- lui donner toutes les assurances et toutes les garanties qu'il pouvait desirer, tout en lui reconnaissant la meme Hberte d'action qu'il revendiquait pour lui-meme. Ce but avait ete atteint par les explications amicales echangees entre les chefs • U7 des deux Oatiaets, et il en 6tait r^sult^ un grand apaisement dans I'opinion publique des deux pays. Si oette situation s'est modifi^e depuis lors et si le Gouvernement et le public Anglais sont revenus aux sentiments de defiance, d'liostilit^, d'antagonisme et aux proc^dds agressifs des anciens temps, cela doit ^tre attribu^ a des circonstances que nous ne voulons pas rappeler ici, mais dont la Eussie a le droit de r^pudier la responsabilit^. Nous aimons mieux nous arreter ^ la seconde conviction qui ressort des conclu- sions du travail de M. Martens, savoir : Qu'aucune id^e ne pent etre plus insens^e, plus fausse, et plus fatale que celle d'une incompatibility quelconque d'int^rets entre la Eussie et I'Angleterre en Asie. Que loin d' avoir aucun avanlngek se contrecarrer mutuellement dans cescontr^es, les deux Empires sont li6s par une solidarity absolue, et que I'un ne saurait ^prouver aucun dommage sans que I'autre n'en ressente un 6gal prejudice. Que la Eussie, obHg^e de maintenir dans I'ob^issance une nombreuse population Musulmane plac^e k une distance considerable du centre de I'Empire et de I'initier h une. civilisation contraire a ses traditions et a ses moeurs, ne pent ne gagner aux efforts correspondants de I'Angleterre dans ses immenses possessions Indiennes, et qu'elle verrait sa domination dans 1' Asie Centrale compromise et menac^e si, le pouvoir de llAngleterre aux Indes se trouvant ^branl^, les 200,000,000 de Musulmanes et d'Hindous qui I'habitent venaient h retomber dans leur barbaric originelle. Que, pareillement, I'Angleterre ayant a gouverner, ei contenir, a civiliser avec 100,000 Europ^ens une immense population ^trang^re a sa langue, h son culte, a ses moeurs, et plac6e a une distance ^norme de la m^tropole, serait eipos^e h, des dangers s,6rieux le jour ou la domination Eusse dans I'Asie Centrale se trouvait compromise soit par un soulfevement des kbanats indigenes, qui ne manquerait pas d' avoir son contrecoup aux Indes, soit par une guerre heureuse que I'Angleterre ne pourrait entreprendre et accomplir autrement que par les mains de ses contingents indigenes auxquels elle rev^lerait ainsi le secret de leur force et de sa faiblesse. Que, par consequent, les deux Empires, au lieu de se nuire a eux-memes par une rivalite contraire a leurs plus cbers int^r^ts, ont tout avantage a s'appuyer I'un sur Tautre dans I'acoomplissement de leur mission Asiatique. Nous nous associons de tout notre coeur et de toute notre raison a oes conclusions- de M. Martens. Nous sommes persuades que le jour oii des id^es de simple bon sens pen^treront- dans les esprits, la politique de nuisance r^ciproque qui a deja oaus6 tant de mal aux deux pays et a I'humanite deviehdra absolument impossible. M. le Professeur Martens se trouve actuellement a Bruxelles pour prendre part aux travaux du Congrfes du droit international. Parmi les questions dont s'occupera cette reunion scientifique figure la neutralisa- tion du Canal de Suez . Nous avons d^ja reproduit une correspondance ecbang^e entre M. Martens et un des membres Anglais du Congr^s, sur cette importante question, Qu'U nous soit permis d'yaj outer Une reflexion qui a peut-Mre ^cbapp^ au savant professeur lorsque, a I'occasion de la neutralisation du Canal de Suez, U a rappel6 I'exemple, de la neutralisation de la Mer Noire par le Traits de 1856. Un des Articles de ce Traits stipulait en effet que la Mer Noire, ouverte au commerce de toutes les nations, serait neutralis^e &, tout jamais,;c'est-a-dire, interdite aux navires de guerre strangers. Cependant, un autre Article du m^me Traits stipulait que les Detroits du Bospborfe et des Dardanelles seraient ferm6§ en temps de paix aux navires de guerre de toutes les nations. Voila done une mer neutralis^e a perpetuity, et les detroits qui y donnent accfes armes seulement en temps de paix, ou, autrement dit, ouverts en cas de guerre a la marine militaire. Nous ne croyons pas qu'il soit possible d'imaginer une contradiction plus flagrante, indiquantun plus complet oubli des notions du 'droit public.^ Et pourtant ces stipulations ont ete sanctionnees par une reunion des bommes d'Etat les plus ^minents de I'Europe, dans les circonstances les plus solenneUes. Et cette prescription strange a pu etre maintenue et respect^e pendant quatorzeans comme une des bases du droit public Europeen. ll est a esp^rer qu'en discutant le principe d'une neutralisation du Canal de Suez, on ne tbmbera pas dans les m^mes erreurs, et que du moins les representants du droit, sauront les ^viter mieux que la diplomatic. 118 Inclosure 3 in No. 119. Extract from the " Agence Riisse." St. Petsrshourg, Jeudi soir, le if Aout, 1879. La EtrssrE et l'Angleteree dans l'Asie Centeaxe. — Tel est le titre d'une remarquable 6tude, qui, publics d'abord en article dans la " Kevue de Droit Inter- national et de Legislation Compar^e," vient de parattre en brochure en Belgique.* Elle est de M. Martens, Professeur de Droit International a notre University de- St. P^tersbourg, C'est dire que, concue uniquement au point de vue du droit et de la r^alite des faits, elle est Merita avec'la bauteur de vues du penseur et rimpartialit^" du savant. Nous en reconunandons d'autant plus volontiers la lecture attentive que nous sympatbisons davantage avec ses premisses et ses conclusions. , L'auteur part du moment oil, au lendemain du Oongr^s de Berlin, la ^ presse Europeenne en g6n6ral, et en particulier la presse Anglaise, retentirent du bruit de la Mission a Caboul du General Stol^toff et, s'appuyant uniquement sur des documents officiels Anglais, il prouve que cette Mission, provoqu^e par la nouvelle politique Anglaise, qui venait de rompre les engagements r^ciproques convenus entre la Russie' et I'Angleterre en 1869 et 1875 par rapport a l'Asie Gentrale, n'avait si bien 6t6 re^ue par Sbir-Ali que parce que Lord Lytton, aiasi que Lord Argyll I'a publiquement declare lui-meme depuis, avait intentionnellement tout fait pour forcer I'Emir de I'Afgbanistan a se jeter dans le bras de la Eusi^e afin d'y trouver le pretexte a I'inter- vention qu'il meditait. Cette nouvelle politique de I'Angleterre se trouve actuellement accomplie par' le* Traits de Paix signe avec le Gr6n6ral Cavagnari par le nouvel Emir Yakoub Ebani- L'auteur cite plusieurs Articles de ce Traite, entre autres les Articles III, lY, et T, et prouve que I'^tat actuel et futur qu'il cr^e, et qui fait de I'Afgbanistan une province^ Anglaise, reduit a n^ant le modus vivendi resultant des Conventions de 1869 et' de 1875, d'apr^ lesqueUes 1' Afghanistan devait former comme un terrain neutre entre' les possessions Anglaises et les possessions Eusses, et cela d'aprfes les plus manifestes professions de foi du Gouvemement Anglais qui, lors de la mission StoMtofE, ne cessa de protester centre ce qu'il appelait alors une " violation de 1' accord et des engage^ ments conclus a I'^gard de rAfghanistan."t Et l'auteur de se demander si cette' nouvelle politique de I'Angleterre et ce Traits qui en est la sanction mat^rielle, lesqueUes rapprochent actuellement les possessions Anglaises des possessions RusseSj entre lesqueUes nagufere encore le grand d^sir de tout homme d'Etat Anglais ^tait de placer une espfece de tampon, doivent servir a I'antagonisme ou au rapprochement des deux grands Etats a qui parait d^volue la grande t^che de porter la civilization dans I'extreme orient ; si, en un mot, ils doivent donaer raison ou tort aux partis extremes et chauvins Anglais et Busses, Eussophobes et Anglophobes, qui y voient les premiers, un coup " mortel " port6 au prestige de la Eussie en Asie, les autres, un acheminement vers la destruction par la Eussie de la puissance Britannique aux Indes. L'auteur se declare d^s I'abord d'un avis diam^tralement oppos6 a ces deux opinions egalement passionn^es, egalement extremes,, et il le fait dans des termes que nous aimons a reproduire : — " Cependant on doit se demander laquelle est la vraie de ces deux opinions, si divergentes dans leur point de depart et si conformes dans leurs conclusions finales ? Est-il r^eUement vrai qu'une lutte entre la Eussie et I'Angleterre sur les bords de r Indus est une n^cessite absolue, et xme implacable fatality ? Ces deux GrandeEF Puissances civilis6es sont-eUes vraiment et in^vitablement forc6es par une loi immuable de donner aux peuples sauvages de l'Asie le triste spectacle d'une lutte ^oham^e, impitoyable ? Est-U digne de la civilisation Europeenne dont I'Angleterre et la Eussie* sont les seuls representants dans l'Asie Centrale, d'^voquer les instincts pervertis des hordes Asiatiques et de profiter de la haine sauvage que ces barbares portent a toutes les nations Chretiennes et civilisees ? A-t-on serieusement refl^chi sur cette question : qui done profitera, en demifere analyse, de cette lutte entre I'Angleterre et la Eussie; laquelle de ces deux Puissances, rest^e victorieuse sur le champ de bataille, sera en etat de retenir sous sa domination toutes les nations Asiatiques et toutes les tribus piUardes et sauvages au concours desqueUes elle devra ses succ^s ? II suf&t de rMechir serieusement sur ces questions pour se convaincre qu'une lutte entre la Eussie et * Gand. Imprimerie Van Doosselaere, Rue de Bruges 35. 1879. t Depeche de Lord A. Loftus au Marquis de Salisbury, en date du 27 Septembre, 1878 — ("Correspondence respecting Central Asia, No. 2, 1878," p. 7, No 2.) ' - 119 TAngleterre dans I'Asie Centrale serait poiir les deux pays une calamity immense. Quant a nous, plus nous arons ^tudi6 I'^tat des olioses en Asie, plus il nous a 6t6 ^possiblede suiyrela marche progressive des conqu^tes Busses et Anglaises dans cette partie du monde, plus nous avons dt(6 en ^tat d'approfondir les mobiles de la politique •Rusee et les aspirations reelles de la nation E-usse, et plus nous sommes conyaincu que la conquete des Indes n'a jamais ^t^'le but r^el et primitif de la politique Russe ; qu'une guerre entre la Eussie et I'Angleterre dans I'Asie Centrale serait une calamity incalculable pour les deux Puissances, et que les nations sauvages indigenes profl- teraient seules r^ellement des victoires d^cisives remport^es par I'un des bellig^rantg. lEn adoptant ce point de vue, qui malbeureusement n'a pas trouv^ jusqu'a present une appreciation juste et complete, nous osons poser comme tb^se irrefutable que les interetsg^neraux de la civilisation sont paarfaitement indiqu^s aux int^rets pariicu- liers on nationaux dela Eussie et de rAngleterredans la question de I'Asie Centiale; les uns comme les autres exigent peremptoirement de ces deux Grandes Puissances qu'elles mettent de c6te toute orainte mesquine, toute jalousie puerile, et toute aspiration belliqueuse. Leur mission en Asie leur impose le devoir imp^rieux d'agir d'un commun accord a regard des pays Asiatiques ; leurs iut^rets vrais et r^els leur conseillent de se tendre mutuellement la main sur le sommet de I'Hindou Kouscb et de defendre virilement leurs conqu^tes faites au nom de la civilisation et de I'bumanite ; I'avenir de I'Asie et le sort futur de leurs possessions obligent la Russie et I'Angle- terre a ne perdre jamais de vuelle r61e sublime que la Providence divine leur a traq^ pour le bien des nations demi-sauvages et barbares de eette partie du monde. Plus I'Angleterre et la Bussie seront pdnetrees du sentiment de la solidarite de leurs int^r^ts T^ciproques en Asie, plus elles.se convaincront que le trait caracteristiquede la civilisation est Tesprit de cooperation pour le meme but eievd, plus deviendront solides les bases de leur domination sur les peuples Asiatiques, et plus seront efficaces les garanties de la paix gen^rale en Eurtupe et en Asie." Arre tons-nous a ces declarations si justes, si vraies, et si parfaitement d'accord avec nos plus intimes convictions. L'auteur les reprend plus loin a la finde son interessante et savante demonstratioa a titre de deductions et de conclusions, et y insiste d'une mani^re particulifere. II nous est impossible de reproduire ici dans letirs details cette demonstration et ces deductions ; il nous faudrait copier la brocbure enti^re. Bornons-nous a dire que la situation materielle actuelle des deux Puissances en presence I'une de I'autre lui parait devoir Mre deflnie, que dette definition doit etrq trouvee ailleurs que dans les fausses combinaisons jusqu'ici inventees et surtput dans un autre esprit que eelui qm les a enfantees; et cet esprit doit 6tre, selon lui fet egalement selon nous, celui qui nattra de I'abandon definitif par I'Angleterre de I'idee preeongue et radicalement f ausse que la presence des B,usses en Asie Centrale est nuisible a ses interets et n'a d'autre but que son affaiblissement aux Indes. Une fois I'esprit de confiance remplagant I'esprit de defiance, Faccord a etablir entre les deux Puissances nalt du contact m^me de leurs possessions et de leurs interets dfes lors identiques : — " Ce contact de leurs possessions aura I'efPet le plus beureux sur leur politique tant en Asie qu'en Europe, en leur rappelant toujours et a cbaque moment qu'elles sont voisines, qu'elles ont des irlterets importants k defendre, et que cette defense ne saurait etre efficace que moyennant le respect de leurs interets individuels. Le voisi- nage immediat de la Bussie et de I'Angleterre en Asie doit, d'une part, forcement inspirer au Gouvernement Anglais un plus grand respect des droits de la Bussie et, d'autre part, obHger cette derni^re Puissance a ebarter toute idee hostile aux interets Britanniques en Asie. En un mot, par ce contact des possessions Anglaises et Busses dans I'Asie Centrale, I'Angleterre, ayant perdu sa situation insulaire, se verra forcee d'abandonner sa politique insulaire.* La Bussie, gr&,ce a ce voisinage, sera mieux garantie dans le respect de ses droits et se convaincra peu a peu que la securite de ses propres possessions en Asie depend essehtiellement de la domination de I'Angleterre sur des nations Asiatiques comptant plus de 200,000,000 d'atnes. Sur cette base un accord entre la Bussie et I'Angleterre sera non-seulement possiblci mais ausgi durable." Et pour etayer eette demonstration d'une preuve irrecusable, le savant auteur ajoute : — . ^ " II est indispensable, en premier lieu, que les deux Grandes Puissances se con- vainquent de cette verite absolue et irrefiltdble, qu'une lutte entre elles en Asie serait, en demi^re analyse, le commencement de la fin de leur domination dans eette partie * Un peu plus haut l'auteur avait demontre que cette situation insulaire de I'Angleterre in fluait d'une maniSre fdcheuse sur sa politique, en ce sens qu'elle la rendait insensible et comme 'etrang^re aux interets des autres. 120 du monde. Le jour ou la Eussie triomphera de I'Angleterre dans I'Asie Centrale, elle sera a la veille de la cMte de sa propre autorit6 dans ces contr^es. Le jour oii I'Angleteire aura obtenu une victoire decisive sur la Russie, les Indes Britamdques seront a mi-chemin de leur d^Hvranee du joug Anglais." Cette th^se, I'auteur la demontre de la fa9on la plus irrefutable. L'arm^e Anglaise qui combattrait la Eussie en Asie Centrale serait en majorite recrut^e dans la poptilatiDn indigene. En cas de victoire ceUe-ci s'en appliquerait tout le m^rite et c'est alors seulement qu'elle aurait, ce qui lui manque jusqu'ici, la conscience de sa force num^rique, qui lui inspirerait aussit6t le sentiment et le d6sir de son ind^pen- dance. Dans le cas inverse, c'est-a-dire, si c'est la Eussie qui, franchissant les fron- tiferes Anglaises et appelant les Indous a la r^volte, triomphe de I'Angleterre, quelle ne sera pas sa faiblesse et son impuissance avec ces 200,000,000 d'hommes, qui haisseiit egalement Anglais et Eusses, comme Cbr^tiens et Europ^ens, venant accroitre le poids deja trop lourd de ses annexions et I'^tendue d6ja trop grande de son territoire ? Ces reflexions, I'auteur les recommande a ceux qui, aussi bien en Angleterre qu'en Eussie, poussent aux mesures extremes et a I'bostilite entre les deux pays. Plus loin I'axiteur avait demontre par des faits et des citations combien dans les knanats, en Afghanistan et aux Indes, les populations Asiatiques avaient conscience de la rivalite existant entre la Eussie et 1' Angleterre, et combien ils en profitaient. En terminant son remarquable etude il ajoute : — " Les adversaires implacables, tant de la Eussie que de I'Angleterre, peuvent seuls f avoriser le developpement de cette conviction dans les pays Asiatiques et donner au3: populations barbares et fanatiques de ces pays des preuves qu'un antagonisme profond divise,les deux Gouvemements civilises de I'Asie Centrale. Plus cette intelli- gence de I'animosite existant entre les deux Grandes Puissances Europeennes se repandra au sein des peuples Asiatiques, plus ces Puissances perdront de terrain en Asie, plus leur domination sera mise en p^nl." No. 120. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received September 6.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, September 1, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith translation from the "Journal de St. Petersbourg " of a letter from Chekishler, published in the I' InvaUde Eusse," giving an account of a dispute with a Persian Engineer, who had been sent by his Govern- ment to build a fort on a spot near the Attrek, which the Eussians claim to belong to them. • I have, &c. ' (Signed) E. E. PLUNKETT. Inclosure in No. 120. Extract from the "Journal de St. Pe'tersbourg " of August ^, 1879. y L'INVALIDE EUSSE " recoit de son correspondant a TchikischHar le r^cit suivant : — " Les autorites Persanes ne se montraient jamais jusque dans ces demiers temps parmi la population Turcomane, qu'elles consideraient comme leur etant soumise. On sait que depuis I'annee 1869 1' Attrek sert de frontifere entre notre territoire et celui de la Perse, et que par consequent le pays situe entre ce fleuve et Gurg^ne est consideie comme appartenant a la Perse. Les Persans ont construit a Gurgfene un fort qui porte le nom de Ah-Kala, mais ils n'osent pas se montrer au nord de cet ouvrage; si Ton a jamais vu des Persans a cet endroit, ce n'est qu'avec une chalne au cou, c^t-a- dire a titre de prisonniers des Turcomans, et s'il arrive au Gouvemeur-General de se rendre a Ah-Kala, il n'y vient jamais qu'avec une escorte de trois a quatre miUe hommes. " Chaque fois que nous avons occupe Tclukischliar, les depredations des Turco- mans dans la Province d'Astrabad ont diminue et ont meme cesse tout-a-fait, et pourtant les fonctionnaires Persans n'en continuaient pas moins a rester sous la protec- tion du fort precite. ActueUement, les autorites Persanes ayant appris que nos troupes « 121 ''"'^^'^ cl6barquaient a TcliikJ.soliliar sous les ordres du General Lazarew, elles out fait lettr apparition, non-seulement au nord de Gurg^ne, mais meme au nord de I'Attrek, c'est- a-dire sur notre territoire. " Ainsi on vit arriver a Hassan-Kouli, au mois de Juin, un certain Asker Khan, Ing^nieur-M^canicien du Gouvernement Persan, qui d^clara etre charg^ de la construc- tion d'une forteresse a cet endroit et de trois autres ouvrages fortifiiSs sur le cours de I'Attrek. Asker Khan d^clara au maitre de police local qu'il se trouvait sur le terri- toire de la Perse et qu'il n'avait pas du tout I'intention 'de se presenter aux autorit^s Eusses. Pendant que notre offioier, faisait son Rapport au G6n6ral Lazarew, Asker Khan quitta Etassan-Kouli et se mit a faire des travaux pr^paratoires a 7 verstes de Tchikischliar. Invito de nouveau a se rendre h notre camp, I'lngenieur-M^canicien afl3.rma, devant le Chef de nos troupes, que Hassan-Kouli appartenait a la Perse et qu'il 6tait dans son droit en refifcant d'oh^ir a un General Eusse sur le territoire Persan. On piit sous les yeux d' Asker Khan la carte du pays et on lui proposa meme, s'il ne croyait pas aux cartes Russes, de lui montrer la meme carte de provenance Ahglaise. Prenant en mains notre carte, I'officier Persan trouva lui-meme I'Attrek, montra du doigt le cours de ce fleuve jusqu'a son embouchure dans la mer, et tracant une ligne au nord de Hassan-Kouli, qui se trouye sur le cap iovm.6 par I'embouchure du fleuve, d^olara trioinphalement que ce village appartenait a son Gouvernement. " Nous lui fimes observer que s'il poussait sa ligne droite a travers la mer de plus loin, la Perse pourrait bien poss^der de la meme mani^re non-seulement le Lenooran, mais aussi Bakou ; que dans tous les pays du monde le bord de la mer est consid^r6 comme fronti^re et qu'en tragant sa. ligne il lui fallait suivre le bord du Golfe de Hassan-Kouli pour se convaincre alors de nos droits sur ce village. Asker Khan paru d^contenanc^, puis il nous d^clara qu'il poss^dait une vieille carte qui sert, affirma-t-il, k toutes les autorit^s de la Perse et sur laqueUe le Golfe d'Hassan-Kouli n'est pas indique, I'Attrek tombe directement dans la mer et passe au nord du village en ques- tion. On lui r^pondait que ce qui existait autrefois ne changeait rien a I'actualitd, que Ton raconte aussi jusqu'a present que la mer d^ferlait a I'endroit meme ou nous nous trouvions avec lui et meme plus a Test encore, que nous devious apprecier la surface de la terre sous son aspect actuel et que par consequent Hassan-KouJi se trouvait sur notre territoire. Asker Khan a-t-il et6 convaincu par nos demonstrations ? c'est difficile a dire, mais il a produit sur nous tous Tinipression d'un homme comme il faut. Le G^n^ral Lazarew I'a trfes-bien re9u, lui a fait cadeau d'une montre en or et I'a laiss6 repartir tranquillement pour sa patrie." No. 121. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received September 11.) My Lord, Tehran, August 3, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith copies of letters which I have received from. Herat and from the Mission Agent at Meshed. I have, &c. (Signed) EONALD P. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 121. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) July 5, 1879. TWO days ago a servant of Ameer Yakoub Khan arrived here, bringing letters dated the 18th June, he (the Ameer) having entered Oabul the day before. In these he stated that peace had been concluded with the English Government, and that the EngKsh troops had quitted Jellalabad, Kurum, and Zermat for Peshawur ; that those at Candahar would also leave after a month. Sirdar Eyoub Khan had a salute of 101 guns fired yesterday afternoon, and to-night the citadel and town are to be illuminated. One of the conditions of the Treaty is that the Ameer is not to molest any of those who have been in communication with the English. By [127J R 122 making this stipiQation tliey have attached every one to their caiise, and every one trusts in the British Government. Two days ago sis Cahul regiments left here for that place. Inclosure 2 in No. 121. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) (Extract.) July 12 1879. YESTERDAY Ameer Mahommed, one of Sirdar Eyoub Khan's chamberlains who had been sent to Cabul, returned. There was no fresh news, except that the Ameer wishes three more Cabul regiments, with six mountain guns, to be sent to him. The Sirdar is, however, awaiting fresh orders as to whether he is to send them by Candahar or via Hezareh. Sirdar Eyoub Khan also intends proceeding to Cabul. He first wrote requesting to be summoned to Cabul, but his advisers tore up the letter. He has now addressed other letters, and asked his mother to make a personal intercession with the Ameer, so that he may send for him. Inclosure 3 in No. 121. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) July 12, 1879. DUIIING the last week several merchants came in from Herat; they, reported that six Cabulee regioients had been sent to Cabul. Last night a man arrived from Boojnoord. He informed me that news having been received by the Eelkhanee that a considerable body of Turkomans had moved with the intention of making a raid upon Samalkan, the Eelkhanee had gone there to meet them, and that there a Turkoman, who had come from Chat and Karee Kaleh, came to the Eelkhanee and reported that about 3,000 of the T4ke Turkomans had come to Karee Kaleh, that seven regiments of Ethis point iEussian columns might have advanced partly along the Oxus to Balkh and (Andhoi, ue., by the road followed by Nadir Shah in 1740, and partly to Ohardjui, and forcing the steppe could have .penetrated into the Parapamiz Passes, whidh cover Herat, through Ma^-i-^eeref and Meimaneh. " The 'Mter route h.as not long since been surveyed. It is shorter than the other reads to Merv Ifrom Ohardjui, desciibed by Burns and Abbott, and do not present many difficulties. Nadir Shah overcame them on his return to Meshed from Khiva. "!Both rotttes, 'however, are not free from danger so long as "the Kara-T6k^s remain our neighbours. It is only the success of the present T6k6 expeditioli that can make these roads available. In the contrary case we shall have in the rear of our right flank a Qf which, both Mazanderan and Asterabad have been considerably drained. The Turkoman further informed me that, with, the exception of Nazar €hesma,,w'bo is the Chief of about 600 families, and who had joined the Russians, all the rest of the Akhal Turkomans had retired towards Merv, where great preparations- were being made to oppose the Russians. A levy of 18^000 horsemen had been made at Merv, that is, one man out of every nine familieSi Before retiring upon Merv the Akhals are said to have diestroyed all the wells,, but as the line of march of the Russian Army wi 1 necessarily be along the skirt of the lofty rangp of mountains stretching between Kizil Arvat, and Boojnoordj they will have little need of the wells in the desert. He also reports that a cable had been successftiUy laid in the Caspian, connecting Chekishler with Bakou, and that already five farsakhs of wire had been put up in the direction of Aster'abad, which town it is proposed to connect with Bakou and Europe. This new line will not, apparently, be carried on towards Merv for the present. ' N.o. 143.. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received October 14.) (Exttect:) - Tehran, August 29', 1879!. r HAVE the honour to iajctosey for y«#r' Lordship's information, translation of tetters which I have received^ from Herat and' fi?om the Meshed Agenti Inclosure 1 in No. 1431 LeUer reeevBed'from Herat, July 21, 1879. fl^anslation.) FO0R' day& ago two'couriers a?rrived from Ameer Yakoob Khan. From the letters tftey brought it appeared that the B*ritish troops at Jellalabad and Gundamuk i,had left for Pesha-wur, and that those at Candahar were preparing to leave for Qnettah. ] 152 All the Sirdars, &c., who had quitted Candahar, are now leaving Herat for that place. A Candahar regiment which was also at Herat, has been ordered to go back to Candahar, Khan Agha, of the Jemsheedee tribe, had also written to his family that the Ameer intends coming to Herat, \\k Turkestan, by the 4th or 5th of August, and that he would be in attendance on him also. Some days ago a dispute arose between a Heratee and a Cabulee officer, and the men of both regimenfs joining, a great tumult would have arisen, had not HafizuUah Khan, the officer second in command, gone and appeased them. During the whole time that the regiments of Cabul have been stationed at Herat, they have made themselves so very obnoxious to the inhabitants, that they are all ready to fall upon and put them to death. In my opinion, Ameer Yakoob Khan will come to Herat about the beginning of September, and he will be accompanied by an English officer of rank, who will remain here, and who will hoist the British flag. Inclosure 2 in No. 143. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. -^fTranslation.) ■ (Extract.) August 9, 1879. FIVE days ago several Turkoman traders came in from Merv. Amanbair, of the Kebkeha tribe, had written a letter to me. The traders came to me saying Taj eJirdar was coming to Serrekhs with his tribe, as also was Baba Khan, the son of Kousheed Khan, with his tribe and followers, and that the other Chiefs would be sure to follow, and asked what the Russians would do with such T4k6 families as they might find at Merv, when they advanced upon that place, and what the intention of the English Government was as regards Merv. I replied that I did not know. Four days ago the second Khaseh iregiment arrived from Seistan. The Prince Governor's Moonshee, Mirza Hadee, who had gone with instrnctions •respecting the supply or non-supply of grain to Boojnoord, returned here a week ago, the Governor had given 200 tomans in cash and a valuable horse. I hear from Buojnoord that Khanlar Khan Serteep arrived there from Tehran on the 31st July. He gave out that every one was free to dispose of his grain. He will also go to Koochau whence he will return here. On the 26th July four Elders arrived from Merv to ascertain about the advance of the Russian troops. Three of them have since gone back. They said that they would go and bring 20,000 horse and foot against the Russians. On the 28th July a person came in from Karee-Kaleh with the news that the Russians had taken the place, that Yacoob Bey, with 1,000 Circassian horsemen and one infantry regiment were stationed at Char Bagh, outside of Karee-Kala, that he had beaten and punished several of the Elders, and that the General is at Chekishler. The general intends marching from there ■jon about the 20th August. Inclosure 3 in No. 143. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) (Extract.) August 9, 1879. A MAN who had been to the Akhal country returned here on the 7th instant. He stales that if he had a good horse he could go and come back in twenty-two days. He reports that having gone to Boormeh he saw Eivez Murad Taklim^ Sirdar. He said that some time ago Soofee Khan, Chief of Kizil Arvat, having gone with twenty horsemen to (he Russian General, with the intention of submission, the General had told him that, his tribe having removed to the desert, there was no good in his coming alone, and that Soofee Khan had returned displeased. Eivez Murad Sirdar professed great hostility to the Russians. Amongst the people inhabiting the lower Akhal it was said that Eivez Murad Sirdar, Soofee Khan, Khan Mohamed Atalek, and Khoda Verdee were desirous to submit to the Russians ; but my informant tells me that this is xmtrue, for one day Eivez Murad Sirdar reproached the people at a general assembly, saying, "You all state that I am on friendly terms with the Russians, although*none of your Chiefs has shown a greater desire for fighting than 153 myself." The people, on bearing this, hung down their faces with shame. He further informs rae that Eivez Murad Sirdar is a very great man amongst his tribe, and is highly r6vered by all the Turkomans, that he had sent away his family, with those of his tribe to the desert, and that he inquired what were the intentions of England towards the Akhal Turkomans. He also reports that whilst he was at Boormeh the Sii'dar deceived intelligence that the Russians had come to Karee-Kala, and they were making the roads passable for the troops and guns and that the*T6k6 Turkomans were constantly hovering around the Russian camp, and carrying off whatever they could. After remaining two days at Boormeh, he returned. On his way he met Avaz Mahomed Sirdar, who had, out of enmity, declared that Eivez Murad Sirdar and the other above-mentioned Chiefs were friends with the Russians. No. 144 Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received October 14.) My Lord, Tehran, August 29, 1819. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lorship's information, translation of a Report which I have received from the Asterabad Agent. It is not improbable that the 12,000 troops referred to by the Agent as forming the division under General Llamaldn consist in reality of twelve battalions, which, according to other information, numbered at the outset 450 each. 1 am informed that the 500 families of Jaaferbaiand Atabai tribes who are reported by the Agent to have joined the'T^ke Turkomans were residing on the Attrek, not at Karee-Kala, and had left their own districts to escape from Russian oppression. . ., It had been reported to the agent that the Russian advanced detachment at Uozolum had been prevented from joining the main body, owing to an outbreak of disease. , , I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD E. THOMSON. Inclpsure in No. 144. The Asterabad Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) August 18, 18*19. ACCORDING to news received -from the plains, General Llamakin started on the 7th instant with 12,000 troops for the Tek^ plains. General Lazareff was to have followed wfith the rest of the troops on the 1.5th. General Llamakin is encamped to the eastward of Karee-Kala. On the same day that he started the Teke horserneiji attacked the stragglers and three Yemoot Turkomans of the Jaaferbai tribe, and carried off some of his stores. Five hundred families of the Charva tribe of Jaaferbai and Atabai who resided in the neigbourhood of Karee-Kala, have also joined the Teke Turkomans Ihrough fear of Russian oppression. They took with them SOO camels belonging' to the Russian Master of Caravans (Caravan Bashi). General Lazareff has ordered the latter to go after these families, and having re-assured them, to bring them back. It is not probable that he will succeed, and in any case he will run great risk if he goes after them. On the 13th instant, two Russian Armenians and two Yemoot Turkomans went among the tribes residing at Karee-Kala from General Llamakin's camp, taking 1.200 roubles in silver and notes, intending to purchase sheep, cattle, &c. The Tek^ Turkomans, however, attacked them and carried off their money. The two Yemoots escaped through the fleetness of their horses, but the Armenians were killed. . 1 It is reported that the Russian troops are marching by the route indicated by M. Bakouline, leaving to their right the frontiers of Nardin,. Jajerm, Boojnoord, and so bn to Dereghez, and to their left the Turkoman country. Tokhm6 Sirdar, who has for some years past professed a friendship for the Russians,; lias collected about 600 families around liim, and considers himself to be in safety. Disease having broken out in the detachment which had previously gone to Doz Olum, which is situated to the west of Karee-Kala, it has been unable to join the main body of troops. . [127] X 154 No. 145. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received October 14.) My Lord^ Tehran, Septemb&r 1, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that Mr. Consul Churchill has reported that he has heard that a disease of a peculiarly violent character has broken out among the troops at Chat) and that it has been found necessary to form two camps in order to isolate the regiments affected. Mr. Churchill's son, who has lately been to Chekishler, reports that there afe eight light field guns, 400 CossackSj 100 Turkomansj and three battalions of infantry thei'e. He describes the camp as being in an unhealthy state, and that putrifying bodies of animals are lying in every direction. He noticed that the soldiers he saw were very young. The Russians aye, he says, constructing a field telegraph line between Chat to Chekishler. I have, &c. (Signed) EONALD E. THOMSON. N0.M6, Mr* R. Thomson td the Marquis of Salisbury. — (ReCeiued October 14.) lly Lord, Tehran, September 1, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose hefSwith a Eeport by Mr. Sidney Churchill, son of Her Majesty's Consul at Asterabad, giving an account of his late visit to Chekishler. Mr. Sidney Churchill was sent by his father to procure iiifortQation as to thfe Russian movements on the Attfek, andj considering his youth^^he is only just 17 — the heat of the season, the risk he ran in passing through the Turkoman tribes, and the interesting account he has given of his visit to Chekishler, I venture to hope that yoilr Lordship vsdll agfee with me in thinking that he has acquitted himself very creditably of the mission entrusted to him. 1 have, &c. (Signed) EONALD E. THOMSON. Inclosure in No. 146. Report on the Movements of th6 Russian Army on the Attreh i LEET Ak Kaleh for Chekishler with an escort of five Afghans and six Turkomans, kindly furnished me by Mustafa Kuli Khan, the Governor of Asterabad, who appeared to be very friendly disposed towards the English ; at least, he repeatedly gave me that assurance. After a ride of eight hours I reached the Attrek, and was inf orined that a Eussian contractor was also there. I was informed by him that the rearguard of the Eussian army was at a place called Delira, some 4 farsakhs off. He further observed that 1 had come at a very bad time, as everyone had gone forward, and that General Lazareff alone had remained behind, suffering from a large tumour on his hip, but that he would also be on his way to Delira on the following day. This contractor was engaged in. purchasing cattle, sheep, grass, and hay from the Turkomans. After two hours' march from the Attrek I came upon a Eussian station ; this is the turning-point from Chekishler to Chat. All Eussian troops marching in the direction of Chat halt at this place, where water is to be had. The duty of the detach- ment, consisting of about sixty men, is to keep in proper condition the wells sunk there, which, on account of the vegetable matter soon created, have to be renewed very frequently. A short distance from this, on my way to Chekishler, I met a detachment of the Eield Telegraph Corps, consisting of about sixty men. They were engaged in making holes for the telegraph posts, and 14 J miles of wire had already be^ put up. On the way I met a convoy of 180 waggons going to Chat. I subsequently learnt that they have 800 waggons of various descriptions, and several carriages on elastic poles instead of springs for the use of General Lazareff and his staff. This mode of convey- ance will have to be abandoned beyond Chat, ag the country up there becomes imprac- ticable for carriages. About 4 miles from the camp of Chekishler is a station where there are about 155 seventy men. It is qnly beyoncl this that one gets a distant vie-w of the camp, T^hic!; extends all, along the shore. The niost conspicuous structure in the camp is a wooden, turret, used as a signalling station. At thp foot of this is General Lazareff's head- quarters and the Eed Cross Amhulance. In front of this, ahout 50 paces off, is a. pandhank, which tlie Turkomans in former days ^sed as a landing-place, and which projects g,ho^t 300 yards into the sea. This sandbank has been raided, and a furtfeey projection J^as been added tq it in the shape of a wooden jetty of about 150 yards in length. The sea at Ohekishler is T§ry shallow, and ships have to anchor at least 3, miles out ia the roadstead ; steam launches and Turkoman luggers caiu'qnly approach th^_ shore within a certain distance ; the smaller luggers can get as far as the jetty. Bails have been laid from the end of this jetty into the camp, ?u distance of about 1^ miles ; the material of which tfiis tramway is constructed is old and very defective. Befoire these ,rails were laid the Russian soldiers had to carry gn tbpir bapks the heavy loads pf barley and! the ammunition, and even now they have tp wade' about 500 yards into the water to bring into camp the hay which the Tuvkon^ans bring in thgir luggers from Mazandeyan and Asterabad. Large quantities of wood from the same places ar^ brought and thrown intp the water, and allowed, tq drift ashpre. The hay is compressed by machinery prior to its being sent on to Chat. It is estimated that 15,000 camels and 6,000 pack-horses will be required by the Transport Department. I was told that the Russians did all they could to secure mulpteers in Persia, but that very few would face thq risk of being captured by the Ty,rkomans ; a com.paratively ^m^u. number have been tempted to go, and they were engaged in Khorassan. On my way to Ohekishler I came apross abput 5,0PO unladen camels going to Chad. I was given to understand that they belonged to Turkq.piai^s whq were Persian subjects. The head- quarters qf the Oompiiss^riat Department ©f thi^ Corps d^Ari^fe ar§ g,t Astrakhan, whence steq^niers and sailing vessels chartered by the Russian Grovernnjpnt pome direct with all sorts of giipplies. At Lenkoran there is a branch of the Cpinmi§:< sariat Department, whence large supplies of corn 9,rp sent. , It was originally proposed to lay dpwa a cable from Paku tQ Erasnovpdsk, SiV^d thence to cqnppct it with Chekishler across the Turkoman Steppe, but this plan has been abandoned, and a cable is being laid from Baku to Cheki^lileri Accp:rding to Q^^neral Lazareff, this latter place, which, before the arrival of the Russian army, was nothing but a sandbank frequented by piratical Turkomans, is destined to play an important part in the future of Central Asia. I did hear something of the extension of the field telegraph to Asterabad, but for the present the objective is Chat. There are several Armenians from Resht and Enzelli whp have Jiirei^ luggers and laden them with rice, fowls, and other provisions which they bring to Chekishler for sale. Large quantities of cattle and sheep have been driven into the caipp fro^^ Mazanderan and Asterabad. The present force at Chekishler consists pf three battalions of infantry numbering 2,400 men, 400 Cossacks, and 100 mounted Turkomans ; of artillery there are p^ly 4 brass four-pounders in the fort, and 4 light guns. The tptal strength pf the forces' now on the Attrek is about 30,000 men. The advanced guard is pushing on toward^ Kizil Arvat under the command of Gpneral Dolgorpuki, an(i is no-vj more than lOQ versti? beyond Chat, The expedition is pxpected tq have work c\it pi^t fpr it in subduing the T6k6 Turkomans xmtil next sprmg. Tl^® want of transport detained the army some time at Chekishler. Shortly after his arrival, General Lazareff made a formal declaration of hostilities againpt %\p lek.^ Turkomans j having captured six of them he had them brought ^before him, and, addressing them in Turkish, he said : " I will not be satisfied with six of your heads nor even with sixty, hut will march right through your gountry, and wiU not rest until I have taken 30,000. Now go and make this known to your people." The sanitary condition of the camp at Ohekishler is far from being satisfactory. The swarms of flies render all ypst impossible by day, and the sea-brpgze ip not strong enough to carry off the nauseating smells generg-ted by want of proper care and the exhH,l3.tiQ3is qf putrid animal inatter. Dead camels are to be seen lying about %\l over the place, The only part pf the camp wlxich is tolerably plean is that wl^e^e tbe head- quarters and the ambulance tents are pitched. Notwithstanding the bad quality of the water, which i^ vpry br^-ckish, ^nd tbp state of the camp, the health of the troops is satisfactory, owing, perh?!,p£;, to their being ^lile tp bathe freely, TJ^e spld,iBrs I saw in the cawp appe^^re^ to W^ to be jery ypung. Sliortly aft^r their l^|iding ^l^i^^ plp^i}Wg W^^ supplied tO tJip WeWj W^ also canvas boots and shoes with leather soles. The inftintry aire armed with breech- [127] , X 2 156 loaders similar to the Cliassep6ts, but with a hammer instead of a needle. The cavalry, besides a carbine on the same principle, is armed with the hiltless Circassian sword. The infantry having to carry their knapsacks are usually marched during the night. It is generally admitted that the Russian cavalry will have little chance of following up the Turkomans, who are for the most part admirably mounted. General Lazareff, at the age of twenty-one, is said to have been a journeyman tailor at Baku. He was for some time employed in clothing the army in the Caucasus. He then joined the 21st Regiment, and soon rose to the rank of an officer, having distinguished himself in the Caucasus. General Count Bourko commands the infantry and Prince Wittgenstein, Berlebourg, is in command of the cavalry. That part of the Attrek over which I passed on my way to Chekishler was quite dry, owing to there having been no rain»for the last two nlonths. Above Chat the Attrek has been diverted from its natural course in order to supply the camp at that place with water. The turning of the river had been intrusted to a Russian officer, who employed several thousand Turkomans in the work without paying them. In one of his shooting excursions Prince Wittgenstein was accosted by a large number of women, who, to his great surprise, were plastering mud over their faces, which he conceived to be a sign of discontent of having been deprived of their water, but it was simply a sign expressing a wish to speak, and when permission was granted complaints were made against the same officer, who was subsequently sent back to Russia. The country beyond the Gourgan presents a frosty appearance, being covered with a white substance which has thfe appearance of salt. Here and there a few isolated hillocks are to be met in the flat phiin, which is perfectly bare. The natives use the excrea of their cattle for fuel, as the country is quite denuded of trees or any kind of shrubs. I found a great difficulty in procuring a Turkoman lugger to convey me to Gez, owing to their being all under the control of the Russians. The old Persian coinage is the only money that the Turkomans-will accept. They will have nothing to do with Russian paper money or the Persian new krans. With respect to Merv, General Lazareff is reported to have said that its taking will very much depend upon the attitude of its inhabitants towards the expedition. (Signed) SIDNEY CHURCHILL. Asterdbad, August 23, 1879. No. 147. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received October 15.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, October I \, 1879. , I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that the official journal of yesterday announces that, at the request of the authoritieis in the Caucasus, telegraphic communi- cation has been established across the Persian territory to Tchikishlar. In virtue of an arrangement come to with the Persian Government, Russian telegraph employes have been stationed at Asterabad, Sharood, Semnan, Tehran, and Tabreez. TelegrAms can thus be forwarded to Tchikishlar in the Russian language. Rates for telegrams to Tchikishlar are the same as those for the interior of Russia, with an addition of 4 fr. per message of twenty words for the transit rate across Persia. I llHtVC &C (Signed) ' F. R. PLUNKETT. No. 148. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received October 20.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, October 11, 1879. I WOULD beg to call your Lordship's attention to some very significant remarks on the best means for combating the advance of British influence in Afghanistan, which appears in this morning's " Golos." The writer argues as follows : — "The Afghan war possessed for the English one principal object, which was openly proclaimed in official speeches and despatches. It was not only to chastise the 157- ■ refractory Ameer that tlie English invaded Afghanistan; they wished to displace therefrom Russian influence, and, having rectified their frontiers, render the appear- ance of theEussians in Afghanistan impossible for the future. This object they have attained, and, in this respect, the recent Oabul catastrophe cannot alter the position of affairs. The new war will make the English more exacting towards the Afghans, and in the end they will acquire still more. " One contingency, however, is possible : the far-sighted English policy may prove to be futile. The English are advancing on Cabul in order to punish the assassins of their mission, and re-establish the authority of the Ameer, Yakoob Khaii. But every Ameer of Afghanistan has had rivals : Yakoob Khan is no exception ; he has rivals who have gained popularity by many daring exploits. "Let one of these rivals apg^ar at Herat, or in Afghan Turkestan, in a place where he continues to be remembered and loved by the people, and he will be at once surrounded by ail who are discontented with the present Ameer and his friendship with_ England. Afghanistan having, by virtue of the Gundamak Treaty, lost its political independence, will thus become divided into two parts, and, if a faithful ally of Her Britannic Majesty is to rule at Oabul, justice demands that at Balkh or Herat, which are nearest to Russian frontiers, a prot6g^ of the Russian Czar shoxild. hold sway." I have,. &e. (Signed) E. R. PLUNKETT. No. 149. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received October 20.) My Lord, " St. Petersburgh, October 16,1819. GENERAL KAUFMANN returned to St. Petersburgh from Livadia four days: ago, and is expected to start for Turkestan about the 22nd instant. The newspapers report that his Excellency proceeds to his post without his family, and addtliat, in view of the fresh complications which have arisen in the Anglo-Afghan question, the General has been furnished with new instructions. . ' ; Colonel Kuropatkin, the well-known Russian traveller and Eiivoy to the late Yacoob Bek of Kashgar, has been appointed Commander of the Turkestan rifle brigade, and has already started for Tashkend. ' • Colonel Kuropatkin was chief of the staff" to General Skobeleff during the late campaign in Turkey. The " Invalide Russe " states that the following Russian troops were stationed near the town of Vernoe (Semirechensk region) on the i^g-th August last : — Two Turkestan battalions of the line, 1 local battalion, 2 batteries of the Turkestan, artillery brigade, a mountain battery, and 2 sotnas of No, 1 Semirecheusk regiment of Cossacks. The troops were encamped on elevated ground, at a distance of 6 versts from the town, and the sanitary condition of the men was perfectly satisfactory. I have, &c. (Signed) E. R. PLUNKIETT. No. 150. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received October 20.) My Lord, -SL Petersfiurgh, October 17, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith an interesting account, taken from the " Journal de St. P^tersbourg," of the Akhal T6ke country, and of the circumstances which, according to M. Kuropatkine, have led to the present Russian expedition against those tribes. I have, &c. (Signed) E. R. PLUNKETT* 158 Inelosure in No. 150. Extract from the "Jewnal de St. Petershourg" of October -ff, 1879; M. iJ^OTTROPATKINE, un de nos militaires les plus experts dans les affaires de I'Asie-Centrale, a public dans la livraison d'Octobre dela " Eevue Militaire " la fin d'un article sur les Turcomans, qu'il termine par un expos^ des relations des nomades de I'Aklial-T^ke avec leurs voisins pendant les cinq demiferes ann6es. Les faits que cite M. KouropatMne offlent toute garantie d'^iuthenticit^ pour le lecteur, et ils ^clairent d'une mani^re frappante notre politique nationale dans ces contr^es lointaines de I'Empire, Depui^ I'ltablissement de la puissance Russe sur laj rive droite de TAmou-Daria, depuis la guerre de Khira et la constitution du district de Krasnovodsk, nous nous sommes trouv^s en contact direct avec les Turcomans lomoudes, et nous avons dA songer a d^fendre ceuX'Ci centre les Turcomans de I'Aklial-T^k^. Parmi les diff^rentes tribus Turcomanes dont le cM&e total de population s'^l^ve h, 1,000,000 environ, on remarque celle de l'Aibal-T^k6, qui occupe les oasis de Merv et de la valine du Kourendagh, Les autres tribus telles que les Ersaris (sur la rive gauche de TAmou, entre les possessions Kbiviennes et Afgbanes) , les Tchodores (dans I'oasis de Kbiva, pr^s des villes de Kiptcbak, Hialy et de Person, ainsi que sur rOustori), les lomoudes (dans Toasis de Kbiva, depuis la ville de Kounia-Ourgentch, le long du canal du Laoudan et des Lacs de Sary-Kamycb, et plus loin a I'ouest \e. long de rOuzboi et sur la c6te de la Oaspienne jusqu'a la Gourgb^ne), les Hoklanes (aux sources de I'Attrek et de la Gourgb^ne), les El^di (pr6s des limites de I'Afgbanistan et sur les fronti^res des provinces Persanes de Koutcban et de Deregazo), et les Solares (le long du Mourkbab) ; tons enfin reeonnaissent I'autorit^ des Etats voisins ; la Russie, Kbiva, Boukbara, I'Afgbanistan, et la Perse. II n'y a done que les T^k^s qui, soumis nominalement au Kban de Kbiva, sent en r6alit6 ind^pendants et se prevalent de la situation de leurs oasis pour se livrer au pillage de toutes les tribus oong^n^res. Les T^k^s se divisent en deux fr£(ussie. Les incursions des Akbal-T^k^s sur le territoire des lomoudes soumis a la Eussie ont appeM une revancbe de notre part : c'est le but de la campagne actuelle. D6s 1871 un des plus forts retrancbements Turcomans, celui de Kizyl-Arvat, avait 6t6 pris et detruit par nous. En 1872 les troupes E.usses ^taient entries h, Beourm. Apr^s la cbute de Kbiva, les Turcomans avaient manifesto le d6sir de se soumettre au Souverain de la Russie, qu'ils appellent " Ak^Padiscbah." Les pourparlers qu'ils ont eus k cette 6poque avec nos autorit^s n'^taient 6videmment qu'un pr6texte de leur part pour gagner du temps et se preparer h. la lutte centre nous. Qes pourparlers 6taient men6s par leg Obefs, sans aucun concours de la population, qui ne cessait pa? ses actes de brigandage. Quand, en 1876, les Outemystcbis eurqnt inform^ les Turcomans de Merv des rapports des Takbtamystcbis avec les Repr^sentants de I'autorit^ Russe, les Turcomans de Merv envoyferent aussitdt des bommes de leur tribu pour empecber cet accord ; ils menacferent de guerre les Akbal-T6k6s dans le cas oil ils s'entendraient avec les Russes, aussi bien qu'avec leurs autres voisins, Persans, ICbiviens, Kurdes, &c. ♦ ' 159 Les Turcomans de Merv ajout^renl; " q11*ils feraient tuer les Khans Akhal-T6k6s qui auraient exp6di^ des messages au camp Russe, at enfin que les Eusses n'^taient pas h craindre, parce que les Tutbomtofe ataMt tin ap^lll AhM le H6rat, ob. Yakoub Khan n'^tait plus, et dans I'Afghanistan, d'oii Ton se procurerait toujours des armes exbelleiites;" C'est ainsi qtie lofs dB hotre teconnaiSfeanb© de Kl-asnotodsk k Kizyl-Arfat en 1S11, nous pAmes constater I'attitude hostile des Akhal-T^kls, a la t^te desqUels 6tait fee meme Noltr-Vetdy fehkn, consid6r^ auttefbis comtne notr6 ami. *' Les Turcomans potissferent I'audace jusqu'a attaqueif HbS foists d& Tbhikisbliliai', fet tine troupe de 1,600 de leurs cavaliers parut m^me dails les environs de Kragnbvodsk. Les fortifications Eusses dans le genre de celle de Tdhat ^tftient IhStlffisantes'pdilt rem^dier an mal ; nos loumoudes 6taient chaque jour inqui^t^s davantage par les Akhal TiSk^s; tout comnie5tbe %ntre Khiva et les c6tes de la Caspienne avait cess6: 11 fallait en finir. O'est alors qu'a ^16 torm6 le corps exp^ditionnaire du G^n^ral Lazarew. No. 151. Mr. Plunkett to the Maquis of Salisbury. -^(Received Odoler 20.) My Lordj Sti Petmbmghi OdtQh^ Hi 1879* IT is only this morning that th6 list of officers killed and Wounded iii the kS&it ©I" Geok-T6p6 on the Iftteter has been published in the " Journal de §t. P^tfeygbOTtg." Your Lordship will See from the inclosed extr'act that the losi in ofRcei'S &loae •6ft that occasion was — Killed • i; ., .. .. .. .. ..6 Died subsequently of thfelf WoU&ds .. .. .. ..2 Wounded .. .. .. .. ,. .. ..17 X Ot^l •• .» •« «• «■ ^d 1 have, &c. (Signed) P. B,. PL¥NKETT. laaelostaf^ in K"o: 151: Extract from the " JoUtMl de 8t. Pit^HbOUV^^' of October -fy, 1879. NOUS emprufttOfiS an " CaUcase " la liste deS offlciefs Russds tu^fe et blesses lors du combat du 28 AoAt coatre les Turcomans : — Twes.— Le Sous-Lieutynant Gi-igoriew, du rggifhent d'Eli'lvah ; I'Enseigiie l||ske- vitch 2, du meme regiment; TEnseigne Belobo^odow, du raiment de Geoi'gie J Id Major Safonowj du 2' batailloii de GhagseUrs du Oaucase ; le Capitaine Skoriilo, du regiinent de Kabardib ; TEnseigne SmirnoWj du mfeme regiment. Marts de teun blessure^.-^L'Enseigh& Dewel, du rdgiment de Bakoii, et le Capitaine en second Yakovlew, du regiment de Schirvan. Blesse's.—Le Capitaine en second Tchekoild^e, dtt regiment d'Erivaii ; k§ Soils- Lieutenants Kiknadze et Ardi'Sthvili, du i'^giment d'EriVah : le Capitaine en second Romischovsky, du regiment tie Gdorgie^ le Sous-Litutehant Yefmdlaifew, dtt mgrrie Jp^giment; TEnseigne Schmidt, dll T" bataillon de ChasseufS duCaucase'l le Capitaihe Popow, du 3° bataillon ; le Sous- Lieutenant Ncvtonow, du ttilme bataiilon ; TBhseigiie Semenow, du m^me bataiilon ; Ife Lieutenant Souartchiiisky, du ffiglmeilt dfe la Itour'a ; le Lieutenant Golovatchew, du regiment de Kabai-die ; le SouS^Lietitetiant Goiissakow, dii m^me regiment; le Major Schaufuss, du regiment de Schif^an; le Capitaine en second Semenow, du mfeme r6giment ; TEnseigne Mardanow', du mdme regiment ; le Lieuteharf Lipinsky, du 2" bataiilon de Sapeurs du Caucase ; le Lieutenant Haitow, du regimeiit d§ Koutais des troupes irl'%uli^&res a cheval. -"-' --^I'll "T ;60 No. 152. The Marquis of Salisbury to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Foreign Office, October 22, 1879. > I HAVE received your despatcli of the 1st ultimo, forwarding a Report by Mr. Sidney Cliurchill of his visit to Chekishler. Mr. Churchill's account is valuable, and has been read with much interest. The courage and intelligence which he has displayed in undertaking and performing this mission entitle him to great credit, and I shall be obliged by your conveying to him my thanks and warm approval. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 153. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received October 27.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, October 22, 1879. WITH reference to my despatch of the 29th September respecting the expe- dition organized at Samara for surveyiag Central Asia, I have the honour to inclose herewith, extracted from the "Journal de St. Petersbourg," a Report presented' at a General Meeting of the Geographical Society held on the illt instant, and also a memorandum by Mr. Michell giving further details of the movements of this survey expedition. I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKETT. Inclosure 1 in No. 153. Extract from the "Journal de St. Petersbourg" of October ii, 1879. Society Imperiale Russe de Geogbaphie. Se'ance du 3 Octobre, 1879. Sous la Pr^sidence de M. S:emenow, Vice-President. MERCREDI, 3 Octobre, la Societe de Geographic a tenuuce stance g^nerale sous la pr6sidence de M. Sem^now, Vice-President. M. Sreznevsky, Secretaire, a donne lecture du compte-rendu des travaux geo- graphiques de la Societe pendant I'ete dernier. II a parle successivement de 1' expedition de M. le Professeur Nordenskiold, des explorations de M. Grigoriew, et de la station meteorologique de la Nouvelle Zemble, oix M. Tiaguine avait ete charge des observations scientifiques. II a fait connaitre ensuite les voyages de MM. Prjevalsky, Potanine, Alferaki et Pavtsow dans I'Asie Centrale, les resultats des etudes sur le chemin de fer de I'Asie Centrale faites par I'expedition de Samara. La Societe avait deMgue un de ses membres, M. Maiew, pour faire partie de cette expedition et recueillir des donneeu statistiques sur le Turkestan, Boukhara, et Khiva. Cette expedition a commence ses travaux au printemps dernier, et a termine a la fin de Juillet ses explorations sur la ligne a construire a partir de Karatougai, oik s'etaient arretees ses etudes de I'annee dernifere, jusqu'a Taschkend et Samarcande ; elle a visite Karaouziak, sm'le Syr-Daria, et les mines de charbo'n de terre pres de Khodjent. Le 29 Juillet tons ses membres etaient reunis a Samarcande, d'ou ils avaient I'intention de partir le 5 Aout dans deux directions ; le Comte Rostovtsew, MM. Liapounow, Sorokine, Mousketow, Karazine et deux employes des telegraphes dans la direction de Karchi, pour s'y rencontrer avec I'Emir et lui faire connaitre le but de I'expedition ; et les autres membres, c'est-a-dire MM. Sokolovsky, Simakow, Maiew, Lounkevitch, Kreitschmer, Valitsky, Pelzmann, dans la direction de Kitab, Schaar, Yartube et Kaltaminar, oii ils attendraient le retour des premiers. L'expedition devait traverser Hekan, Yourtchi, Saryosio, Regar, Duchambe et 161 Baldjonakj arriver a Kouliaba et de la parcourir la rivifere du Pandj dans toute son ^tendue. L'e|Lp6dition devait se rencontrer a Hazretimam aveo le Capitaine de corvette Zoubow, qui suivait la route de P^tro-Alexandrovsk a Kobadjan par I'Amou-Daria. Le 26 Juillet M. Zoubow 6tait a quatorze yerstes de Schirabad, et avait ^tudie le cours de r Amou sur toute son 6tendue ; il ne restera done plus a I'expedition qu'a explorer les anciens lits de I'Amou aujourd'hui dess^cb^s, qui paraissent surtout depuis Tchardjoui, " La Soci^t^ de G^ograpliie a reeu du obef de I'expedition un t^Mgramme date du 22 AoM, anndiifant que les routes depuis Djam jusqu'a Karchl, et depuis Kitab jusqu'a Scbaar auraient et6 explorees, alnsi que depuis les Portes de Per, par Derbend et Bayars jusqu'aux ruines de Term^s, sur le bord de I'Amou-Daria. Des observations jn6t6ovo- logiques et astronomiques ont et6 f aites ; on a r^uni des collections int^ressantes, des croquis ont 6t6 pris par les dessSateurs attaches a I'expedition, etc. M. Sreznevsky a parl6 ensuite des explorations de M. Kruznetsow dans la contrde du sud-ouesi, du voyage de M. Syrk en Bulgarie, des etudes anthropologiques de M. Meredlenovsky en Crim^e, des etudes ethnographiques de M. Poliakow dans la contree de TOural et au Caucase, de M. Kibaltchik sur le Dni^pre, de M. Europeus dans le GoUvernement d'Olonets, et de M. Mikloukba-Maclay en Australie. La derni^re lettre de M. Mikloukba-Maclay a 6t6 recue ce printemps ; il disait que sa sante I'obligeait a revenir en Europe ou a partir pour le Japon, mais que dans tous les cas il devrait quitter la region des tropiques. La Soci^tl de G^ograpbie desirait qu'il s'instaMt dans le midi de I'Europe, ou il pourrait mettre en ordre les nombreux mat6riaux qu'il avait r6unis. On lui avait offert le passage gratuit a bord d'un batiment de notre escadre du Pacifique qui revenait en E,ussie. Malbeureusement le savant voyageur a pr6£6r6 se rendre en Australie, ou d'aiUeurs U a fait des 6tudes zoologiques trfes-importantes. On a appris depuis que M. Mikloukba avait 6t6 mis a la t6te d'une expedition scientiflque en Polyn^sie. La position difficile de M. Mikloukba-Maclay, qui a entrepris de sa propre initiative un voyage dans des contr^es ou ne s'^tend pas d'ordiaaire Taction de la Soci^te Russe de Geograpbie et qui ne s'est pas pourvu de ressources suffisantes, a oblige la Society a lui f ournir des subsides dans la mesure de ses facultes et a faire appel a la generosity du public. La Society exprime ici sa reconnaissance pour les dons que M. Naryscbkine, M. Demidow, Prince de San-Donato et autres personnes lui out fait parvenir pour notre courageux compatriote. La Soci6te a address^ a diffSrentes epoques 7,000 roubles a M. Mikloukba-Maclay, sans compter le transport gratuit a bord de la corvette " Vitiaz," qui I'a conduit en Nouvelle-Guinee, et sur le clipper " Izoumroud," qui a pass6 exprfes par la Nouvelle-Guin6e pour prendre M. Mikloukba- Maclay. Cependant tout cela n'a pas pu sufi&re a un sejour de neuf ans dans les contr^es oceaniennes, et ce voyageur a dA contractor pour 15,000 roubles de dettes M. Mikloukba-Maclay. EUe est beureuse de constater que I'opinion publique emue de la situation de ce voyageur, et elle applaudit aux souseriptions qui sefont dans la presse en sa favour. Apr^s la lecture du compte-rendu, M. Lenz, President de la section de Geograpbie Pbysique, a fait une oommTmication relative a la Gonference reunie h Hambourg au mois de Septembre dernier pour la fondation de stations polaires internationales. ^ Le rapporteur a fait I'bistorique de la question, a expose les raisons qui avaient motive la reunion de cette Conference, et a donne les noms des savants qui y ont pris part au nom de rAUemagne, de la France, de la Su^de et Norvege, de la HoUande et du Danemark. L'orateur a fait connaltre ensuite les r6sultats de cette Conference, qui se r6sument dans reiaboration d'un programme des travaux des stations polaires met^orologiques, en partie obligatoire et unif orme, en partie facultatif et special pour cbacune d'elles, et dans la fixation des points des b^mispb^res bor6al et austral oii ces stations seront fondles. La Conference s'est .dedaree constituee en Commission Internationale perma- nente pour la fondation de stations polaires. M. Lenz a conclu son Rapport en constatant avecplaisir que le programme eiabord par la Conference de Hambourg etait identique au programme eiabore en 1878 par la Societe Russe de Geograpbie. [127] 162 Inclosure 2 in No. 153. Mxiract from the "Journal de St, Pgtersbourg" of October fi, 18?&. Russian Expedition to the Oxus. THE " journal de St. P^tersbourg " of the gul' October omits, in its translation of the Report presented at a General Meeting of the Geographical Society held on the il^ instant, the following details respecting the projected explorations of M. A. Maeff in Central Asia :- " Mr. M. A. Maeff, effective member of the Geographical Society, accompanied the expedition organized at Samara for the purpose of surveying the line of country for the Central Asian Railway. Mr^ Maeff was specially instructed to collect statistical and other data respecting Russian Turkestan, Bokhara, and Khiva. " Mr. Maeff having accompanied the expedition during the months of Mayj June» a^d July, determined to separate from it, and to devote the two following months to the exploration of Bokhara, and not to proceed down the Oxus below Kieff. In his letter from Samarcand, dated 13?^ August, Mr. Maeff sends the following programme of his projected researches. Separating from the expedition at Baizun, Mr. Maeff' intended to penetrate into the northern valleys of the Surhan to Sari-djui ; to explore Tupalan as high as possible, and then to descend the Surhan on a raftj and also to examine the Patta-hissar ferry. Erom hence he contemplated proceeding across the mountains to Eobadian, and to ascend along the banks of the Kafirnagan to Hissar. Above Urn point it Would appear the Ka£magan is not navigable^ From Hissar across Djushambei and the town of Eaflmaganj Mr. Maeff hoped to reach Norak on the Vahkshj and to descend it to Kurgantubei, where he proposed to devote special attention to the numerous ruined cities and forts in the neighbourhood-. From Kurgantubei Mr. Maeff intended to rejoin the expedition, and to tiake part in its further explorations." The " Moscow Gazette " of the ^^th October publishes the following telegramj dated iV^h Ootober, which it has received from Katti- Kurgan, and which g^ves the movements of the expedition up to that date : — "At Termez* the expedition divided into two parties : Mushketoff, Sorokin, Karazinf) and Sokolofsky plroceeded by water to Petro-Alexandrovsk ; the other members of tibte exj)editionj crossing the Rivers Surhan tod Kaflrnagan at Kobadian, reached the Vahksh River near Likhman Settlement, proceeding thence by boat to Petro* Alexandrovsk. The navigability of the Rivers Surhan, Kafimaganj, and Vahksh was intestigated, as also the gold industry on the latter. A inareh route survey was made to Vahksh, and a compass survey was effected of the country near the junction of the Rivers Vahksh and Piandj, aaid of the banks of the rivers at Kelif and Karki ; determinations were made of Kobadiaaj and of the point of junction of the Vahksh with the Piandj, and also of Termesi, Kehf, Karki^ and Ghardjui; the kMdaks, ruins, and fetrys along the above-mentioned riverg were entered on the map. Information was obtained of a dry bed or channel leading from Kehf to the tJzboi, whteh was explored for a distance of 15 versfcs by one of the members of the expedition. A geographical and aoological collection was made; barometrical and thermometrieal observations w^e taken daily, ^uboff attained the extreme point of the navigation of the Piandj, defined the gradient of the Oxus to Char(^ui, and made a survey without the aid of instruments of the Oxus from Hodja-Solar upwards^ Thus the expedition navigated the whole of the Oxus and its principal affluents, the Vahksh and Piandj, for a distance of 70 versts above the outfall of the lattCTk" No. i&4. Mr. PtunJcett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {tteteived Oetoher 2?.) (Extract.) ^ St. PetershUrgh, October 22, 1879. THE "Official Gazette" of yesterday announces that the Emperor has decreed, under date of the "lUScKr''" that time passed in the territories of the Amou-Daria and of * A ferry over the Oxus close to the point where it receives the Surhaui t An ex-officer of the Turkestan rifle battalion .^^T. M. 163 Ferghanah by troops or members of the Military Administration should count double for pension. The issue of this order, coinciding so nearly with the breaking up of the late Council of Grenerals held at Livadia, would seem to confirm the reports which I have heard of the intention of Russia to make military movements on a large scale in, OentraJ Asia. Time patssed in Turkestan has long counted double for the military employed there. If, therefore, it is thought necessary now to extend the privilege to the Amou-Daria and Ferghanah districts, it "v^puld shoy? that the number of troops there has been, or is going to be, increased. » Nq. 155. Mr. Plunkntt to. tflG Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 3.) Hj Lord, St Petersburgh, October 27, 1879. I HAVE the honour to report that Greneral Kaufmann, Governor-General of Turkestan, left St. Petersburgh ^r Tashkoud the day before yesterday. The news- papers assert that a number of people collected at the station to witness his ExceUenoy's departure. I have, &c. (Signed) F. E. PLUNKETT. No. 156. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 4.) (Extract.) Asterabad, September 5, 1879. I HAVE the honour to traujn^it. herewith, for the information of Her Maje^Jf's Goverameut, copies of despatches addressed to Her Majesty's Minister Plenipotentiary ^t Tehran, with refei;enoe to the Russian expedition on the Attrek. In Inclosure No. 1, 1 inforpi Mx, Thorngon of my determination to send my son Sidney to the Russian camp at Chekishler to obtain correot information on the move- ments of the Russian army. , . , In Jndogure No. 3, ^i; communioate to Her Majesty's Legation the repeat of a Turkoman, from which it appears that the whole of the Russian aimy had gone on to Chat. In Inclosure No. 3, 1 transmit to Mr. Thomson my son's report, which forms Inclosure No. 4 in this despatch. In Inclosure No. 5, I report the return of 530 mules belonging to Ottoman subjects from the Rtissian camp, and the desertion of a number of Turkomans with their camels. I have since acquainted Mr. Thomson by telegraph of the demise of General Lazareflf, who died at Chat soon after he joined tlie bulk of the army he com- mapded. Inoloaure 1 in No. 166, Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson, August 13, 1879. [See Inclosure 2 in No. 142.] Inclosure 2 in No. 156. Consul Churchill to Mr. R.. Thomson, August 17, 1879. [See Inclosure 3 in No. 142.J [127] Y 2 164 Inclosure 3 in No, 156. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson, August 24, 1879. Sir, Ziaret, near Asterahad, August 24, 1879. ^ IN my despatcli of the IStli instant I had the honour to inform you that I had decided on sending my son Sidney to Chekishler, and I have now the honour to transmit to you his E/Oport. He remarried tn^o days in the Russian camp, but did not see the CommaDder-in- chief, who was unable to receive him on account of ill-health. He, General LazarefF, was to have left Chekishler to join the bulk of the army on the 21st. I have since been informed that a disease of a pecuHarly virulent nature has broken out amongst the troops at Chat, necessitating the formation of two separate camps there, with a view to isolating the regiments amongst whom this malady had declared itself. I have, &c. (Signed) H. A. CHURCHILL. Inclosure 4 in No. 156. Report by Mr. S. Churchill on the Movements of the Russian Army on the Attrek, dated August 23, 1879. [See Inclosure in No. 146.] « Inclosure 5 in No. 156. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Ziaret, near Asterabad, August 30, 1879. I HAVE the honour to report that a few days ago 530 mules belonging to Ottoman subjects reached Asterabad from the Russian camp operating on the Attrek. They had been dismissed by the superior military authorities ; these, together with those that came some time back without authority, make up the 600 that were reported to have been sent to the Russian camp. At the same time, large numbers of camels belonging to the Jaaferbai Turkomans are said to be returning to their homes, mostly without owners. I have, &c. (Signed) H. A. CHURCHILL. No. 157. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received November 4.) My Lord, Asterabad, September 14, 1879. I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship, herewith inclosed, copy of my despatch of this day's date, addressed to Her Majesty's Minister Plenipotentiary at Tehran, with reference to a deplorable accident that had occurred to the Russian advanced corps operating on the Attrek, resulting in the loss of 600 lives, I have, &c, (Signed) H. A, CHURCHILL, • I6l> Inclosure in No . 157. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, _ Aster ahad, ISeptemher 14, 1879, THE latest information from the Enssian camp at Chat is conveyed to me by , who reports that a deplorable accident had occurred to the advanced column of the Eussian army operating on the Attrek. This column was" encamped in a narrow valley, in the neighbourhood of Khoja-Kala, close to Karu-Kala, where, after heavy and continuous rains, a large portion of the mountain overhanging the camp came down and buried 600 men of the regular army, together with a number of horses. The T6k6 Turkomans, on hearing of this mishap, took advantage of the confusion created in the Russian camp lie attack and plunder it. The survivors of this catas- trophe were said to have fallen back upon the main body at Chat. I have, &c. (Signed) H. A. CHURCHILL. No. 158. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received November 4.) My Lord, _ Asteralad, September 23, 1879. I BEG to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, two despatches that I have addressed to Mr. Thomson regarding the movements of the Russian army on the Attrek. The latter inclosure refers more particularly to a serious engagement that took place on the 14th instant between the Russians and the T^k6 Turkomans beyond Karee-Kala, at a place called Bendi Asen, in which serious losses were sustained on both sides. I have, &c. (Signed) H. A. CHURCHILL. Inclosure 1 in No. 158. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Asterahad, September 21, 1879. I HAVE the honour to report that some time back 200 families belonging to the Charbai Attabai tribe of Turkomans, who are in the habit of migrating into Russian territory every year to graze their numerous flocks, had joined the Tek6 Turkomans lest they should be pressed into the Russian service and not be remunerated for their labour. When the Governor of Asterahad heard of this flight, considering them Persian subjects, he sent emissaries to induce them to return to their settlements on the Gourgan, and on the strength of the Governor's assurances that he would protect them they struck their camp and turned their faces towards the Gourgan. The Russians, on hearing this, detached a body of 300 Cossacks to intercept them on their way. The result was the loss of 1,000 camels and 5 Chiefs on the part of the Turkomans, who fled before the Russian cavalry. This occurrence caused great commotion both, amongst the Turkomans and in Asterahad, and strong representations have been made by the Governor, Mustafa Kulee Khan, against such proceedings on the part of the Russians with respect to what he considers, and with some show of reason, to be Persian subjects. Yesterday two Turkomans' heads were brought in by the inhabitants of a village not far from this. The village had been attacked by three Turkomans on the night of the 19th for plunder. The third escaped severely wounded ; but these are matters of every day occurrence. I have, &c. (Signed) H. A. CHURCHILL. 166 Inclosure 2 in J^o, 158, Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Asterabad, Septemher 23, 1879, A TURKOMAN who has arrived at Asterabad reports that a coluimi of the E-vissiau army having reached Bundi Asen, heyond Kari Kala, Rahman Burdi, an influential Turkoman Chief j together with four other headmen of the Akhal T^k4s, proceeded to. the Russian camp to offer their submission. Rahman Burdi's petition was granted, and he and his party went back to their obehs* fully satisfied that their people would not be molested, but no sooner had they returned than the Russian officer in command decided on attacking them, and he then and there sent off a detachment of Cossacks against the Turkomans and inflicted on them a loss of twenty men. Rahman Burdi was not long in resenting this treacherous conduct. A hue and cry was raised all over the country. Collecting all the Turkoman horse he could dispose of he attacked the Russians in a most determined manner, and is said to have inflicted heavy losses on them, while the losses on the part of the Turkomans were also considerable. The Chief, Rahman Burdi, lost his life in this attack. The Turkoman gives the numbers as 2,400 killed on the side of the Russians and 700 on that of the Turkomans, but these figures are scarcely to be relied on, as other reports have it that the losses of the Russians were comparatively slight. However this may be, according to the latest news the Russians were marching against the Turkomans in great force. He also reports that 1,000 sick and wounded had been sent from the front to Chekishlar, and that there was a rumour afloat that the whole army was to return to Chekishlar, not, however, with the object of abandoning the campaign. General liamakin was in command, and the Yamoot Turkomans were highly pleased with the appointment of this General Officer to the chief command- Liarge quantities of hay were being collected at Chekishlar, coming from the Provinces of Ma^anderan and Asterabad, and in one Turkoman encampment 300 head of cattle were collected, to be sent as soon as possible to Chat. The incident reported in my despatch of the 14ith instant, to the effect that 600 Russian soldiers had been killed by a landslip, has been confirmed. I have, &c. (Signed) H. A. CHURCHILL. No. 159. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. ^^(R^ceived November 4.) My Lord, Tehran, September 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to report that I have received the following information from an authentic source at Chekishlar : — A month ago the advanced column of the Russian force, consisting of a battery of ^'pounders, two squadrons of cavalry, and four battalions of infantry, which had reached a place on the Sambar, 70 versts beyond Chat, was still there consti'ncting roads and reconnoitring. Immense quantities of stores had been forwarded to Chat from the Caspian, and it is reported that three months' provisions for man and beast are stored there. The whole force in the field will be divided into two- parts, of which the one will be the fighting section, while the other will be told off to defend the communications, against which the principal Turkoman attacks will, it is supposed, be directed. The number of camels is still very inadequate, and the delay in advancing has been principally caused by the defieiency in transport, althovigh the greatest efforts have been made to overcome it. My informant further reports that dysentery and fever are rife, owing to bad water and the neglect of all sanitary measures. The T6k6 Turkomans have, he says, drawn off towards Merv, and into the northern steppes from Kizil-Arvat, and he adds that on the Russian side the fighting * Eacampmenti. • I6t . column has. been reduced to a very weak force, owing to the number told off for tlie defence of the communications. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD I'. THOMSON. No. leo-. Mr, K Thomson to ths Marquis p/ Salisbury, -^{Received November 4.) (Extract.) Tehran, September 21, 1879. ^' I HAVE the honour to inform you that, in the Jast letter which I received from Hcratj dated the. 12th *August, it is reported that the troops were under no coiitvol and committed all sorts of excesses, that Eyuh Khan was so weak a Governor that Herat was like a town with no Government at all, and that, in fact, the troops were sure to mutiny if affairs continued in the condition they were in then, as the soldiers had received no pay whatever. No. 161. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received November 4.) My Lord, ^ ^ Tehran, September 21, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that information has arrived, by telegraph, from Ktrochan, that the Busfeian advaueM column was defeated near Geuk Tuppeh oa the 12th insianlij iioSing 700 men. The Turkomans drove the remainder back towards Beurmeh, and took possession of th® rifles of the alain Russians* I have, &c. (Signed) RONALI) P. THOMSON. No. 162. M^. R. 1f%5mi8ji to thB Mm'qais &f mtistwy.—{Rsmma Nvvwiber 4.) My Lord, Tehran, September 22, 1879. I HAVE the honoUl? to inform your Lordship that the Meahed Ag(^nt, in a tele- gram which I have ju«t received, confirms the intelligence of the defeat of th« Russians which I comasmnicated to your Lordship in my despatch of yesterday's date. I have> i&c. (Signed) RONALD I*. THOMSON. — ...... ^ I .. ..... ,^ - ■ Nc. 163. Mr* R. Th&mson to the Mojrqms of Salisbury, -^{Received Rovemher 4.) (Extract.) Tehran, September 22, 1S19. I HAVE the honour tO infotm youi' Lordship that the Pci'sian Government have recently addressed remonstrances to the Russian Legation objectiug to the seizure of a Persian Agent sent to Inquire into the complaints against the Russian military authorities made by the jOgfea^jety Yamoot tribe, wlio inhabit Hussein Kuli at the mouth of the Attrek ; they claim that place as Persian territory, and assert the Persian nationality of that and of every other Yamoot tribe. In his answer the Russian, Minister insists that Hussein Kuli is on Russian terri- tory, becad^e it is on the north bank of the Att*ek. tte alleges, thei'fefofe, that the inquiry into the complaints of its inhabitants constituted an unlawful act of jurisdiction within Russian teritory, and avpids any reference to the question of the nationality Of the Yamoot tribes. ' _ The Persian Government protest formally against RnissiSCfi aggteskiOtt and inter- ference with Kari Kala— this place has since been actively occupied by a Russian foi*ce. 'fhey demand as reparation tot tMfe deportation to Chat and imprisonment of 168 the Persian Agent and Chiefs, and for the imprisonment of 400 men, the punishment of the persons concerned in this act of violence ; and they point out that this conduct is in violation of the assurances of the Russian Minister to the Shah, that Kari Kala should not he interfered with, and that the rights of Persia should he respected. No. 164. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 4.) My Lord, Tehran, September 23, 187'J. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that I have just received intelli- gence from Herat, dated the 26th ultimo, to the effect that on the previous day the Colonel of a Herat regiment stationed at Meimeneh arrived, having fled from his garrison, as the troops who had not been paid for a long time had mutinied, and threatened his life and that of the Governor. My informant expresses his opinion that the other regiments in Turkestan' will, when they hear of this revolt, follow the same course, as both the Cabul and the Herat regiments in that province are under no control. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD P. THOMSON. • No. 165. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — [Received November 4.) My Lord, Tehran, September 24, 1879. I HAVE the honom' to inform your Lordship that Mr. Churchill has this day telegraphed that a serious engagement had occurred on the 14th instant beyond Karee Kaleh, in which both sides sustained severe losses, that the Russians subsequently sent 1,000 sick and wounded down to the Caspian, and that it was rumoured that the whole force was retiring in the same direction. I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD P. THOMSON. No. 166. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury, — {Received November 4.) My Lord, • Tehran, October 3, 1879. , I HAD the honour to report to your Lordship on the 30th ultimo, that I had received telegraphic information from Asterabad that General TergoukassofP had arrived at Chekishler from ifaku, with reinforcements amounting to seven battalions of infantry. Mr. Consul Churchill also mentions that a landslip had occurred, causing the death of 600 men, in one of the Russian camps. These numbers have no doubt come from a Turkoman source. This morning Mr. Churchill has again telegraphed that there are rumours of the Russian force beyond Karee Kaleh having sustained further severe losses, but the Persian Government have as yet received no confirmation of this news, I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD P. THOMSON. No. 167. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 4.) My Lord, Tehran, October 3, 1879, I HAVE the honour to transmit herewith translations of letters which I have received from Herat and from the Agent at Meshed, I have, &c. (Signed) RONALD P. THOMSON. 169 ' Inclosute 1 in No. 167. (Translatioa.) August 26, 1879. YESTEUDAY a colonel of one of the Herat regiments at' Meimaineh arrived at Herat. He states that the said regiments having received no pay for a length of time, had mutinied and threatened to kill him. Sirdar Abdullah Khan, the Governor, was unable to keep them in order, and they threatened to put him als» to death or to turn him out of Meimaneh, saying if he was Governor of the place h^ ought to pay them, and if he did not pay them he could, expect no obedience on their part. Should the other regiments in Turkestan hear of this, they will also revolt. In fact, all the reginients of Cabul and Herat stationed in Turkestan, &c., are at present under no restraint, and they commit every kind of excess. It is reported that the RusS^an army has marched on Merv, but it is unknown what the Turkomans have done to repel them. Note of the Meshed Agent, September 13, 1879. A person who has come from Herat states that he saw at Ghorian a letter from General Eakeer Ahmed Khan to the Governor of that place, in which Eakeer Ahmed wrote that he had been summoned by Ameer Yakoub Khan to Cabul, and was about to proceed thither by way of Candahar. Inclosu4'e 2 in No. 167. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) ^ ^ September 6, 1879. THE Deputy-Governor of Seistan is at Toorbut waiting for the arrival of the new Governor and his horsemen from Meshed to enter Seistan. Baba Khan* sent his youngest brother to the Prince Governor annoimcing his arrival with other families at Serrekhs, and asking for provisions, salary, and ration allowance. I hear that the Prince replied that he would receive orders very soon from Tehran respecting him, and that everything would then be arranged. Several days ago three Russian offenders, who had been banished to Siberia, arrived here, having escaped thence an.d been nine months on their way. They came to Meshed on foot by Bokhara and Merv. The Russian Agent, . Kereepi Beg, hearing of their arrival, had them seized and brought to his house. He has now applied for, horsemen from the Prince Governor to have them taken to Asterabad and the port of Gez, on the Caspian. About twenty-five or twenty-six of the Meshed tradespeople recently left for the Russian camp, taking with them cereals to dispose of there. It is said that two English ofELcers were to accompany the Ameer on his tour to Turkestan, &c., that the telegraph material for erecting lines from Candahar to Cabul, Turkestan, and Herat had all arrived at Candahar, and that six more regiments of Cabul had been ordered to march from Herat by Candahar to Cabul. Inclosure 3 in No. 167. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) September 13, 1879. THERE is a report from Merv that Noor Verdee Khan is collecting men to go to the assistance of the Akhal people. _ . i xi a n , i According to letters received hei;e, ,12,000 Russians have entered the Akhal country and arrived at Geuk-f 6p6 ; they first took Karee Kaleh, and took the Persian Deputy-Governor by force to Chat, under.an escort of twenty Cossacks. Eive days ago Mahommed Jaafer Khan, the newly-appointed Governor of Seistan, left Meshed for that province; 300 Karace cavalry accompanied him. He also requested leave to dismiss to their homes the Kayen cavalry and infantry from Seistan, but it was not given. In. fact, the Ameer of Kayen having raised two * Son of the late Chief Kourshed Khan. [127] 2 170 regiments of infantry from Kayen for his own profit, the Prince Governor intends disbanding one of them. A letter from Boojnoord, written on the 8th, states that on the 3rd instant intelligence was received that the Russian ofiEcer Yakotib Beg or Yakouho'ff, having marched on Baum and Boorm4 with 500 or 600 men, a short fight took place, in which several Turkomans were killed and taken prisoners ; the rest escaped to Ak Tepe with their families and joined the T6k6 tribe. Yakoub Beg returned to Bund-i-Hassan. He had also levied 200 men from Nakhoor to render practicable the Passes of Baum and Boorm^. The Russian Agents were still there awaiting orders from the Russian camp. Two Russian fourgons (waggons) had arrived at Boojnoord. On the 5th instant three traders with several other persons arrived from Meshed and went on to the Russian camp ; these persons appeared to be in the Russian service. The Persian Government has instructed the Governor of Boojnoord to try and seize all forts evacuated' by the Turkomans, and if he should fail to ask for them in a friendly manner. Meerza Khanlar Khan, who went to Koochan, has not yet returned. Inclosure 4 in No. 167. . ' The Meshed Ayent to Mr. R. Thomson. (Translation.) • September 20, 1879. A PERSON who arrived from the Akhal country on the 14th reports that the inhabitants of Kizil Arvat fled to the desert on the approach of the Russian troops, and water being scarce several Old people and children died of thirst ; the Russian cavalry who followed also captured twenty-eight men, women, and children, and were returning when they were attacked by the Teke horsemen ; sever£i,l lives were lost On both sides and the Cossacks were defeated^ the Turkomans taking fifty^ four prisoners. Of these twenty-two were Russians, who were beheaded on the spot, and the other thirty-two, who were Circassians, &c,, were.conveyed to Geuk-T6p6. Ify informant says that the number Of the Russian force at Karee Kaieh was 4,000 infantry, 3,000 cavalry, and 32 guns. He also says that all the people of Bauni, Boorm6, and the intervening places have gone to Greuk-Tep6, which they are entrenching and fortifying by digging a deep moat and throwing up strong earthworks. They intend waiting until the Russian army approaches, and then failing upon them iSUddealy. EiveZ Murad Tokhmeh has submitted to the Russians vrith thirty families; JFoxu' days ago news arrived from Koochan that a few days back the Russians attacked Geuk-T?6p6, and the fight lasted till night, when ISie combatants rested ; but . during that same night 1,000 Turkomans ttttaoked the Russian troops, and after a severe struggle the latter took to flight, and were pursued as far as Baum and Boor!*6, a distance of 15 farsakhs. About 500 Russians were killed, .and their riffles and other things fell into the Turkomans' hands. m. 168. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury, — {Received November 4.) My Lord, Tehran, October 7, 1879. ' I HAVE the honour to report to your Lordship that in a telegram which I have received from Mr. Consul ChuiBchill, dated yesterday, he reports that a Turkoman arrived from Chat had brought confirmation of ihe defeat of the Russian troops. The Tuflskpmans had captured two pieces of artUlery. Both sides had lost very heavily, the Russians acknowledging themselves to have lost 1,200 m,en. The main body of the Russian army has returned to Kari Kala, and the aavairy to Chat. Both sides are awaiting considerable -reiaforcemeaits. This news is confirmed hj ihe Meshed Ageni who, however^ states that the Russian loss was 2,000 men kiQed and wounded, ;and that, over and above a large quantity of stores ajad ammunition, the Turkomans had taken 2 pieces of artillery and 2,000 rifles. I haire, &c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. 171 No. ie&. y-'i Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Re&eifed November 4.) 'AK pxtract.) Tehran, Octpber 8, 1879. f ; IHAVE the honour to transmit herewith translation of a letter from the Meshe^ Agent.. , • ' * Inclosure in No. 169. The Meshed Agent to Mr. R, Thomson. '» (Translation.) (Extract.) , September 27, 1879. THERE are conflicting, reports respecting the defeat of the Russian troops ^% Geuk Teppeh. Reports from Dereghez state t^at Yacouhoff, with two other officers and 650 soldiers, were killed outdde the fort of Geuk Tuppeh, in attaokiag it ; that the Turkomans afterwards made a night attack upon the Russian caanp, and. after defeating the troops, with a loss of ahout 2,000 men (in killed g,nd wounded), th^ pursued them as far as Baum and BoQrmeh. They also captured 2,000 rifles, 2 guns, 50 kharwars* of ammunition, and a large quantity of biscuits. One of Noor Verdae Khan's sons was killed in the fight. . A letter from Boojnoord, dat©d the 21st, states that a person had come on the day previous from the T^k^ Turkomans, and reported that the Russian tsoopa having advanced upon Geuk Tuppeh, bombarded the place, About 2,000 soute, men, women, and children, are said to have perished during the bombardment. The Turkomans then asked for an armistice of ten days, and after giving it the Russians fell back. The Yamoot Turkomans who were in the Russian eamp, however, sent word to the T^k6 Turkomans that they were sick of their lives ; th?it the T^Je^ cavalry should fall upon the Russian troops with their swords as soon as they began to march back, and that they (the Yamoots) would also join them. This was carried out with much slaughter of the Russians. No. 170. Mr. Plwikett to the Marquis of Salisbury. ^-{Received November 4.) My Lord, St. Petersburffk, October 30, 1879. WITH reference to iny despatch of the 17th instant, I have the honour to inclose translation by Mr. Michell of a letter published in yesterday's " Golos,'' and dated Beurma, the f?JL' as"'". This is the first so public admission here of the disastrous nature of the defeat suffered at Geok-T^pe.by the Russian Transcaspian Expedition. Your Lordship will perceive that the loss during the storming of the T^ke position is estimated at 433, including 21 offlcei's, hors de combat. These numbers do not appear to include the losses which must have been suffered during the subsequent scene which the ^' Golos " correspondent confines himself to describing as " difficult to depict." I have. &c. (Signed) E. R. PLTJNKETT. m * 1 kharwar equal to 675 lbs. avi>ii4upoi8. .-. :$> > [127] Z2 172 Inclosure in No. 170. Substance of Article in the " Golos" of October }^, 1879. THE " Golos " of the ^ftli October contains a letter from its correspondent at Beurma, dated the mJl Ecwt^''", 1879, giving an account of the engagement between the Russian advanced detachment and the Tek'e Turkomans at Geok-T^p6, and the subse- quent retreat of the former. "... On the iolh se'iSlber the advanced detachment, consisting of two columns, approached Dengil-Tepe, where the T6kes were' encamped. The first column was under the command of Colonel Prince Dolgorouki, and consisted of 3 battalions of infantry, 2 squadrons of dragoons, 2 sotnias of Daghestan irregular troops, 2 sotnias of Cossacks, 1 horse' field and mountain battery, and 1 rocket sotnia. The second column, which was advancing from 8 to 10 versts in the rear of the first column, was commanded by Major- General Count Borck, and comprised 3 battalions of infantry, 3 sotnias of Cossacks, and 1 field battery. The transport train, which brought up the rear, was escorted by 6 mixed companies, under the command of Captain Kegamoff. The detachment advanced quietly and in perfect order. When within atout 10 versts of Den^il-Tep6 the advanced column was unexpectedly surrounded by the T^k^s, who had appeared on the left flank. The result of this sldrmish was not serious, there being no casualties on our side, and the Tekes only lost three men. "The detachment then advanced to the entrenched position of the T^k^s, and Colonel Prince Chavchavadji, with 3 sotnias of Daghestan irregulars, dragoons, and a rocket sotnia, was dispatched to the left flank, in order to dislodge the enemy from a mill which they occupied, and this was quickly effected, the T6k6s losing 15 men killed ; our loss was 2 men killed. " Approaching nearer to the enemy, our skirmishers opened a line of fire, after which the firing was in volleys, and the men then rushed forward with fixed bayonets. The enemy, unable to sustain the onslaught, retreated to Dengil-T^p^, leaving many killed ; our loss was inconsiderable. " At 5 P.M., on the arrival of Count Borck's column, the combined forces advanced to storm the position, but were repulsed by the T^kes, and compelled to retire to the mill, and subsequently one verst beyond. The whole night was passed in alarms, and at daybreak on the iSs^tomber* 1879, when the men were in profound sleep, shots were suddenly heard from the advanced lines, and a scene ensued which it would be difficult to depict "During the storming of the position, 433 of our men, including 21 officers, were placed hors de combat. Of this number, 7 officers and 176 privates were killed. . "The loss was frightful ; the percentage enormous — unprecedented; the strength of our battalions, after deducting the transport escort, was not more than from 220 to 300 men. " On the Jsoi September the detachment returned to Beurma. The Tekes annoyed us every night, and frequently diverted the water at the halting-places. On the |f th September the detachment safely arrived at the position of Terokan, where the arrival of General Tergukassoff is expected. The sick and wounded are being sent to Chat, at which place temporary military hospitals have been constructed. "The troops are in good condition, and as yet there is no epidemic. It is supposed that the troops will winter here, for which purpose kibitkas, made of felt, are to be provided." No. 171. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (^Received November 8.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, November 1, 3879. WITH reference to my despatch of the 11th ultimo, reporting that telegraphic communication had been opened by the Russian Government with Tchikishlar Yik Persia, I have now the honour to state that the submarine cable alluded to in iny despatch of the 24th June has also been successfully laid between Baku and Krasnovodsk direct, and is already announced in the papers of yesterday as being in working order. I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKETT. 173 No. 172. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salinbury. — (Received November 19.) My 'Lord, St. Petersburgh, November 14, 1879. 1 HAVE the honour to inclose herewith an extract from the " Journal de St. Pctersboiirf>- " of this morning-, giving- translations of a lengthened account of the Russian defeat at Dengil T^pe on the gfu'stpSber. which has been published in the official portion of the " Caucasus " newspaper. This official account confirms in the main what has already been known here for some time past,. Tlie Russian forces at the engagement are stated to have consisted of: — Infantry Cavalry Artillery Militia , « • • • . a • a * . • • • • • • • • « • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Men* 2,467 271 202 Total , , . . . . Of whom were — 3,790 a . . . a . • Officers. Men. Killed Wounded , , , . 7 20 170 248 Total 27 418 ■-^ Grand total hors de conihat 445 This Return would not seem to include the losses suffered on the retreat, after the Russians had failed in their attack upon the T6ke entrenchments, which, added to the number hors de combat in the engagement itself, are stated by officers who have returned here from the campaign, to have amounted altogether to over 1,000. I would beg- to call your Lordship's attention to the admissions contained in this official account of their military proceedings beyond the Caspian — that the T6kes were armed solely with the common weapons usual to Asiatics. This disposes of the accusation so often repeated liere, that the defeat was owing to the superior arms which England had treacherously fnrnislied to the enemies of Russia. I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKETT. Inclosure in No. 172. Extract from the "Journal de St. Pe'tersbourg " of November -^^, 1879. ON lit dans la partie officielle du journal le " Caucase," sous le titre de " Nou- velles du Trans- Caucase :" — " Au commencement du raois d'AoAt de cette annee, un detachement special a 6t6 form6 par le d^funt Aide-de-camp General Lazarew pour faire une campagne dans I'oasis d'Akhal-Tek6. Ce detachement se composait de troupes de la contrie Trans- Caspienne, au nombre de liuit et quart bataillons, deux escadrons, sept sotnias, at seize pieces d'artillerie. Les troupes etaient disposees dans la Valine de 1' Attrek, entre Tchekischliar et Douzoloum. " L'avant-garde de ce detachement, commandee par le Prince Dolgoroukow, Aide- de.camp de I'Empereur, a eu le 6 Aout une fusillade avec des Turcomans sur la route de Tersakan a Khodjamkala. " Les T6k6s out 6te battus a cette premiere rencontre. II en a et6 de meme a celle du 11 Aout, ou les colonnes volantes de l'avant-garde s'^taient port^es a une distance de 60 verstes de leurs campements : les notres ont fait un butin assez considerable, et les nomades se sont enfuis a Tint^rieur de la steppe. Nos troupes se sent concentr^es le 14 Aoiit a Khodjamkala et a Douzoloum, ayant leur avant-garde a Bendessen, dans la Valine du Konetdag. 174 " Le d^tachement a appris alors la nouvelle de la mort de 1' Aide-de-camp G^n^ral Lazarew ; le G^n^ral-Major Llamakin a pris le commandemeiit a titre de plus ancien des G6n6raiix presents ; il a concentre toutes les troupes a Bendessen, d'oii il s'est port6 BUT deux coloimes a Beourm, les 22 et 23 AoAt, laissant a Bendessen un bataillon du regiment de ScMrvan, deux pieces d'artillerie, et quelques hommes de milice pour couvrir les chariots d'intendance qu'on laissait en cet endroit. '* Le d^tachement lui-meme, ayant avec lui une caravane de chameaux et pour quinze jours de vivres, s'est avance sur deux colonnes. '• La premiere, ceUe d'avant-garde, sous les ordres du Prince Dolgoroukow, com- prenait deux bataillons des regiments du Kour et de la Kabardie, un bataillon de tirailleurs, -un escadroa de dragons de P^r^iaslaw, une sotnia de Cosaqnes de Volga, et deux sotnigis de troupes irr^guli^res du Daghestan, quatre pieces mont^es, et quatre pieces de montagne ; elle a atteint Beourm le 23 Ao-dt, et a poursuivi par les aouls d'Artchman, de Souiighi, de Mourga, et de Bakharzek sur Douroun, ou elle s'est arret^e. " La seconde colonne, sous les ordres du G^n^ral-Major Comte de Borch, de la suite de Sa Ma^est^, se composait de trois bataillons des regiments d'Erivan, de G^orgie, et de Schirvan, de trois sotnias Cosaques, et de quatre pieces de campagne ; il a quitt6 Bendessen le 13 AoAt et est arrive a Douroun le 26 Aout. - " Suy eette route, de 8§ verstes de longueur, on n'a pas aper9u de traces de Turcomans T6k6s, et les aouls ^ar lesquels passaient les troupes ^talent deserts a I'exception de cdui d'Artcbman, ou quelques habitants ^talent rest^s. Ceux-ci ont repris confiance a I'arriv^e de notre arm6e, et ont fait meme avec elle quelques opera- tions commerciales. La partie de I'oasis qui avait ^t^ parcourue t^moignait d'une grande richesse de plantations de tabac, de coton, et de fruits, et I'eau j ^tait en abondance. La population devait etre nombreuse ; elle 6tait presque toute concentrde en ce moment h Q^ofc-T^p^ et a Aakhabad, oti elle s'^tait refugi^e. " Prfes de Douroun nos troupes ont yu paraitre quelques caraliers Turcomans, qui ont 6chang6 une fusillade avec eUes. " A Noukhour, repos. Le 27 AoM I'arm^e est arriv^e a I'aoul de Yaroda, apr^s avoir traverse les villages deserts de Karagan, Ak-T4p6, Yangicala, et Mekhine, sur une route de 23 verstes. " Le 28 AoAt I'arm^e s'est avanc^e davantage. Le G^n^ral-Major Llamakin a d6barrass6 les deux colonnes des transports qui les suivaient, et n'a laiss6 aupr^s d'eUes qu'une partie des chameaux avec les caisses de cartouches et les tonneaux,aeau,; il a iormi) une colonne nouvelle de tous les transports et a charg^ du soin de la couvrir six oompagnies d'infanterie, une sotnia de Cosaques du Taman, et deux pieces de montagne ; il a envoy^ cette colonne apr^s ceUe du Comte Borch, qui 6tait.elle-m^m6 pr6c6d^ de ceUe du Prince Dolgoroukow. ** A 8 verstes de I'aoul f ortifi^ de Denghil-T^p^, des masses assez consid^ra/bles de nomades ont paru h droite et a gauche de la colonne d'avant-garde, au pied de la chalne de montagne. La colonne n'en a pas moins continue sa marche, en pr6v6nant celle du Comte Borch qu'elle serait vraisemblablement attaqu^e. " Vers 10 heures du matin 1,000 de nomades h cheval r^unis pr^s d'Egmanbatyr sont tomb^s en effet sur le flanc droit de notre seconde colonne. Une sotnia du regiment du Volga, envoy^e contjre eux et soutenue par la milice du Caucase, s'est bravement battue et a perinis aux pieces de montagne et de campagne et a trois compagnies du regiment d'Erivan de se d^ployer. Les nomades, assaiUis par le feu de riofanterie et de I'artillerle, se sont enfuis a Egmanbatyr et n'ont plus reparu ce joTir-la. Pendant ce temps d'autres masses de cavalerie ennemie attaquaient le flanc gauche de notre cavalerie d'avant-garde. Les T6k6s ont 6t& battus encore en cet endroit, et se sont enfuis a 2 verstes au-dela de Denghil-T^p^. "Apr^s s'etre approch^ h, une distance de 600 sagfenes de I'enceinte fortifl^e, I'avant-garde a pris quelque temps de repos. " L'aoul de Denghil-T6p6 est dispose en rectangle : U est entour^ au nord et h I'ouest d'un foss6 de deux sag^nes de prof ondeur, qui est lui-m^ine suivi d'un autre f oss6 plein d'eau. Sur plusieurs points, pour f aciliter la defense de ces retranchements, ^taient dispos6es des rang^es de kibitkas, dont quelques-unes 6fcaient remplies de terre et dont quelques autres avaient au contraire devant elles des fosses assez larges. Derri^re ces kibitkas se trouvaient de nouveaux retranchements et plus loin les kibitkas de la population qxii etait venue y chercher un refuge. Un vaste syst^me de canaux et de murailles de terre compl^tait ces fortifications. " Cet aoul comprenait 15,000 nomades a cheval et h pied, avec des armes de toute espSce. Les fusils de la plupart d'entre eux 6taient de ceux dont se servent jusqu'ici 175 les peuplades Asiatiques ; tr^s-peu de ces armes etaient de construction perf ectionnee et de tir lointain. " 4-Pi'^s une heure de repos, la colonne du Prince Dolgoroukow a pris position devant raoul, a 350 sag^nes des fortifications principales. La cavalerie de cette colonne, command^e par le Prince Schavtcliavadz^, a 4st6 charg^e de nettoyer le terrain de la cavalerie ennemie au nord de I'aoul et de prendrp la position de flanc. "La cavalerie s'est brillamment acquitt^e de la tacne qui lui ^tait confine. Malgr^ la defense d6sesp6r4e de I'ennenii, le regiment du Dagliestaii a occup6 le moulin ,ou les T6k^s s'^taient retranch,6s. Lc Prince Tcliavtchavadz6, observant que des masses Considerables d'infanterie s'avan9aient sur le terraia de la lutte, a lance contre celles-ci ses dragons et a ouvert centre elles un feu d'artUlerie tr^s-nourri et'les a obligees ainsi h, leculer, « " Notre cavalerie a pu continuer sa marcbe victorieuse ; les dragons de P^reiaslaw ont d6blay6 tout le terrain au nord de I'aoul et ont arr^t^ les efforts de I'infanterie Turcomane dirig^s contre notre artillerie et nos travailleurs. Le Lieutenant-Colonel Prince GaJitsyne, Aide-de-camp de rEmpereiu', a la t6te de deux sotnias du regiment du Dagkestan. a 6t6 envoys pour couper les communications de rennemi sur le c6t6 est de Taoul, Le Prince Galitsyne a trouve de ce obte un ouvrage fortifi^ qui 6tait isol6 de I'ensemble, s'en est empar6 et s'y est maiutenu malgr6 les tentatives des Turcomans de Ten d^busquer a leur tour, Un escadron de dragons arriv^ k I'aide des deux sotnias de Cosaques a d^finitivement assur6 notre succ^s sur cette partie du terrain de la lutte. " Pendant ce temps, I'artillerie de I'avant-garde avait ouvert un feu nourri sur les masses epaisses des Turcomans qui se pressaient entre le rempart priucipal et les fortifixaitions avanc^es. La plus grande partie d'entre eux fut bient6t pepoussee au-dela du eanal des ouvr^ges avanc4s et notre infanterie fut .ciiargj6e d'aller occuper ces ouvrages. A peine s'l^tait-elle mise en mouvement, que de nouvelles masses de Turcomans, armis pour la plupart d'armes blancbes, sortiyent de derri^re le rempart principal et se jetdrent au devant de nos troupes. Elles ne purent cependant pas soutenir leur effort et s'enf uireui; en d^sordre en laissant sur le terrain leurs morts et leurs blesses, poursuivis par notre infanterie ^et par le feu de nos pieces d'artUlerie mont^e. " Le but primitif etait atteint. Devant Ic nombre considerable des troupes ennemies, et la faiblesse de I'effectif du corps d'avant-garde, U ne failait pas songer a s'emparer du renipart principal, mais on devait attendre I'arrivee de la seoonde colonne. L'infanterie s'est etabfie fortement le plus pr^s possible de i'aoul, et I'artillerie n'a pas cess6 de tirer sur I'ennemi, de la position qu'eUe occupait au d^but de I'affaire. "A3 heures de I'apris^midi, les troupes du Comte Borch sont arriv6es. Elles ont et4 bient6t aprSs form^es en ligne d'attaque et dirig^es contre la front nord des fortifications. Toutes leife pieces d'artillerie de cette colonne ont ouvert le feu en mdme temps que les pieces de la colonne d'avant-f arde, " Les deux colonnes ocoupaient ainsi toute la position au nord et a I'ouest de I'aoui ] ayant a leur flanc droit un bataiUon du j-egiment du Kour, et un bataillon du regiment de la Kabardie ; une compagnie de sapeurs ; trois compagnies du bataillon de tirailleurs, deux pieces de campagne et deux pieces du montagne; au centre et au flanc jgauebe un bataillon du raiment d'Erivan et un bataOlon des grenadiers de G^orgie, une compagnie de tirailleurs, un «scadron de dragons, quatre piSces mont^es, deux pieces d!ajtilleaie 4 pied, et deux pieces de montagne. "L'eytremite du flanc gauebe, tourne co;ipire le front, est de I'aoul .et contre la route d'Askbabad, comprenait deux sotnias du regiment de Dagbestan, un escadron de dragons, un demi-esoadron du regiment de Pereiaslaw, une sotnia de regiment de Taman, et deux pieces aiontees. La reserve priacipale se composait d'un bataUloh du regiment de Scbirvan, et de deux sotnias des regipients du Yolga et de Taman. Le train etait protege par les six compagnies mixtes d'infanterie, des six bataUlpns qui vienuent d'ltre nommes. " Le feu de douze pieces d'artillerie dirige sur un esp?.ce j-elMiiven^ent asse? restreint, oii etait concentree la population de toute la partie nord de i'oasis et de la majorite des villages environnants a Test et a I'ouest, ne pouvait manquer de produire des ravages terribles dans une masse d'hommes aussi compacte. On s'est bientdt aper9U que toute la cavalerie ennemie, n'osant pas renouveler ses attaques, ou. elle ayait toujours eu le dessous, se retirait sur Askbabad, oii les Turcomans de I'Akbal- Teke avaient forme, avec ceux de Merv, un second camp retrancbe. On a su en outre que le Commandant superieur de Dengbil-Tepe, Berdy Mourad, fils aine du 176 Kliau de Merv, Noiivercla Klian, avait ete tue, aiusi que Kara-Batyr, ct que plus d'un millier Turcomans etaient morts. " On pouA'ait croire que les habitants et les defenseurs de Dengliil-Tepe etaient a toute extremite et allaient signifler leur soumission a I'autorite Russe. En cflPet, quelques detachemeuts Turcomans parurent bientot en parlementaires et demand^rcnt que le feu d'artillerie Mt interrompu. On leur repondit que les principaux ichans et les Cbefs d'armee ennemie devaient se presenter eux-memes et solliciter leur grace. Ces derniers cependant ne se montr^rent pas. " Cette circonstance, jointe au fait que I'ennemi semblait vouloir profiter de la nuit pour se retirer de DenghU-Tepe siu* Askhabad, comme I'avait d6ja fait la plus grande partie de sa cavalerie, nous a decides a tenter un coup decisif. Notre succ6s paraissaic certain, en raison du desordre qui si manifestait parmi la population enferm^e dans I'aoul et des pertes considerables que I'ennemi avait subies. " L'aoul devait etre attaque a la fois par tout I'ensemble de nos forces. A 5 heures du soir nos troupes ont ete lancees a I'assaut. Elles ont traverse sous le feu de I'ennemi tout I'espace qui les separait des fortifications et se sont jetees dans 1q foss6 des ouvrages avances et sur le parapet. L'infanterie du centre et du flanc gauche s'est emparee bientot du front nord de I'enceinte et s'est fraye un chemin jusquau rempart principal. EUe s'est heurtiee alors a I'obstacle qui lui offraient un fosse rempli d'eau qui la separait de I'ennemi et plusieurs rangees de kibitkas qui servaient de defense. line melee s'est engagee en cet endroit ; les Tekes ne sont jetes en foule sur nos braves soldats des regiments d'Erivan et de Georgie et les ont forces d'arreter leur marche en avant. " Nos troupes du flanc droit ont trouve de meme un obstacle presque insurmon* table dans le fosse des ouvrages avances, ont subi des pertes considerables, et n'ont i)u s'emparer que d'une partie du parapet et du fosse int^rieur. " II etait impossible de continuer la lutte dans ces conditions. II fallait faire cesser I'attaque, car on ne pouvait plus esperer de succ^s. La retraite aussit6t com- mencee a fait croire au± T6k6s qu'ils pouvaient nous attaqu^r a leur tour et une masse ennemie compacte au nombre de 3,000 bommes environ, s'est jet^e sur ceux des notres qui abandonnaient le front nord de I'enciente. Ce n'est que gr&ce a Taction de notre artillerie, ainsi qu'al 'envoi d'un bataillon du r^girnent de Schirvan, d'un demi- escadron de dragons et de quelques aiitres troupes de la reserve que les T6k6s ont ^te repousses et rejet^s en desordre, apr^s avoir perdu moitie de leur effectif . "La retraite du flanc droit s'est op6ree avec moins de difficulty. Le nombre des Turcomans qui ont menac6 de ce c6te etait moins considerable et leur attaque a 6i6 repoussee. " Quand la nuit fut venue, le feu a et6 arrete sur toute la ligne et toutes nos troupes se sont retirees a une verste de I'enceinte, sans etre inqui^t^es par I'ennemi, " II fallait alors pourvoir au salut des blesses et donner dd repos aux trbupes, qui etaient tr^s-epuisees de la lutte. L'absence d'eau en cet endroit leur etait tres- sensible. L'eau avait ete detoum^e des canaux par les Tek6s eux-memes vers les villages des aouls du nord. II a fallu ainsi se retirer a I'aube, vers l'aoul de Karry-Kariz, k 10 verstes de Dengbil-Tepe, ou Ton pouvait plus ais^ment se reorganiser. " Les pertes subies par notre detachement etaient tr^s-grandes. Sur 2,467 hommes d'infanterie, 850 de cavalerie, 271 d'artillerie, et 202 de milice, que comptait le detachement, 3,014 avaient prife part a I'aflaire du 28. Or, 7 oflciers et 170 soldats avaient 6t6 tues, 20 officiers et 248 soldats etaient blesses ; 8 soldats avaient disparu. On ne pouvait songer avec un effectif aussi r6duit a lutter contre un ennemi dix fois plus nombreux, et d'ailleurs on n'avait de provisions que juste ce qu'il fallait pour la route de retraite sur Bendessen. Les voitures dont on disposait etaient a peine suffisanfces pour le transport des blesses et du materiel. " On avait appris en meme temps que beaucoup des chameaux du service des com- munications avaient p6ri, et Ton pouvait craindre que les vivres n'arriveraient plus que difficilement aux troupes actives. On a r^solu des lors de se replier d^finitivement sur notre base d'operations. *' Aprfes un jour de repos h Karry-Karis, notre detachement a marche sur Beourm, en faisant des stapes de 10 a 12 verstes, sans etre inquiet^ par I'ennemi. "L'affaire du 28 AoAt a cause aux Turcomans des pertes si 6normes, et a produit sur toute la population nomade un effet si terrifiant, que celle-oi n'a pas meme cu la pensee d'attaquer notre ligne de retraite. " Nos troupes sont arrivees le 4 Septembre a Beourm. 177 " La nouvelle de la reduction de notre service de transports s'est confirmee ; on s'est convaincu qu'il n'y avait pas d'espoir de r^parer ce domnaage en peu de temps. " La perte d'un grand nombre de chameaux, qui mouraient chaque jour par cen- taines, jointe au vol de quelques autres de ces animaux par les guides indigenes, qui s'etaient enfuis en les emmenant, tout cela a rendu tr^s-difficile I'organisation de nos transports. On n'a pu former des d^p6ts de reserve ni a Beourm, ni a Bendessen, ni a KHodjamkala. II ne restait done plus qu'a abandonner enti^rement Toasis et a se retirer dans la Vallee de I'Attrek. _ " Le detacbement est revenu le 20 Septembre a Tersakan, par la m^me route qu'il avait suivie quelque temps auparavant. II s'est concentr^ en cet endroit, oh est arrive le Lieutenant- G6n6ral Tergoukassow, nomm6 Commandant des troupes de la region Trans-Caspienne. * " Malgr^ les pertes qu'elles avaient subies, les troupes du detacbement ont et^ trouv^es en tr^s-bon 6tat par le G^n^ral Tergoukassow. Apr6s s'etre rendu compte de r^tat du service des transports et des conditions climateriques du village de Ter- sakan, 6u les troupes ^taient camples, il a ete resolu que le detacbement se retirerait sur Douzoloum, qu'une partie retournerait a Tcbat et a Tcbekiscbliar, et que I'effectif du corps exp^ditionnaire serait reduit pendant la saison d'biver." No. 173, Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 24.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, November 17, 1879. WITH reference to my despatch of the 22nd ultimo, I have the honour to inform your Lordship that the "Moscow Gazette" of the ?5?u November, 1879, contains the following telegram from the Chief of the expedition for exploring the Oxus and for surveying the proposed route for the Central Asian Railway : — " Katty Kurgan, fJJli November. "On the 7th October we met the Khan of Khiva on the banks of the Oxus, at the commencement of the ancient channel or Uzboi, and passed the day with him at Urgentch. The Khan stated the conditions under which he is ready to allow the water to enter the Uzboi ; in proof of his readiness to assist the Russian Government, the Khan has given orders to destroy the Beut Dam on the Zauzan Canal, and Sharaurat Dam on the Darialyk. The Elders of the Yomud and Tchaudar Turkomans undertake to furnish workmen at once for the clearing of the Uzboi, between Sary-Kamysh and the Caspian. Particulars will be sent with Report of the labours of the expedition." I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKETT. No. 174 Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 28.) (Telegraphic.) Tehran, November 28, 1879. I HAVE received from Consul Churchill the following telegram, dated yester- day :— " I am informed that the Turkoman tribes are this time coming in great force ; they have attacked a Russian convoy at Dhozulum with cavalry, and succeeded in capturing a large number of laden camels." No. 175. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received November 30, 7 p.m.) (Telegraphic.) . , Tehran, November 30, 1879. I HAVE received a telegram from the Meshed Agent stating, but without giving his authority, that Eyub Khan has prepared 10,000 troops, and intends marching to attack Candahar, and that for this purpose he is levying a forced contribution from the inhabitants. [127] 2 A 178 No. 176. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 2.) My Lord, Tehran, October 9, 1879. I HAYE the honour to report to your Lordship tliat, according to information which I have received from Herat in letters dated the 16th September, nothing seems to have been known up to that date at Herat of the mutiny and massacre at Cabul. It is stated that when the outbreak of the Cabul regiments occurred at Herat, Eyub Khan, who had been entirely ignora.nt of what was going on, attempted to put down the disturbance, but arrived too late, for when he reached the spot General Fakeer Ahmed Khan was already killed, and his house had been sacked and levelled with the ground. I have, &o. (Signed) EONALD T. THOMSON. •■^— •■^'■nii-'iil-'iitfi nn.irTTiin miiiiiMii ■iMii»i ^[iiMiin«iiiiin "■■ -■ - No. 177. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 2.) My Lord, Tehran, October 13, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that the last news which has reached tills place from ('hat is that General Tergukassow was at that place with about 4,000 cavalry, who had been sent there after the defeat which the Russians had sustained at the hands of the Turkomans, ag at Karee-Kala, to which the main body had retreate4, there was not sufficient forage to be obtained for thera. The following statement has come to me from a different source: — On the llth Sep- tember, the anniversary of the birthday of tlie Czar, the flying column, consisting of 2,000 men, went forward ; 16,000 Turkomans attacked them, and they defended themselves until they had used up all their cartridges, when they retired, having lost 23 officers and 500 men killed and wounded. They, therefore, retreated to Chat, whence it is not proposed that the expedition should re-advance this season. There had been, and continued to be, a great deal of illness among the troops. I have also the honour to inform your Lordship that it is reported that the Russians had 4,000 troops ready to embark from Baku for Chekishler, but that it is believed that, owing to the recent defeats and the advanced state of the season, the campaign lias now been brought to a close for this year. I have, &c. (Signed) EONALD P. THOMSON. No. 178. Mr* R, Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 2.) (Extract.) Tehran, October 16, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that I have this morning received a telegram from Her Majesty's Consul at Asterabad, in which he reports that, according to information which he has received through a Turkoman, the main body of the Russian array had returned to Chat on its way back to Chekishler, and that it had been given out that large reinforcements were daily expected at the latter place. No. 179. Mfi R. Thomson tb the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Recdived Deceraher 2.) My LoM, _ Tehrdn, October 24, 1879. I HAVE the honour to forward, for your Lordshii)'3 information, translation of the letters which T have received from the Meshed Agent and from Herat, as well as 179 translation of a letter from the Akhal Qhiefs^ giving- an account of the defeat of the Russians, and mentioning the defection of Tokhmeh Sirdar from the Russian cause. I have, S^c. (Signed) RONALD F. THOMSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 179. (Translation.) September 28, 1879. ACCORDING to news brought by messengers from Cabul, the real state of affairs at that place is not written to Sirdar Eyub Khan. They fthe messengers] state that great confusion prevails there, and t^at the revolt was [? not I instigated by tlie Ameer, but by Sirdar Veli Mahommed Khan, brother to A^veer Sjiere^AH Khan, that much blood has been shed at Cabul, for some of the Kizzel Bashes went to the assistance of tl^ ^it¥^ officers, and that the Ameer- sqems very niuch troubled in his Governrowt, This news appears to be true, for, during the last" two or three days Eyub Khan has been very low- spiriteti, and does not gome out to attend to business. It ia said that several Elders of the Yulatan Turkomans and some froRi P^njdeh have applied to Moollah Yusuf , the Chief of Hezareh, asking him to fix a placfi for then^ t^P come and reside at with their families, Inclosure 2 in No. 179, The Meshed Agent to Mr. R. TTipmson. (Translation.) (Extract.") October 1%,1B79, IT appears tha^ I^lirza, Mahommed Ali, the newly appointed Deputy-Governor of Seistan,,eiitered that province by way of Furrah, where n? was met by most of the Seistan Chiefs who had fled to Lash, Furrah, Chekishlpr, &c., because of the tyranny of the Heshmut-ul-Mulk, and having reassured them Tas to the course he intended pursuing] took them back with him to Seistan. He has repprted to the Prince Governor that he has been able to arrange all the affairs of the province excepting two, one of which is that ready money is wanted, and the qther that there is not sufficient grain to tneet the wa.nts of the inhabitants for the present year, for the Heshnuit-ul-Miilk had only left 600 kharvars of barley and 8 kharvars of wheat in the province. The |*rinpie Governor now intends dispatching money and prpvisions to Seistan, and an officer to inquire into the accounts pf ithe Heshmut-.ul-Mulk and recover any deficit due by him, I learn from iVtery that the 2,000 hprsenien sent by Noor Verdee Khan to assist the Akhal Turkomans have returned, as the Russians have retreated from that {*o\intry. Frpp Boojnoord it ig reported that the Russians have returned tq Bund-i-ll^ssan, which is situated between Karee-Kala and the Akhal country; that they have susta.ined such a defeat that it is impossible for the present troops to rally unless fl-esh ones are dispatched, and that the Turkomans have become so daring that they continually make attacks upon the Russian camp. — , who is in the [Russian] camp, writes that the Russians themselves admit their loss to be 700 men, 700 rifles, 1 gun, and stores. Inclosure 3 in No. 179. The Akhal Chiefs to (Translation.) OpfoZjer 13, 1879. ON the 8th September the Teke Turkomans were attacked by tlie Russian ^roaps, altlioqgh the former had not yet completed their earthworks and moat. 4 severe fight ensued, and at last the Russians were beaten and fled to Bund-i-Hassan. Theiv Iqss wap 16 officers and 2,000 men, The Tdke loss was 500 men, amongst whom were Berdee Mprad Khan, the ^on pf Nooi- Verdee, Rhan, Koorban Khan, and Aman Geldu Vizier, the son of Mahommed Eishan. 2,000 Tekfe have followed the Russians with the intention of making a night attack upon them. Tokhmeh Sirdar has deserted the Russians and come amongst the Teke's. Khodayar Bahadur is for the present acting- [as Chief of the Tekes] until the arrival of Noor Verdee IChan. [127] 2 A 2 180 No. 180. Mr. R. Thomson to the Marquis of Salisbury.-— {Received December 2.) (Extract.) Tehran, November 4, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, for your Lordship's information, transla- tion of a letter from Herat. Inclosure in No. 180. Letter from Herat. (Translation.) October 12, 1879. IT is rumoured that Ameer Yakoub Khan is coming shortly to Herat. On the arrival of the post some days ago Mirza Mahommed Moonshee opened and read all letters addressed to people here ; it was therein stated that British troops had started for Quetta, but had returned with reinforcements after having gone three stages on hearing of the outbreak at Cabul. Sirdar Eyub Khan has ordered that no one from Candahar shall be allowed to come to Herat, lest they should bring news of what is passing at Cabul. Every one is detained at Sabzewar. The Sirdar fears lest the inhabitants and soldiery should rise up in rebelUon on hearing of the state of affairs at Cabul. Cabul and Candahar appear to have passed out of the Ameer's hands, and he only possesses Herat, which, please God, will also be taken from him. The Sirdar states that in his last letters the Ameer ordered the three Cabul regiments who mutinied and murdered Fakeer Ahmed Khan to be disarmed and sent to him from here. The said regiments have, however, refused to march, demanding — 1st, that they should be paid >their two months' wages, which are in arrears ; 2nd, that the whole five Cabul regiments be sent; and 3rd, they state that they will not give up their arms, and must be accompanied by their artillery, and have their ammunition and all necessaries. The matter has been under discussion for the last six days, as the Sirdar is not disposed to give in, and the three Cabul regiments refuse to go without their companions or without their arms, artillery, &c. Eyub Khan has collected about 3,000 Herat cavalry outside the walls as a measure of precaution in view of a general conflict, which he apprehends may take place between the Herat troops and the Cabul regiments ; and that the inhabitants will suffer accordingly, as from all one can gather there is every probability of serious disturbances. There is not a single farthing coming in from the whole of the Herat Province. The present year's revenue has been levied during the first seven months of the year, and the Sirdar does not know what to do for the next five. Turkestan is in a state of confusion. Since hearing the news from Cabul, no authority is recognized by any one. No.- 181. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 2.) My Lord, Asterabad, October 5, 1879. I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship, herewith inclosed, copies of my despatches of the 29th September and 5th October respectively, addressied to Her Majesty's Minister Plenipotentiary at Tehran, with reference to the reported defeat of the Russians beyond Karee-Kala, and rumours of the falling back of the army on Chekishler. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHURCHILL. 181 Inclosure 1 in No. 181. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Asterabad, September 29, 1879. A TITRKOMAN of some importance of the Attibai tribe, has just come in, reporting- the total defeat of the Russians at Bendi Asen, on which, as I had the honour to report in ray despatch of the 23rd instant, they were marching in great force. It is assured that the losses of the Russians were counted by thousands, and that they were falling back on Chekishler, surrounded and harassed by the T6k6 Turkomans. The camp beyond Karee-Kalajiad been looted, and all their supplies of hay fired. I am awaiting further particulars. I have, &c. (Signed; HY. A. CHURCHILL. Inclosure 2 in No. 181. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. Sir, Asterabad, October 5, 1879. WITH reference to the report of the Russian defeat at Bendi Asen, as conveyed to your Excellency in my despatch of the 29th September, and my telegram of the same date, I have the honour to state that there appears to be no matter of doubt that a very severe engagement has occurred beyond Karee-Kala, and all reports agree in the fact that the Russians were roughly dealt with by the T6k^ Turkomans. I have not been able to acquire any further information on the reported falling back of the Russian army on Chekishler, but the Persian contractors of Asterabad for the supply of horned cattle to the Russian army, who had received orders to deliver their herds at Chat, have quite recently been instructed to wait a little and see where these supplies will be mostly required ; a measure that would indicate the possibility of a backward move. It might, however, refer to the arrival of fresh troops at Chekishler. The Russian Acting Consul, whom 1 saw yesterday, and who had just returned from Ashuradeh, does not deny the Russian defeat. He pretended to have heard of it from the Persians only, whose reports were always, he said, exaggerated. Yesterday the line of telegraph connecting Chekishler with Asterabad was com pleted ; by this means that military post on the Attrek will be connected with every other part of the Russiain Empire. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHURCHILL. No. 182. Consul Churchill to the Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 2.) My Lord, Asterabad, October 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship, herewith inclosed, a copy of my despatch of this day's date, addressed to Her Majesty's Minister at Tehran, relative to the falling back of the Russian army upon Chekishler. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. OHURCHII^L. Inclosure in No. 182. Consul Churchill to Mr. R. Thomson. gir^ Asterabad, October 15, 1879. I HAD the honour to transmit to you yesterday a telegram to the effect that from information derived from a Turkoman who had come from a place named Gudouree, half way between Chat and Chekishler, it appears certain that the main body of 182 the Russian army had fallen back upon Chat, and was on its way to Chekishler, where, however, large reinforcements were daily arriving. It is difficult to say what rpay have led to this retrogressive move. Is it to be attributed to the change of command, to the difficulties of the read, to want of sufficient forage, or want of transport? All that can at present be said is that the expedition is not abandoned, but retarded by some cause that is not explained. The Turkoman further reports that the Merv Chief Noor Verdee Khan bad reached the country of the Akhal Teke Turkomans at the head of 12,000 foot- men and many horsemen, with twelve guns, and that he had sent a message to the Yamoot Turkomans, threatening to treat them as enemies if they continued to supply the Russians with means of transport and food. On the other hand, in consequence of the appointment of Geldee Khan tq t^je Chieftainship of the Jaaferbai Turkomans by the Governor of Asterabad, hostilities were impending in this neighbourhood between the Persians and the Turkomans, as Mohamed Khan Pangh, who, after Kileej Khan's removal, became Chief of the Noor Ali sub-division of the JaaferlDais, has declared his determination to oppose Geldee Khan's nomination. An infantry regiment, composed of 400 men, has recently arrived from Tehran, and 400 cavalry are on their way to join the Persian forces on this frontier. I have, &c. (Signed) HY. A. CHURCHILL. No. 183. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. -rr-^Ileceived December 8.) My Lord,, St. Petersburgh, December 3, 1879. THE inclosed translation of an extract from the " St. Petersburgh Gazette " gives an account of an eye-witness of the disaster to the Russian army at Geuk-T6p^. Your Lordship will notice that this statement differs from the official account forwarded in my despatch No. 588 of the 14th ultimo as regards the nuniber of killed and wounded. The numbers now given, are 13 officers an^ 300 men killed ; and 24 officers and 400 men wounded. I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKETT. Inclosure in No. 183. Extract from the " St. Petersburgh Gazette," (Translation.) THE "St. Petersburgh Gazette" contains the following statements, derived from an eye-witness, of the number of R^ussian killed and wounded at Geuk-T^p6, and of the transport of the sick and wounded during the retreat of the Russian detach- ment : — " In. regard to the losses we incurred nothing definite was known on the first day. As usual in such cases the loss was frightfully exaggerated, and every rumour was readily believed. It was only on the third day after the battle that more accurate data could be obtained. It is true that the losses of the T6k6s in the engagement was enormous, but our loss was not inconsiderable ; we lost killed, 13 officers and about 300 private soldiers. Their bodies remained in the hands of the enemy. Our wounded anftounted to 24 officers and about 400 privates. "The sanitary train had only 10 small carrioles ; each of these held 4 wounded, and it was impossible for one patient to move without disturbing the others. These 10 carrioles could only accommodate 40 men, whei?e^s there were 400 wounded in all. " The other means of transport possessed by the detachment were of three descriptions : 1st, one "\Faggcm belonging to the regiment of Dragoons, and which held 8 men (and then only by ingenious packing, as 6 men could hardly find place in it) ; 2nd, the backs and sides of camels to which the wounded men had to be tied ; tiie t^d mqde of conveyance was the patients' own powers of looomotipn, " Thus out of the 40Q wounded, 40 were conveyed in the " Red Cross " oaimole^, 8 were placed in the ambulance waggon, and the remainder either rode on cajmels or 185 proceeded on foot. Eveiything went well while the road was level, but when the ground became unfeven, and ditches, &c., had to be crossed, the wounded fared badly; bandages shifted from the many jolts, and the sufferers became exhausted from loss of blood until the doctor or dresser arrived to render assistance. The wounded tied on the backs of camels underwent dreadfal suffering from the uneven gait of the^e animals, and were tossed from side to side." No. 184. Mr, Plmhett to tlie Marquis of Salisbury. — (Received December 8.) My Lord, Bt. Petersburgh, December % 1879. THE " Orenburg Listok " states that, according to information received by it from Eort Perovski in the Syr Daria region, a rumour was there current to the effect that four regiments newly raised from among the Orenburg Cossacks were to have been dispatched in the autumn to the Province of Turkestan. The Sotnias which were to b^ relieved by these regiments, and which were marphing home, haVe been detained at Tashkend for an indefinite period. I have, &c. (Signed) P. R. PLUNKMT; Ko. 185. Mr. Plunkett to the Marquis of Salisbury. — {Received December 22.) My Lord, St. Petersbwgh, December 15, 1879. I HAVE the honour to inclose three items of Turkestan news which havd been furnished to me by Mr. Michell. I hav€ &c (Signed)/ ' F."e. PLtJNKIlTf. Inclosure in No. 185. Substance of Articles in the Russian PresSi ACCORDING- to the " Turkestan Gazette," a census was taken on the ^fth. April, 1879, in the town of Yernol and in the adjoining stations and settlements. The number of inhabitants of both sexes, exclusive of the troops (3,586 men), was 14,837, the total number of inhabitants being 18,423. Another census was simultaneously taken, by order of the Statistical Cprnmittee of the region, in Karakol, Pishpek, Kapal, and at the station of Lepsa. The result of the censps at these places is not stated. St. Petersburgh, December 11, 1879. The "St. Petersburgh Vedomosti " of the SfSblf. 1879, states that Mat Muradj formerly Divan-begi of the Khan of Khiva, with his faithful adherent Rakhmet Ullu, an Isaul Bashi, who have been living as exiles in the Province of K&luga since 1874, have,; in consequence of a representation made by the Governor-General of T*urkeataB to His Majesty the Emperor, been allowed to return to their native country. From the " Turkestan Gazette" o/S-^oltwl, 18f9. Vhe correspondent of the " Turkestan Gazette " writes from Djizak as follows :— "Afe«- days ago there returned from Kashgar two natives who had voluntarily absented themselves from ]3jizak with Ibrahim Bek (brother of Allayar, former Bek of Djizak), in order to join Hakim Khan-tud. According to the account of these natives, th '■<-'•£' " After concluding our excursion through Central Asia we explored the Lauzan and its aflauents, as also a part of the Darialyk and the nine dams constructed by the Khivans for the purpose of obstructing the passage of the waters of the Oxus into the Uzboi. The expedition was composed of M. Liapunofi", engineer and chief of the Amu-darya section ; Lieutenant- Captain Zubofij and two members of the Government expedition, Baron Kopp and Prince Giedroy. The following Khivan officials were also of the party :— Mekhter and the Kipchak Beks of HodjeU and Kumia-Urgentch. By order of the Khan of Khiva 700 workmen destroyed the Bent dam at the effluence of the Lauzan and Shamrat into the Darialyk, and 800 workmen in the course of one week deepened the Lauzan for a distanpe of 12 versts. The work was superintended by Melihter, who twenty-two years ago constructed the Bent dam, and alongside of it a fort, by order of the father of the present Khan. This was done in order to subdue the Turkomans living along the Darialyk by cutting off their water supply. " The Jomuds and Tchandars repeatedly attacked the fort during a term of seven years in order to destroy the dam, but were each time repulsed. The Khivans undertake early in the spring of next year, before the water reaches its full height, to destroy the dams of Mulla-Dundar, Merdek, and Tash-Bougofc, to deepen and widen the Lauzan, 185 N'orak, and Cliarkrauk, in all for a distance of 40 versts, and to admit the water into the Uzboi bj the .most direct route, the same by which caiques used to proceed to Kuuia- Urgentch twenty-five years ago in the time of Madamen Khan. Pointing to recent experience and to their power of managing the waters of the Oxus, the Khivans guarantee the, success of the undertaking, and assert that they can force the water in a rapid stream into the Uzboi, especially if the Russians will assist them by Constructing' a dam half across the mouth of the Lauzan on the right bank of the Oxife. "In a letter addressed to me on the -/g-th October last the Khan of Khiva expressed his readiness to assist the Eussians in the work of diverting the waters of the Oxus. If the Eussians decide on diverting all the water of the Oxus into the Uzboi, stopping its passage into the Sea of Aral, the Khan hopes that the frontier of the Khivan Khanate will remain as before the present line of the Oxus, and not the Uzboi, that the Lakes of Sara-Kamysh will be regarded as part of Khiva, and that Hodjeli and Kungrad will be supplied with water. The Khan is convinced that the Turkomans will transfer themselves to the Darialyk, and thus escaping from his authority will cease to pay him taxes. He consequently trusts that some reduction will be made in the yearly tribute paid by him to Eussia. " Besides the letter the Khan sent an ancient book, in which it is said that 300 years ago, during the reign of Soufian Khan, the Oxus, passing under the walls of Kunia- Urgentch, flowed into the Caspian near the Balkan hills, where the Orsal Turkomans lived, and who now inhabit the middle course of the Oxus. " Among the more interesting results of the expeditions of the present year must be mentioned the conclusive refutation of the theory as to the elevation of the Tursenian lowlands. The labour?, of 1876-77, as is known, proved that the inclination of the land, along the Lauzan towards the Uzboi is almost double that of the present river in the direction of the Sea of Aral, and that only an inconsiderable portion of the waters of the Oxus (one-eighth) is yearly expended in the irrigation of the Khivan oasis, while the greater portion is spent in the unproductive overflow of its delta, and is emptied into the Aral. This data, in connection with what has been proved on the spot, confirms the opinion of those explorers of the Oxus who are in favour of an immediate diversion of the Oxus into the Uzboi, by way of experiment, without waiting for the completion oi the scientific labours in connection with the question of the Oxus." jMniptiiMitai b^n 2 B rfWi ill mi>i i 1 i