1 226 HISTORY OF THE SiKHS.
2 prevent the recurrence of any disturbances. With
3 this view, it is very desirable that some British |
4 regiments, with artillery and officers, should be
5 directed to remain at Lahore for a few months for
6 the protection of the State. After affairs have
7 been satisfactorily settled, and the period which
8 may be fixed upon expired, the British troops will
9 then return.”
10 To the above paper the following reply was
11 made verbally, and was, at the request of the
12 minister and chiefs, written down and given to
13 them :—
14 “ The letter from the Maharajah to Major Law-
15 rence, expressing gratitude to the Governor-gene-
16 ral, has been read in presence of the minister and
17 chiefs of the Durbar. At the close of that letter,
18 it is requested that a British force may be left at
19 Lahore for a limited period.
20 “ Upon this it is to be observed, that from the
21 wording of the letter, it is not evident that the
22 retention of a British force at Lahore is sincerely
23 and urgently desired by the Lahore government,
24 and the nature of the disturbances which are to be
25 provided against, are not specifically described.
26 In so important a matter, general expressions are
27 out of place. The British government desires to
28 exercise no interference with the government of
29 Lahore, after the treaty of peace is concluded ;
30 and the Governor-general is not willing to have
31 any concern with the Lahore government, or to
32 accede to any measures not provided for by the