1 HISTORY OF THE SIKHS, 233
2 to obtain by hostilities. The proof of its sincerity
3 is to be found in its moderation in the hour of
4 victory.
5 “* A just quarrel, followed by a successful war,
6 has not changed the policy of the British govern-
7 ment. The British government does not desire
8 to interfere in your internal affairs. I am ready
9 and anxious to withdraw every British soldier from
10 Lahore. At the earnest solicitation of the Sikh
11 government, I have reluctantly consented to leave
12 a British force in garrison at Lahore, until time
13 shall have been afforded for the reorganization
14 of the Sikh army, by which assistance the stipu-
15 lations of the treaty may be more easily carried
16 into effect.
17 “*In no case can I consent that the British
18 troops shall remain in garrison for a longer period
19 than the end of this year.
20 “*T state this publicly, that all the world may
21 know the truth, and the motives by which I am
22 actuated in this matter. >
23 “<The Sikh army must, according to the treaty, be
24 immediately reorganised by reverting to the same
25 system and rate of pay as in Runjeet Singh’s time,
26 “If the friendly assistance now afforded by the
27 British government be wisely followed up, and
28 honest exertions made by the chiefs without delay,
29 you will become an independent and_ prosperous
30 state.
31 “* The success or failure is in your own hands :
32 my co-operation shall not be wanting; but if you