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38 whom the troops love and respect. I had many opportunities of observing the conduct of the Sikh troops during the latter portion of the campaign in Afghánistán, and no praise could be too high for their patience under privation and their admirable and orderly behaviour towards the Afgháns, who it must be remembered were their bitter and ancient enemies.

What may be their value against European troops is a question which the future alone can authoritatively decide; but I would venture to express my conviction, which is shared by many distinguished officers of the Indian army, that the Sikhs, infantry and light cavalry, are, when well and sufficiently led by English officers, equal to any troops in the world, and superior to any with whom they are likely to come in contact.