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164 pur. But still, though the disaffection was on the increase, no specific action could be taken — only general precautions, and readiness to move and strike when necessary. The existing military arrangements were not satisfactory. The Oudh Irregular (or Local) Force, consisting of three batteries, three regiments of cavalry, and ten of infantry, was commanded by Brigadier Gray, and was in a measure under Sir Henry's orders. But the Oudh Regular Brigade, under Brigadier Handscombe, formed part of the Cawnpur Division, which was commanded by Sir Hugh Massey Wheeler. Lawrence made up his plans for a better distribution of these troops, and applied to the Governor-General for high military rank and for the command of all the force in the Province, in case of emergency. This was sanctioned later on. Meanwhile, he held prolonged consultations on matters pertinent to the situation with all classes of officials and of the general community — the Commissioners, the leading commanding officers of other stations, natives of rank, and native officers of the army. As time went on, and the month of May approached, he felt certain that matters were steadily growing worse. Incendiarism and nightly seditious gatherings in the Camp of Exercise at Ambála in the north were in full swing. Lord Canning, although he was certainly anxious and alarmed, did not seem to realize the gravity of the crisis. Sir Henry's advice did not rouse him into action; and, though he had some good and able men about him at Calcutta, the