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186 was to retain as large a number of loyal natives as could be safely done without warranting any grave anxiety in the minds of the English; both because they would help in the military defence, and also because they could most suitably perform many duties which the Europeans of the force would find most trying, if they were called on to undertake them. With this view he continued to keep at Lucknow most of the 13th N.I., separated off all the Sikhs and kept them in distinct companies or detachments, and summoned in from the districts selected Sepoy pensioners, sufficient in numbers to form two companies, partly infantry and partly golundázís (gunners).

The grief caused to Sir Henry by the losses and hardships of friends in the course of these mutinies, added to his ceaseless work and anxiety, caused him to break down on June 9, and in consequence to entrust the conduct of the administration temporarily to a council, with Mr. Gubbins at its head. On this, having secured a majority of the votes in the council, Mr. Gubbins forthwith arranged, in opposition to Sir Henry's fundamental policy, to send off the Sepoys to their homes on leave; but while this measure was being carried out, Sir Henry having learnt of it, insisted, in spite of his illness, on resuming charge, upset the order, and retained the Sepoys. On the same day, Major Gall, who had volunteered, left with despatches for Allahábád, escorted by some of his own regiment; but he never reached his destination, having been murdered on his way at Roy Bareilly. Next day