Page:The Marquess of Dalhousie.djvu/98

90 'In my conversation with you a few days ago, I took occasion to say to you that my modes of conducting public business in the administration with which I am entrusted, and especially with the confidential servants of the Government, are, to speak with perfect openness, without any reserve, and plainly to tell my mind without disguise or mincing of words. In pursuance of that system I now remark on the Proclamation you have proposed. It is objectionable in matter, because, from the terms in which it is worded, it is calculated to convey to those who are engaged in this shameful war, an expectation of much more favourable terms, much more extended immunity from punishment, than I consider myself justified in granting them. It is objectionable in manner, because (unintentionally, no doubt) its whole tone substitutes you personally, as the Resident at Lahore, for the Government which you represent. It is calculated to raise the inference that a new state of things is arising, that the fact of your arrival with a desire to bring peace to the Punjab is likely to affect the warlike measures of the Government, and that you are come as a peacemaker for the Sikhs, as standing between them and the Government. This cannot be... There must be entire identity between the Government and its Agent, whoever he is... I can allow nothing to be said or done which should raise the notion that the policy of the Government of India, or its intentions, depend on your presence as Resident in the Punjab, or the presence of Sir F. Currie instead.'

Sir Henry Lawrence painfully accepted the situation thus defined for him. Lord Dalhousie had a perfect appreciation of Sir Henry's great qualities, an admiring sympathy for his chivalrous