Page:Viscount Hardinge and the Advance of the British Dominions into the Punjab.djvu/83

Rh regiments from Meerut were ordered to march by the Commander-in-Chief, with the exception of the 9th Lancers. The regiments there were only ordered to hold themselves in readiness. The Governor-General wrote to the Commander-in-Chief: 'I concur in moving up the 4th and 8th Irregular Cavalry with the wing of the Shaikháwati Brigade. With regard to H.M.'s 9th Lancers and the Sirmur Battalion, I have forwarded the Adjutant-General's letter postponing their march; agreeing with you, however, in the orders at the time they were issued. The force at and in front of Ambála must be strong enough to move on Firozpur without waiting for the force at Meerut. My own impression remains unaltered. When I hear of a single piece of artillery having crossed the Sutlej, I shall consider the movement to be made in earnest.' The Commander-in-Chief concurred and observed: 'I am still of opinion that they never will be beaten this side of the river, except as plunderers.'

It is unnecessary to make further observations on these extracts. They prove that the Governor-General countermanded no orders of the Commander-in-Chief, except as regards the 9th Lancers; and they also show that the Commander-in-Chief himself did not expect the Sikh invasion, and considered that there was no necessity for moving up the Meerut force.

The Governor-General arrived at Ambála on the 3rd December, 1845. On the 6th, Sir J. Littler asked for another European regiment at Firozpur. The Governor-General approved, and recorded his opinion