October 15.
Henry copied the draft to Lord Heytesbury, for the Duke, to whom I sent it with a letter.
Showed the Chairs the draft to Lord Heytesbury on Persia. They were much pleased with it. So was old Jones. Sent it to the Duke. In little doubt his approving it.
Received from the Duke the Persian despatches which I gave to the Chairs.
The Duke had not read them.
Received from him a letter on the subject of half-Batta. He says as an officer he should have thought there was a compromise in 1801. That it should be looked into as a question of economy. That above all things in dealing with an army you must be just.
The Duke thinks the publication of the letter of Lord Combermere's secretary indiscreet and wicked, and is very angry with Lord Combermere.
A letter will be written to the Government on the subject, directing enquiry.
October 19, Sunday.
Read McDonald's despatches from Persia, and sent them to the Duke, with a letter suggesting the heads of a letter to the Envoy.
The Russians have given up one of the two crores due, and allow five years
for paying the other. They mean, therefore, to rule Persia by influence.
However, there is a good Mahometan and Anti-Russian feeling beyond the
Euphrates, and if mischief happens, it is our fault.