In rear of the old commissariat godown the rebels have prepared a platform to-day, about twelve feet by four. Hay says they were looking at them all day from the Bala Hissar; that they began it at about one P.M., and seemed to have finished it before dark, and left it then; and that they seemed to be trying it, by walking on it, before they went away; it seemed to be a contrivance for crossing our ditch. The enemy appeared more numerous to-day than for some days past.
Your's truly,
Wm. Thain.
(Signed)
10th Dec. 8½ P.M.
No. V.
My dear Sturt,
Have we the means, by taking the beams of some building, of making a bridge over the canal? and how long would it take?
The guns, I fear, cannot cross otherwise, or the carriages for the bridge over the river.
The scarping the bank of the canal would render it practicable for the cavalry and baggage, and save some time. How long will it take to complete the opening for the egress of the troops? Pray attend to all this. I have told Pottinger to ask for a guard to protect our party; but the bridge might be prepared directly, ready to lay down the morning we go. Send for the Sappers, and see what you can do as to this. How many bullocks will be required to draw the carriages to the river? This we must get assistance to do just before we march.
Your's,
W. K. E.