The commissary has just reported to me, that on examination of the grain he has in store, he finds from the quantity of dirt mixed with it, he has not above four days’ supplies left, at most. Under these circumstances, it becomes absolutely necessary for us to come to a decision as to our future measures, as I do not see how we are to hold out, without food for our Sepoys, beyond that time.
Yours truly,
W. K. E.
THE SURRENDER OF THE FORTS.
[Book VI., chapter I., page 291.]
The subjoined letters are those to which reference is made in the text:
Dec. 16, 1841.
My dear Sir William,
I wish you would write me an official letter, with your opinion as to the necessity of giving up the forts, in furtherance of your negotiations. I think, if absolutely necessary, it must be done. Our situation cannot be made worse, but I think they ought to take them one at a time, beginning with Zoolfikar’s (the grain fort) and the Ricka-Bashee, they sending us supplies. This will be a mutual proof of confidence: the abandoning of these forts if they are not sincere, giving up these cantonments and the possibility of retreat from them. Of course the hostages will be sent, as you think they ought to be: pray name them in your letter, if they have offered, or you proposed any.
I herewith return the two letters from Trevor and Captain Drummond.