IOR/L/PS/7/47 ff.849-858

Description

Scope and content : Despatch from the Government of India, Foreign Department (Secret/Frontier) to the Secretary of State for India, dated Simla 9 July 1886, forwarding telegraphic correspondence between the Government of India and Sir West Ridgeway, relating to the movement of the Afghan Boundary Commission.Ridgeway reports that supplies are becoming exhausted and asks if there is any chance of the mission reaching India during the next four months. on 25 June he telegraphs that the Amir has issued orders prohibiting the survey of Badakhshan by British officers unless the Russian Commissioner proceeds there also. On 6 July the Viceroy telegraphs London that if another winter in Afghanistan is contemplated, new equipment and supplies will be required urgently. On 8 July, telegram to Ridgeway announces that 'Viceroy regrets losing chance of exploring north-east frontier, but decides to abandon the scheme which cannot now be fully carried out.'