Note 260 — Chapter IV

“We are now planning a grand campaign,” he wrote on the 22nd of July, “to restore the Shah to the throne of Caubul—Russia having come down upon us. What exact part I am to play I know not, but if full confidence and hourly consultation be any pledge, I am to be chief. I can plainly tell them that it is aut Cæsar aut nullus, and if I get not what I have a right to, you will soon see me en route to England.” On the 23rd of August he wrote: “Of myself I cannot tell you what is to become. The commander-in-chief wants to go and to take me—but this will not be, and I believe the chief and Macnaghten will be made a commission—Wade and myself political agents under them. I plainly told Lord Auckland that this does not please, and I am disappointed. He replied that I could scarcely be appointed with the chief in equality, and pledged himself to leave me independent quickly, and in the highest appointment. What can I do when he tells me I am a man he cannot spare. It is an honour, not a disgrace to go under Sir Henry; and as for Macnaghten, he is secretary for all India, and goes pro tem. Besides, I am not sorry to see Dost Mahomed ousted by another hand than mine.”—[Private Correspondence of Sir A. Burnes.] These letters were written to his brother. In another letter addressed to Captain Duncan, also on the 23rd of August, Burnes wrote: “Of my own destinies, even, I cannot as yet give an account. I go as a Political Agent with the Shah, but whether as the Political Agent remains to be seen. I find I bask in favour, but Sir Henry Fane is to go, and he must be the Agent; but it is even hinted that they will place a civilian with him, and employ me in advance. Be it so. I succeed to the permanent employ after all is over.... The chief wishes to go, and to take me with him, and I am highly obliged for his appreciation.”—[Private Correspondence of Sir A. Burnes: MS.]