before I take a step in a measure of so much importance which I might not be able to retrace, and upon which instructions are now to be expected within a fortnight from England. A better sight into the state of political feeling in Afghánistán, or events passing on the side of Persia, may make further consideration most desirable.'
Three days later, on June 10, Lord Auckland wrote to Mr. Macnaghten: —
'You must not, however, be surprised that I yet see hazards and difficulties upon which my mind must hesitate, and of which we may take different measure. ... When once the determination is made I shall be with you for promptitude of action, and perhaps even for greater promptitude of action than you may be.'
About the same time he writes to Sir John Hobhouse that as to the affairs of the Punjab, Afghánistán, and Persia, owing to want of information as to the progress of affairs in Europe, he has never felt any confidence in himself, and has known himself to be liable to error at every step. He has been playing in the dark, and with his hands tied, a game requiring a clear-sighted vigour. For some time he has not heard from McNeill, and can only conjecture by what counter engagements made with Persia, engagements on his side of Afghánistán may be embarrassed, or by what new dangers too passive delay may be attended.
'The obscure responsibility of the Government here in regard to Persia and European politics' is the key-
