capital. This he declined to attempt, representing to head-quarters that the whole of his camp-equipage had been destroyed; that the wounded and sick had increased to upwards of three hundred; that there was no longer a single depôt of provisions on the route, and that the carriage of the force was not sufficient to bring on one day's rations with it. "I have, at the same time," said the gallant veteran, "positive information that the whole country is in arms, and ready to oppose us in the defiles between this city and Cabul, while my ammunition is insufficient for more than two such contests as I should assuredly have to sustain for six days at least. With my present means I could not force the passes of either Jugduluk or Khoord Cabul; and even if the débris of my brigade did reach Cabul, I am given to understand that I should find the troops now garrisoning it without the means of subsistence. Under these circumstances, a regard for the honour and interest of our Government compels me to adhere to my plan, already formed, of putting this place into a state of defence, and holding it, if possible, until the Cabul force falls back upon me, or succours arrive from Peshawur or India."[1].
- ↑ Letter from Sir Robert Sale to Captain Paton, 15th of November, 1841
