f the power of the English arms, and has determined to
conquer this rebellious tribe, and give it a lesson in obedience that
will not soon be forgotten.

Now that the outbreak has assumed such a serious form, every one is
trying to discover a reason for the rebellion. Some think that the
Sultan of Turkey is at the root of the matter, and that he has caused
the news of his victory over the Greeks to be spread broadcast
throughout the whole Mohammedan race, thereby creating the impression
that the power of Europe has been shaken, and in this way has given the
natives of Hindustan an idea that it is an excellent opportunity for
them to try to throw off the hated European sovereignty.

Another rumor is that the Ameer of Afghanistan has incited the tribes to
rebel, and that he is secretly giving them his support and assistance.

All the revolting tribes dwell on the borders of Afghanistan, and it is
known for a fact that the Ameer distributed among the native Indian
regiments a book of treasonable character, telling them all about the
Jehad or Holy War. This war, according to the Mohammedan belief, is to
be undertaken by the Moslems against the Christians, and is to result in
the spreading of the Mohammedan faith throughout the world.

The circulation of these books excited the natives very much, and it is
thought had a great deal to do with their present restless and
rebellious spirit.

The Indian Government therefore sent a message to the Ameer protesting
against the further circulation of this book, and accusing him of
exciting the tribes to rebel, and then of allowing his subjects to take
part with them against the English.

The Ameer sent a prompt reply in which he denied that any of his
subjects had been concerned in the recent troubles.

He said that his soldiers should never be used to fight against the
British, and that if any of the tribes under his rule are guilty of
joining in a rebellion against his friend the Queen, it is without his
knowledge or consent. He insisted that none of his people would have
dared to join the rebels openly, for fear of his severe displeasure.

In addition to this letter to the British Government, he has issued an
order to his subjects, forbidding them to join the rebels.

Notwithstanding this, the British officers in India place no reliance on
the Ameer's protestations, and still believe that he is directing the
operations of the troops on the frontier.

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