I strongly recommend that a force be sent from this to Kandahar.

Stewart has organized a very complete one consisting of nine regiments of Infantry, three of Cavalry, and three Mountain batteries.

This will suffice to overcome all opposition _en route_; it will have the best possible effect on the country, and will be ready to go anywhere on reaching Kandahar, being fully equipped in all respects.

He proposes sending me in command.
'I am sure that but few Bombay regiments are able to cope with Afghans, and once the Kabul Field Force leaves this country, the chance of sending a thoroughly reliable and well-equipped column will be lost.

The movement of the remainder of the Kabul troops towards India should be simultaneous with the advance of my division towards Kandahar, it being most desirable to limit the area of our responsibilities as soon as possible; at the same time, it is imperative that we should now show our strength throughout Afghanistan.