File 2182/1913 Pt 4 'Persian Gulf: Policy towards Bin Saud (Capt. Shakespear's Mission)' [‎47v] (91/426)

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(9) Substitution of words "in all circumstances and in all places”.
This is of course impossible of acceptation. Some other formula will have to
be found by discussion with Bin Saud—something, I think, not so one-sided
as our version, or so comprehensive as his.
Article JV —(10) Omission of words " For ever ”, Of no consequence.
(11) Omission of word "sell”. Probably clerical error, should be re
inserted.
(12) “ Lease ” as separate from mortgage was left out in error in our
version and is omitted in his. Might be considered included in “ otherwise
dispose of
(13) Word “ Grant ” omitted—as same Arabic word is used in preceding
line for “ dispose of ”. No objection.
(14) Words “ where his interests require ”. Somewhat bald, but he no
doubt only means “ where his interests are not injured thereby ” and could be
got to accept that alternative which seems unobjectionable.
(15) “ Through his countries ” used instead of " through his territories or
limits No objection.
Article V —^16) I suppose he thinks that his undertaking "to keep the
roads leading to the Holy Places ” includes the protection of pilgrims on the
way there, so he only speaks of their "return”, but it should be return
" from ” and not “ to ”. No doubt a clerical error.
Article VI —(17) "Other tribes and Chiefs” omitted. Might go in
again unless he has any valid argument to put forward for its omission.
Article VII —(18) Omits "As soon as can be conveniently arranged”.
Words can be dispensed with.
(19) Word "other” omitted. Probably clerical error. No consequence.
P. Z. Cox.
26lh June 1915,
Translation of a letter from the British Resident in the Persian Gulf The historical term used to describe the body of water between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran. to Abdul Aziz bin Abdur
Rahman bin Faisal as-Saud, dated the 26th June 1915.
After complim°nts ,—Your valued letters of the 9th Jamadi I 1333 duly
reached me, but I have been absent with the troops first at Ahwaz and then
at Amara and your letters arrived during my absence. There has consequent
ly been some delay in dealing with them and sending you a reply, for which
you will excuse me. But I asked Abdul Latif bin Mandil to let you know the
above and give you the new r s and he tells me be did so.
The letter to llis Excellency the Viceroy I have sent to its destination.
As regards the Treaty, I have understood what you wrote, explaining that
you had made certain modifications in the text. I have not the least doubt
that we shall succeed in adjusting the wording of the articles into a form which
will suit both parties and safeguard the interests of yourself and us; but as the
wording W’as different to what the Government had approved previously,
it has been necessary for me to refer it to them. But you will now have
understood from reading the draft Treaty in question as to what extent the
British Government is ready to strengthen its relations with you, and you will,
I am sure, be able to rest tranquil pending the final conclusion of the document.
I think myself that the matter will be finished more easily at a personal
meeting between us. At present, according to information which reaches me.
Your Honour is on the way to, or about to proceed to, Hassa. I also am leaving
Basrah for some days in the direction of Nasiriyeh which it is now our intention
to occupy and administer the government there. On my return from there,
I will communicate with you, and I hope you will find it possible to come
to Ujair, so that we can have a meeting there.
This is what had to be stated and may you remain preserved and salaams.
F. k r. Dept. Frett—No. 1220-8.7-15-12.