'ANNUAL REPORT OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE BOMBAY PRESIDENCY, FOR THE YEAR 1860-61' [‎21r] (37/164)

POLITICAL.
[Bombay^
SIND.
12. The only event to be recorded in connection with our external rela
tions in Sind is the flight of the Murree hostages from Khelat.
13. Gawan, the Murree Chief, and certain of his followers, had been
detained by the Khan of Khelat, after His Highness’ expedition in 1858, as
hostages for the good behaviour of the tribe. In September of last year they
contrived to effect their escape, and for some weeks afterwards there were
symptoms of renewed disorder amid this class of the Khan’s refractory subjects.
To add to the difficulties of the Brahooee Durbar A public or private audience held by a high-ranking British colonial representative (e.g. Viceroy, Governor-General, or member of the British royal family). , a portion of the Bungulzye
tribe of Brahooees followed the evil example and joined the malcontents. At
the close of the year, however, matters wore a more pacific aspect, the submis
sion of the Murree Chief was accepted, and 40 men of his tribe were admitted
as horsemen into the service of the Ruler of Khelat.
ADEN.
14. During the past year the country in the vicinity of Aden has enjoyed
a measure of prosperity unknown for years. The copious rains which fell
between October and February produced an abundant harvest, and much more
land than usual had been brought under cultivation. This has not, however,
been without its drawbacks. The rain brought much sickness with it, and the
only daughter of Sultan Ali, and the eldest son of the Foudthelee chief fell victims
to it. The neighbouring tribes, moreover, became clamorous for a share in
Sultan Ali’s abundance. One of these, the Houshebi, assumed a decided
attitude of hostility, and for several months constant skirmishes took place
between them and Sultan Ali. At length the Oulakie and Foudthelee tribes,
satisfied with the result of their demands on the Sultan, afforded him armed
assistance, and the Houshebi tribe was fain to sue for peace. The Sultan Obaid
ba Yehia was deposed, and the government conferred on Ali bin Manaa, a
son of the chief who preceded Obaid. Whether this arrangement is likely to be
permanent, remains to be seen.
15. Since then there have been no further troubles. Even while they
lasted the roads leading to Aden were respected, and no inconvenience resulted
to this settlement from the feuds of such near neighbours.
2 po 5
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