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efforts made on tho part of tho local authorities to guard tho riycr. But this
could ho dono only by subsidising tho Sheikh of Moliammorah, which Persia
could hardly bo expected to do.
312. Tho quostion then is whether tho British Government should not
undertake tho charge. Sir A. Hardingo is in favour of our incurring the charge,
since tho effect of such a step would be to render the Sheikh to some extent our
subsidized dependent and to strengthen the hold which our assurances have
already given us over him (Sir A. Hordingc to Lord Lansdownc, dated 1st
July 1901).
313. But it appears, from what Lieutenant Lorimer has to say on tho
point, that it is not merely pecuniary com­
Lieutenant Lorimer to Major Cox, No. 17, dated
21it Judo 1901. pensation which tho Sheikh expects from
us. Possibily he doos not care for pecuniary
compensation, as long as wo can give him something more tangible, that is our
protection against tho constant encroachments of Persia on his ancient privileges
as a foudal chieftain. Wo may quote Lieutenant Lorimer to explain what
appear to him the Sheikh’s feolings on this matter :—
u So Ion" as the Sheikh is satisfied, thcro is no argument in favour of the British Govern­
ment’s increasing the measure of its favours or of actual or moral obligations which may at
auy moment become inconvenient. But it is precisely as to tho Sheikh’s attitude of mind
towards this mattor that I feel anxioty. Personally I behove that lie is not satisfied that all
the services which he has rendered and is rendering are to bo attributed to a desire to compel,
by deserving it, the more assured and iutimale support of the British Government, llo is dis­
posed now to count up his services and to ask himself what they have gained him.
What equivalent has he gained for the trouble and expense incurred in practically extin­
guishing piracy on the Shat ol-Arab; what for discontinuing some eight years ago his own trade
steam-boats on the Karuu in deference to Messrs. Lynch Brothers ? What ho is now to obtain
for his personal inconvenience and the expenditure of 100 tomans a day for the protection of
our trade in Porsian Arabistan ? I state the questions as I conceive he puts them to himself.
The list might be lengthened by numerous small items.
For his present services ho will not receive a penny from the Porsian Government, and it
was only after some hesitation that he undertook tho work determined, I believe, by tho
counsels of liaji Rais, and the consideration that it would form a real claim on our gratitude
and offered hopes of a development of our friendship which was worth a largo price. He obscure­
ly hinted to me however that ho would not be averse to tho British Government inducing
the Persian Government to refund his present expenses.
The answer which his mind makes to its own questions arc not, I think, favourable. Re­
peated disappointment may lead him to find that he can stand on his own legs, or induce him
to throw himself into the arms of auy new comer who will mako more specious promises than
ourselves.
Evidences of Russian intcrost in South Persia and Arabistan have not been wanting this
year ; and the Sheikh has received their special attention. The latest indication is that the
Agency for the Russian line of steamers has been transferred from M. ter.Meulen, Russian
Consular Agent, to liaji Rais's son, to liaji Rais, and it is liaji Rais who furnishes the
Sheikh with his policy.
It is unfortunate that on the only occasion, I believe, on which the Sheikh has appealed
for our aid—in tho case of the Mohammcrah Customs—it was impossible for us to accord it.
He makes no secret of his conviction that we deserted him on this single occasion of
need.
However much he protosts his reliance on, and love for us, he doos not omit to hint that
he hopes for more from us. The position becomes serious the moment that any doubt is
admitted as to the impossibility of his separating himself from us.
10. While on general grounds I am satisfied that' the protection of the Ahwaz-Shuster
route, the object at present in view can only be satisfactorily accomplished through him, I
will not conceal that I regard the fact with favour in view of its bringing us into closer associa­
tion with the Sheikh, creating a relation in which lie will be obliged to lake our counsel and
we shall be obliged to appeal openly in his support.
That we arc prepared to take bis part in any right cause is, I trust, not open to doubt;
but that this readiness should be more clearly ascertained even in ono small matter cannot, I
think, but have a beneficial effect on our relations with him and his with the Persian Govern­
ment."