Page 82 - Records of Bahrain (2)(ii)_Neat

408 Records of Bahrain

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254. The Government of India jn reporting Colonel Ross’s proceedings
to the Secretary of State (despatch No. 19, dated 14th February 1881)
observed
“This specific project has not again *bccn brought forward, but there is still some
reason to suspect that endeavours arc being made to extend Turkish influence in the island ;
and the Resident in the Persian Gulf no\V thinks it desirable to strengthen the hands of
the Chief by taking from him the agreement a draft of which is enclosed in this despatch.
Under the provisions of this agreement lip Chief binds himself not to have any dealings
with foreign Powers without the consent of the British Government, and not to allow the
establishment of agencies or coal depots in his territory. Colonel Ross is of opinion that
the existence of such an undcrstanding.will lie convenient to the Chief by enabling him,
to decline, without difficulty or offence, any overtures made to him, not only on the part
of the Turks, but on the part of other Powers whose attention is now being turned to the
affairs of the Gulf. Sheikh Esau appear^ to lake the same view of the matter, and he has
signed tlio draft agreement, being however clearly informed by the Resident that it would
have to be submitted for the sanction of the Government of India.
Under the circumstances it appears to be desirable that the agreement should be
accepted and ratified. It will not materially increase or alter the existing responsibilities
of the British Government in regard to Bahrein, and its refusal now might be misunder­
stood. But the Resident will be informed that it is, as a rule, inexpedient that political
officers should enter into such negotiations, howevor guardedly, without special instruc­
tions.
We have the honour to request that we may be favored with an early reply to this
despatch".
254A. The agreement was duly approved by the Secretary of State.