The Ameer Calls for British Action
The ameer of Afghanistan has grown tired of Britain’s “aloofness and reserve” as to Russia’s designs on Herat, and in a published autograph letter sounds to Britain the following rallying note:— Now, when Afghanistan is overwhelmed on all sides, the British government does not seem to take any interest, but enjoys the pride of aloofness and reserve. Whenever I have suggested a check to Russian aggression, I have had no response from the government of India, except the suggestion that Afghanistan might consent to the construction of railways and telegraphs. This is impossible, as the Afghans consider that such a step would mean their ruin. Notwithstanding all these troubles, I have proved for the last twenty-one years the firm ally of Great Britain. But now, at the last moment, I must inform my powerful ally, the government of India, that the present is the time for deeds and not for talk.