[Collection of documents concerning the Indian Mutiny 1857-58.]

£5,000 · Offered by Maggs Bros Ltd

A rare and substantial collection of manuscripts concerning George Seton-Karr (1818-1862) who was the Political Agent, Magistrate, and Collector of the Southern Maratha Confederacy, Bombay Presidency. Importantly, most concern the 1857-58 mutiny. General Seton-Karr “knew that some of the native Chiefs were disaffected, and that few, if any, were really friendly; he knew that he could not expect much aid from without and must rely on his own resources. He never lost heart. He managed by personal influence to keep the Chiefs quiet, and apparently, at all events, on the side of Government; he frustrated the endeavours of the mutinous regiments; and by judicious administration kept the country quiet during the most critical period” (Seton-Karr). The sections are as follows: 1. “Remarks on the Bombay Press March, 1854.” Here Seton-Karr attacks the liberties of the Bombay press that he believes have dangerously influenced public opinion, and specifically has diminished the esteem in which East India Company employees are held by Indians. 2. No. 6 of 1858. “Secret Despatch” From Assistant Political Agent’s Office Jumkhundee, 5th April, 1858 to G.B. Seton-Karr. Seton-Karr reports in considerable detail on “endeavours to acertain the real quantity of warlike store” at the Fort. The document describes the removal from power of the suspected dissident Chief after evidence of his support for potential rebellion follows various deceits, efforts to strengthen his fort, repairs to the canon

• Year: 1858

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