CHAPTER XLII.

Lord Lytton becomes Viceroy --Difficulties with Sher Ali --Imperial assemblage at Delhi --Reception of the Ruling Chiefs --Queen proclaimed Empress of India --Political importance of the assemblage --Sher Ali proclaims a 'Jahad' --A journey under difficulties

Object of the first Afghan war --Excitement caused by Russia's advances

Effect of the Berlin Treaty at Kabul --Sher Ali decides against England --A meeting of portentous moment --Preparations for war--Letter from Sher Ali

Shortcomings of my column --Attitude of the Border tribes