,
was fired at by one William Hamilton, the pistol being charged
only with powder. He was tried under the Act of 1842, and
sentenced to seven years' transportation.]

[Footnote 12: Princess Helena (now Princess Christian), born
25th May 1846.]

[Pageheading: ANNEXATION OF THE PUNJAB]

_Queen Victoria to Lord John Russell._

OSBORNE, _26th May 1849._

The Queen has to say, in answer to Lord John Russell's communication
respecting India, that she quite approves the annexation of the
Punjab, and is pleased to find that the Government concur in this
view. The elevation of Lord Dalhousie to a Marquisate is well
deserved, and almost the only thing that can be offered him as a
reward for his services; but considering his want of fortune, the
Queen thinks that it should be ascertained in the first instance
whether the increase of rank will be convenient to him. Lord Gough's
elevation to the dignity of Viscount has the Queen's sanction.

[Pageheading: FOREIGN OFFICE BUSINESS]

_Lord John Russell to the Prince Albert._

CHESHAM PLACE, _19th June 1849._

SIR,--I have spoken to Lord Palmerston respecting the draft to Mr
Buchanan.[13]

It appears that he converted it into a private letter, as I suggested,
but he thought fit to place it on record, as it contained information
derived from authentic sources, and of importance.

It appears the drafts are still sent to the Queen at the same time as
to me, so that my remarks or corrections, or even the cancelling of
a despatch, as not infrequently happens, may take effect after the
Queen's pleasure has been taken.

This appears to me an inconvenient course.

Lord Palmerston alleges that as 28,000 despatches were received and
sent last year, much expedition is required; but he professes himself
ready to send the despatches to me in the first instance, if the Queen
should desire it.

It appears to me that all our despatches ought to be thoroughly
considered, but that Her Majesty should give every facility to the
transaction of business by attending to the drafts as soon as possible
after their arrival.

I would suggest therefore that the drafts should have my concurrence
before they are submitted to the Queen, and in case of any material
change, that I should write to apprise Her Majesty of my views, and,
if necessary, submit my reasons, I have the honour to be, your Royal
Highness's most obedient Servant,

J. RUSSELL.

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