nd condition of our
colonies, and the relations which we bore to foreign powers. This was
less the case in 1846 and 1847 than in most other periods, because the
failure of the harvests, the consequent overwhelming distress through
out the British Isles, and the disaffection in Ireland, demanded the
most earnest attention of parliament and the ministry.

_India_.--The state of India, throughout this year, was one of
prosperity and peace. The Punjaub, however, created some disquietude,
and there were border disturbances within the acquired territory of
Scinde.

It will be recollected that in the last chapter the appointment of a
council of regency at Lahore was recorded. This body excited the ranee's
jealousy, whose disposition for intrigue was once more evoked; she
endeavoured to neutralise the action of the council. Representations
concerning this state of things were made to the governorgeneral, who
signified his approbation of the policy proposed by the council for
her exile from the capital. She was accordingly seized, and sent under
escort to a distance, where she' was detained, and Lahore and the
Punjaub were exempt from troubles throughout the year.

In Scinde the border tribes were restless, and made frequent predatory
incursions upon the British territory. On one occasion, a body of seven
hunded infantry and a troop of horse, headed by several chiefs, made
a foray. Lieutenant Merewether, of "the Scinde Irregular Horse," was
sent, at the head of about one hundred and thirty men, to observe, and,
if possible, disperse them. This gallant young officer came up with the
marauders in a locality unfavourable for immediate action; they were
moving in a direction which would have afforded them the protection
of some sand hills and jungle. Mr. Merewether rode along their front
without charging them, in order to gain their flank, and compel them to
keep the open plain, in a situation 'more favourable for the action
of cavalry. They did not understand this manouvre, and supposed it to
signify that the lieutenant did not deem it prudent to assail them.
Encouraged by this idea they attacked him, coming on with great
exultation. This gave the skilful and intrepid young officer the
advantage he desired; he wheeled to the left, formed his men in
an instant, charged, and cut up the enemy fearfully. The infantry
endeavoured to retreat; such of the horsemen as were left galloped away.
'Mr. Merewether allowed their infantry no op