Item 2 - Telegram from Lord Chelmsford to Edwin Montagu

Has endeavoured to keep Montagu informed of the effects of the Congress in his official telegrams. There were three outstanding features this year: (1) the feeling with regard to the amnesty and the Punjab; (2) the response to reforms; and (3) the Hindu-Mohammedan entente. [1] Resolutions of gratitude to the King Emperor were passed and many released detenues were present, but they were expressing not gratitude but bitterness and a determination to continue agitation. Memories of the disturbances have been kept alive by Satyapal and Kitchlew, and it may also have been thought bad political strategy to show gratitude for release. The terms of the amnesty are increasingly appreciated by the sober-minded, but not by the more violent party or the ‘ignorant masses’. [2] With regard to reforms, Montagu is already acquainted with the main trend of opinion. The extremists are preparing for a vigorous election campaign. [3] The Hindu-Mohammedan alliance is mainly one of political leaders. The Mohammedans hope thereby to reinforce their position on the Khilafat question and the terms of peace with Turkey, the Hindus to present an appearance of national unanimity. The extreme opinions of the Ali brothers are not shared by educated Mohammedans, but they appeal to the ‘religious fanaticism of the ignorant masses’.

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