Be it known to you that in these days the relations between the British Government and ours with regard to your kingdom require deep consideration.  As I am unable to communicate my opinion verbally to you, I have deputed my agent, Major-General Stolietoff.  This gentleman is a near friend of mine, and performed excellent services in the Russo-Turkish war, by which he earned favour of the Emperor.  The Emperor has always had a regard for him.  He will inform you of all that is hidden in my mind.  I hope you will pay great attention to what he says, and believe him as you would myself, and, after due consideration, you will give him your reply.  Meanwhile, be it known to you that your union and friendship with the Russian Government will be beneficial to the latter, and still more so to you.  The advantages of a close alliance with the Russian Government will be permanently evident.

    This friendly letter is written by the Governor-General of
    Turkestan and Adjutant-General to the Emperor, Von Kauffmann,
    Tashkent, Jamadial Akbar, 1295 ( = June, 1878).

To the AMIR of the whole of Afghanistan, SHER ALI KHAN.

(After compliments.) Be it known to you that our relations with the British Government are of great importance to Afghanistan and its dependencies.  As I am unable to see you, I have deputed my trustworthy (official) General Stolietoff to you.  The General is an old friend of mine, and during the late Russo-Turkish war earned the favour of the Emperor by his spirit and bravery.  He has become well known to the Emperor.  This trustworthy person will communicate to you what he thinks best.  I hope you will pay attention to what he says, and repose as much confidence in his words as if they were my own; and that you will give your answer in this matter through him.  In the meantime, be it known to you that if a friendly treaty will be of benefit to us, it will be of far greater benefit to yourself.

GENERAL STOLIETOFF sent the following letter, on his return to Tashkent from Kabul, to the address of the Foreign Minister, WAZIR SHAH MAHOMED KHAN, dated 23rd of the holy month of Ramazan, 1295 ( = 21st September, 1878).

Thank God, I reached Tashkent safely, and at an auspicious moment paid my respects to the Viceroy (Yaroni Padishah means ’half king’).  I am trying day and night to gain our objects, and hope I shall be successful.  I am starting to see the Emperor to-day, in order to inform His Majesty personally of our affairs.  If God pleases, everything that is necessary will be done and affirmed. I hope that those who want to enter the gate of Kabul from the east will see that the door is closed; then, please God, they will tremble. I hope you will give my respects to His Highness the Amir.  May God make his life long and increase his wealth!  May you remain in good health, and know that the protection of God will arrange our affairs!

    (Signed) GENERAL STOLIETOFF.