The news from the Indian frontier is both good and
bad. The Amir has at last issued a warning to his subjects against invading territory under British control; but on the other band, the Mohmands have refused to send in their submission, and an expedition into their territory is therefore necessary. The Amir's action was a response to the recent British protest. There is little doubt now that the Amir has had to face many difficulties, chiefly owing to the intrigues of his brother, who is vehemently anti-British. His Proclamation threatens those Afghans who preach a jehad with having their tongues pulled out, and those who cross the Kabul River with having their feet cut off. As for the Mohmands, those nearest British influence seem disinclined for more fighting, but the remoter sections of the tribe, according to the Times corre- spondent at Shabkadr, have sent an insulting message. Sir James Willcocks's expeditionary force consists of three brigades. The Mohmands, we suspect, will rely more on the difficulties offered to an invading force by their country than on their own fighting qualities, which have never been remarkable.
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