text:  The last atonement now in our power to make both to the people and the ruler whom we have so deeply injured as well as the best course for our own interests would be at once to release Dost Mohammed from the unmerited and ignominious confinement to which he has been subjected in Hindostan and to send him back in honour to Cabul; where his own ancient partisans as well as those of his son would quickly rally round him; and where his presence and accustomed authority might have some effect in restraining the crowd of fierce chiefs who will be ready to tear each other to pieces as soon as they are released from the presence of the _Feringhis_