ABSTRACT
The tribal shaikhs of Diwiiniya and of the Hilla Division in their declarations approved of continued British control. The former thanked the British Government for its desire to give them an Amir which they agreed was in accordance with common sense and the dictates of their religion which enjoined them to appoint an Imiim. They considered it premature, however, not only because of their own lack of experience in affairs, but also because no man seemed suitable for the office. 5 The tribal shaikhs around Karbala, in which city the acute hostility of the Mujtahids made the suspension of inquiries desirable in accordance with the Acting Civil Commissioner's instructions, also declared for British administration and for Sir Percy COx. 6 From Kilt al-'Amara, Musaiyib and Khanaqin
came similar pronouncements l of approval of British rule and requests for British officers.
