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EX-KING OF AFGHANISTAN

rere not l&id down, and though in the past the eldest
ons of the Amir were usually strong enough to press
heir claims to rule, at other times the man who was
ounted " most suitable " stepped into the position.

Inayatullah did not persist long in his claim. It
teeded only slight persuasion from Nasrullah to frighten
dm into joining forces and supporting his uncle's claim
igainst that of Amanullah. Perhaps he feared his
rounger brother too much to be in the position of ruler.
He knew that Amanullah would always be a thorn in
lis flesh, and a slightly contemptuous observer of him
is Amir. Far better, therefore, to help Nasrullah into
bhe position, and live thereafter in the sunshine of his
favours, without responsibility and without danger.

Amanullah's answer to this was brief and to the
point. From Kabul he sent a sneering message dowa
to the self-elected Amir.

It was signed : " Amanullah, Amir of Afghanistan/*

In pithy terms it reminded Nasrullah and Inayatullah
of the actual position. " The new Amir, Amanullah,'*
it suggested, " has taken over control of the Army. He
has been received with every demonstration of affection
and popularity. He has seized the Treasury, He has
in his possession the gold vaults and the Palace. He
has uttered a Proclamation throughout the Northern
Territory, and he has noted with gratification that his
succession is according to the wishes of the people.'*

There was no reply* Nasrullah knew that he spoke
with words of power. The Army was solid in Amanullah's
support. He was feared as much as he was admired.
And rather than tempt Providence, Nasrullah allowed
his claim to drop.

The trick had been done. Without the letting of
blood, Amanullah had realised his ambition. It had
been sooner than he had expected, and it had been

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