and equipped forces to fight side by side with the British regiments in case of need.*[1]
The total cost of the Military Establishment was in 1321 Fasli (1912 A.D.), Rs. 52,34.272; and almost half of this money went to pay for the irregular troops, which are now out-of-date and almost useless.
The Regular Forces have several regimental bands, and the most important of them — H. H. the Nizam's band — is composed of string as well as wind instruments, and is conducted by an experienced bandmaster.
The hospitals and dispensaries for the troops I did not see, but I was told that an up-to-date military hospital "has been promised."
The pay of the troops varies from eight to fifteen rupees a month for the Regular Forces and the Imperial Service. Troops can add three rupees a month to their pay by good conduct. Most of the troops are stationed in or near the capital, but some are in the chief towns in the districts. The
- ↑ * Since this was written the army of H. H. the Nizam has been largely drawn upon for the Expeditionary Forces sent from India to the seat of war in 1914. We may feel sure that the Hyderabad troops will make history in Europe and return home covered with honour and glory, or fall like heroes on the battlefield.
