and to present something definite and tangible to Government and the public, either to approve or disapprove, to adopt, to alter, or to reject. I am far from supposing that the plan is liable to no objections, will be attended with no difficulties, and will require no modifications.
The grand and primary objection is one that would apply to all projects whatsoever of a similar tendency, viz., the dangerous consequence to our power in this country from imparting instruction to the natives. This objection cannot be better answered than in the words of Sir Charles Metcalfe contained in his report on the revenue of the territory of Delhi, dated 4th September 1815. After describing and recommending a particular system of revenue settlements, which would have the effect of improving the condition of the village zemindars and conferring benefits on them not enjoyed by the cultivators living under former or present native Governments, he adds—“It is, perhaps, impossible to foresee all the remote effects of such a system, and there may be those who would argue that it is injudicious to establish such a system which, by exciting a free and independent character, may possibly lead, at a future period, to dangerous consequences. There does not appear to be sufficient reason to apprehend any evil consequences, even at a remote period, from the introduction of this system. It rather seems that the establishment of such advantages for the bulk of our subjects ought to attach them to the Government which confers the benefit. But even supposing the remote possibility of the evil consequences which may be apprehended, that would not be a sufficient reason for withholding any advantages from our subjects. Similar objections have been urged against our attempting to promote the education of our native subjects, but how unworthy it would be of a liberal Government to give weight to such objections! The world is governed by an irresistible power which giveth and taketh away dominion, and vain would be the impotent prudence of man against the operations of its Almighty influence. All that rulers can do is to merit dominion by promoting the happiness of those under them. If we perform our duty in this respect, the gratitude of India, and the admiration of the world, will accompany our name through all ages, whatever may be the revolutions of futurity; but if we withhold blessings from our subjects, from a selfish apprehension of possible danger at a remote period, we shall not deserve to keep our dominion, we shall merit that reverse which time has possibly in store for us, and shall fall with the mingled, hatred, and contempt, hisses and execrations of mankind. These remarks are offered in reply to objections which may be, and have been, urged against our conferring on our Indian subjects the blessings of independence and education. My own opinion is that the more blessings we confer on them, the better hold we shall have on their affections, and in consequence the greater strength and duration to our empire. It
