I am of opinion, however, that by a deputation can the object be alone accomplished. There happens to be an individual, peculiarly qualified for this undertaking, Mr. Adam. This gentleman came to India seventeen years ago as a Missionary, and has latterly been the Editor of the India Gazette. With considerable ability he possesses great industry and a high character for integrity. His knowledge of the languages, and his habits of intercourse with the Natives, give him peculiar advantages for such an enquiry. The paper which he drew up at my request will better show than anything I can say the correct views with which he is disposed to undertake such a commission, and the remuneration he proposes appears within reasonable limits. His report upon any one zillah or section of the territory would enable the Government at once to determine whether the task was well executed, and the information obtained worth the charge incurred for it. I should think that two or perhaps three years would more than complete the enquiry, because, the net-work of the institutions of one or more zillahs being ascertained, it is probable that there would be found so much similarity in the general outline as not to make necessary a particular enquiry into the details of every zillah, and the Commissioner, being always in communication with the local Officers, need after a period confine his examination to those institutions which might be remarkable for some peculiar distinction.
If the Council agree in this recommendation, I would propose that Mr. W. Adam be selected for this duty, with a consolidated allowance of Rupees 1,000 for all expenses, with the exception of travelling charges, for which he should make a separate bill upon honor.
I concur entirely in the above proposition.
A. ROSS.
W. MORISON.
