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174
JAMES THOMASON

principally supplied.' These words are noteworthy, as showing a tentative method and gentle guidance in a man so energetic in action and so firm in resolution as he.

He expressed himself similarly in a private letter thus: —

'I want to do something in a manner consonant with Native institutions and ideas, and also to induce the people to work with me, and exert themselves in the cause.'

Besides education, which would elevate the rural people morally, he attended to all kind of physical improvement. His care for every imaginable work of public utility was exerted without any respite.

In respect to road-making, as his Provinces lay far inland, he was ever sketching new lines to connect them with neighbouring territories in all directions, and displayed ingenuity in providing resources whereby some beginning, at least, might be made. The Grand Trunk Road, from Calcutta towards the North-West frontier, traversed two-thirds of his Provinces; though partly made and bridged, it had to be macadamized, and in that respect he was of great assistance. But further he would ensure the comfort and security of this channel of communication, this artery of commerce as he loved to call it. So he caused the watch and ward to be strengthened all along the line, police-stations to be placed at frequent intervals, caravanserais and rest-houses to be erected at suitable stages, with store-houses for fuel and other supplies, for the accommodation of travellers. The