Page:Speeches And Writings MKGandhi.djvu/171

A TRUOE WITH THE GOVERNMENT 81 The Minister, I observe, appreciates these scru- ples, and regards them as honourable, but is unable to alter his decision. As, however, by granting me the recent interviews, he has been pleased to accept the principle ot consultation, it enables me to advise my countrymen not to hamper the labours of the Commis- sion by any active propaganda, and not to render the position of the Government difficult by reviving passive resistance, pending the result of the Commission and the introduction of legislation during the forthcoming session· If I am right in my interpretation of the Govern- ment’s attitude on the principle of consultationfit would be further possible for ue to assist Sir Benjamin Robert- son, whom the Viceroy, with gracious forethought, has deputed to give evidence before the Commission. A word is here inecessary on the question of allega- tions as to ill-treatment during the progress of the Indian strike in Natal, For the reasons above stated, the avenue of proving them through the Commission is closed to us. I am personally unwilling to challenge libel proceedings by publishing the authentic evidence in our possession, and would far rather refrain altogether from raking up old sores. I beg to assure the Minister that, as passive resistors, we endeavour to avoid, as far as possible, any resentment of personal wrongs. But in order that our silence may not be mistaken, may I ask the Minister to recognise our motive and reciprocate by not leading evidence of a negative character before the Commission on the allegations in question. Suspension of passive resistance, moreover, carries with it a prayer for the release of the passive resistance prisoners now undergoing imprisonment, either in the e