Page:Isvar Chandra Vidyasagar, a story of his life and work.djvu/453

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ISVAR CHANDRA VIDYASAGAR.

last. I have deliberately reconsidered them, since the formation of the present Committee, and see no reason to change the opinions expressed in that paper. It is my firm conviction that the remodelling of the Institution, on the plan suggested, is the only practicable means to better its condition, and to secure the beneficial results anticipated from the establishment of the Institution.

"Great care should be taken in the selection of the teaching staff, in case it be determined to convert the Institution into a Boarding School. They must be well-educated men, experienced in training up children and youth, and free from fashionable vice. The management and control of the Institution should be vested in the Head Master. Under such arrangements, I feel assured that the prejudices entertained against the Institution, not without reason, would be removed and the confidence of the Public restored. But, if, otherwise, the Institution be maintained on its present footing., I shall not be sorry to see it closed at once.

"The after career of some of the young men, brought up in the Institution, reflects discredit on it. If a comparison were instituted between the retired Wards and other young land-lords who were not brought up in the Institution, I believe it will be found that the balance will turn in favor of the latter.

"Removal of the Institution to Krishnaghur, for the present, is by no means safe, on account of the epidemic raging there. The places, to which it can be removed with safety, are either Beerbhoom or Berhampore. But, if the changes suggested be carried out, I would prefer the Institution continuing in Calcutta, in as much as the supervision here would, I think, be more efficient than in the Mofussil. The frequent inspection of the visitors as well as a proximity to the controlling authorities, cannot fail to exercise an amount of beneficial influence on the Institution, which will not easily be available in the Mofussil.