Page:MKGandhi patriot.djvu/120

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a servile condition.

But Mr. Gandhi is a practical dreamer. As his life-work took shape, he realised that his plans could only be materialised by the creation of some medium of constant intercourse with Indians throughout the South African Colonies, and after mature thought "Indian Opinion" was launched.

A printing-plant was already at work in Durban, under the direction of Mr. Madanjit, a Bombay schoolmaster. In view of possible developments, Mr. Gandhi had contributed a large proportion of its cost. This printing-plant was now available. Mr. M. H. Nazar at once volunteered to act as unpaid Editor. He was a man of culture, an undergraduate of Bombay University, a trained journalist, and one whose character was tried. His death, two years later, was a profound loss to the community. Mr. Nazar's offer was accepted, and on the understanding that Mr. Gandhi should contribute certain funds, and write constantly for the English columns, the first number was issued.

The enterprise was necessary, but it proved to be very costly. At first, being a novelty to the community, its value was not realised. The majority of the Indians were not inclined towards literature, and