were no high principles, no great ambitions. no consciousness of manhood, among them with which to oppose the ever-encroaching oppression of Colonial laws. They were content to live, and to live as slaves. It was this apathy which appalled him. He saw of what they were capable, and realised to what they were drifting, and determined to resist with all his might the elements, both within his community and without, which were making for degradation. It was like a new adventure in the valley of St. John, with the old curse on the lovely maiden:—
- "And this weird shall overtake thee,
- Sleep until a Knight shall wake thee."
The awakening had at length come; and through the whole Indian community a new thrill of self-consciousness had answered his touch. It was his endeavour now to foster and encourage this national uplift.
Mr. Gandhi advised that his people should send a widely signed petition to the Imperial Colonial Secretary. This was done; ten thousand signatures were very quickly secured, and forwarded to Lord Ripon. The Bill failed to receive the Royal sanction and was withdrawn. It was withdrawn,
