preparations will be at once commenced to steam into harbour, relying on the protection which, we respectfully submit. Government is bound to give us." This quickly drew a reply. Mr. Escombe wrote as follows at 10.45 the following morning: "The Port Captain has instructed that steamers shall be ready to cross the bar inwards at 12 o'clock to-day. The Government needs no reminder of its responsibility for the maintenance of order."
So far, threats of violence had failed to sore away the Indians. A letter sent by Harry Sparks to the Master of the Courland, describing the dangerous temper of Durban, urging the passengers to return to their native land, and promising that the Colony would pay their expenses, had also failed of its design. Mr. Gandhi had interpreted the letter to them all, and had told them what they might expect. He explained also to them that, in his opinion, duty demanded that they should persevere, and they resolved to accept his guidance. A laconic message was returned: "The passengers decline to go back."
"When," said the "Natal Advertiser," on January 16th, "the signal was received that the Courland and Naderi were daring to come into Port, and the
