Page:The Aristocracy of Southern India.djvu/190

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The Aristocracy of Southern India.

capital of his world-wide dominions, on which, you all know, the Sun never sets, and further to express our sentiments of congratulation on that happy event, and of our loyalty and devotion to the British Crown of unrivalled splendour and glory.

"It is no exaggeration to say that we (Indians) are deeply indebted to the British Raj for the innumerable benefits we have been enjoying under its suzerainty, such as gigantic irrigation and water supply projects, noblest charities in the establishment of Hospitals and Chattrams, rapid advance in Education, Civilisation, Religious liberty, Art, Science, Literature, Trade and Manufacture, and various other privileges never before chronicled in the pages of the Indian History, and I do not think we can possibly repay the debt except by continuing to be ever most grateful and loyal to the Throne.

"I really wish I were, at this moment, present in London among the party of Indian visitors, there, partaking of the loyal functions they perform, and the grand and gorgeous spectacle they enjoy this day. As it is, I could but make a feeble attempt at what I thought the only best way of commemorating the event, by planting trees and topes, sinking wells, feeding and clothing the poor, and conducting a procession of the Emperor's portrait round the streets of this town and holding a Durbar like this, here. So far, I am glad to say, my attempt has been a perfect success, and I must not omit to thank all of my relations, friends, officers, and ryots, as my success is due mainly to their hearty co-operation and assistance throughout, and we all see, this afternoon, the Heaven has also accorded its sanction to our arrangements by