Page:The Maharaja of Cashmere.djvu/29

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page needs to be proofread.

[ 9 ]

One of the strongest reasons why the Native States are so fondly loved by the people is that these states still afford them careers which are shut out, and supply opportunities for the development of their administrative talents which are not available, within the pale of British jurisdiction. It is well known that circumstances contribute very largely to make up a man, and that these circumstances are in British India somewhat adverse to the growth and expansion of governing capacities among the native population. The peculiar nature of the relationship which the rulers and the ruled bear to each other in this country render it improbable that, at least for some time to come, the former will be in a position to entrust the more capable among the latter with responsible and independent administrative charges. We have had men of ability in the Subordinate Executive Service, but they are creatures of a stereotyped system and are so completely fettered by what is technically