dissipated; in the state of India, were we to be feeble our rule would be a dream, and a very short one[1].'
The scheme for producing the pacification of India was not his conception; but having approved of its merit, he adopted it as his own, and, more fortunate than his great predecessor, he was able to take large and comprehensive measures to bring it to a successful conclusion. Essentially a man of action, his resolute will bore down all opposition to his well-matured plans. The breadth of his policy, the vigour of his intellect, the sagacity of his measures, and the skill of his operations, surprised his enemies, overcame their resistance, reconciled them to his authority, and effected his purpose in every detail.
The Indian Continent was reduced to order, the irregularities in the Company's territories were gradually removed, its possessions were consolidated, and the paramount position of England was assured. The settlement which the Marquess of Hastings made has been modified, but it has never been undone; his work was thorough, far-reaching and comprehensive. Modern India is largely based upon the results which he attained. The period of his administration forms an era in the history of our advance in the East, which marks the end of a halting policy and the dawn of a new order, when Great Britain finally assumed undivided responsibility for, and supreme control over, the Empire of Continental India.
- ↑ Auber, ii. 552.
