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A NATION IN MAKING

inspired confidence. It was the charm of his personality and the influence which it broadcasted that constituted perhaps the most valuable asset of the Government.

To be popular after such a ruler was a task of some difficulty. But Lord Ronaldshay proved himself equal to it. To my surprise, soon after his arrival in Calcutta, I received a letter from Mr. Gourlay, Private Secretary, inviting me to meet Lord Ronaldshay at Government House. The usual procedure was not followed in this case. Anyone seeking an interview with the Governor has to write to the Private Secretary. In my case the interview was fixed by Mr. Gourlay on his own initiative or that of His Excellency. The message was a command, and I appeared at Government House on the day and hour fixed. I was received with kindness and courtesy, and during the whole of the interview not the slightest reference was made to my messages to the Secretary of State or Sir William Wedderburn. The conversation proceeded upon lines of general interest, affecting the present situation, and I parted, with my estimate of Lord Ronaldshay materially modified. It was the first of many interviews, and they were all as pleasant as this one.

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