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 CHAPTER X

Canals of Irrigation

One subject which dwelt in Thomason's thoughts was that of irrigation by canals, and in no matter was his influence more marked than in this.

It must ever be remembered that, as explained in chapter VII, he was not in command of the Public Works department, as Civil Governors of India now are, and as they naturally should be. He had no Engineer officer of rank to act as his professional adviser. Nevertheless, he played an active and personal part in these affairs, such as few Governors have ever undertaken. He had a natural bent and talent for civil engineering. If providence had not made him a Governor, he might have been a great civil engineer. Cramped and enfeebled by the then system, he had by his own skill and labour to meet the requirements of the public welfare. The manner in which he did this, under grievous disadvantage, constitutes one of his claims to honour.

First and foremost his thoughts were turned towards artificial irrigation. The terrific drought of 1836-7, mentioned in chapter VI, did not reach his