Page:MKGandhi patriot.djvu/96

 CHAPTER XIII

ON THE BATTLEFIELD

In October, 1899, when the War began, the stir and excitement that pervaded all classes of colonial society, touched even the Indians, and they desired to take some part in those great events which were happening around them. It was Mr. Gandhi's hope that their action in this crisis might prove at least their loyalty to the Empire, and refute the common sneer that, "if danger threatened the Colony, the Indians would run away." It was his repeated contention, that if they were ready to assert their rights and to claim to be regarded as British subjects, they were equally ready and eager to accept the responsibilities of such a position. He accordingly counselled his people to volunteer for service in whatever capacity the Government would accept them. The proposal was taken up, and a formal offer was sent to the Government, but rejected, the Government saying that there was no need of help from the Indians.

Then Mr. Gandhi interviewed the Hon. R. Jameson, Member of the Legislative Council, to