Page:Malabari, Behramji M. - Gujarat and the Gujaratis (1882).djvu/40

24 comparatively early age. He, too, was a great Gujaráti scholar and has written several works in that vernacular, which are not only popular, but are recognised as first-rate school-books. Mr. Wells was a very zealous, active man, and known for his rough practical benevolence.

Of the European officials, the best remembered men by this generation are Mr. T. C. Fere, the collector par excellence, and Mr. H. M. Woodlark—the judge. Surat is greatly indebted to Mr. Fere for numerous practical reforms. Stern and almost overbearing in his official relations, he despised false popularity, and though sometimes carried away.by over-zeal, his honesty of purpose has never been questioned. Though smarting under some of his hasty measures, the Surtis readily acknowledge that "Fere Sáheb" has been the second founder of the city.

Mr. Woodlark is popularly known as "the Model Judge." He is no less a favourite with the official circle than with the public. He is "as good as a native, one of us," the people explain. I know of no greater compliment that could be paid to an official. And this praise is amply justified by Mr. Woodlark's love of the people, and his readiness to identify himself with every