Page:Mountstuart Elphinstone and the Making of South-western India.djvu/97

Rh to the rank of Minister. This man had first recommended himself by his readiness in farming the revenue of certain districts at a higher rate than any one else would offer, of course indemnifying himself by extortion; and he afterwards made his position secure by the boldness with which he undertook to execute the designs of his master. Elphinstone thought it best to raise no objection to the sudden elevation of Trimbakjí, apparently in the confidence that the concealed intrigues would now be brought to an open head, and thus more easily defeated. He was certainly under no illusion with regard to Trimbakjí's character.

The expected crisis was not long delayed; nor was Elphinstone wanting in the energy to deal with it. In order to settle a long-standing difference about territory, the Gáekwár of Baroda had sent an agent, named Gangadhar Shástrí, to the court of the Peshwa. The Shástrí, who was himself a Poona Bráhman, entertained not unjustifiable fears for his personal safety, and accordingly sought and obtained a safe-conduct from the British Government. After in-