Page:Speeches And Writings MKGandhi.djvu/344

 254 EARLIER INDIAN SPEECHES

We do not know the elementary laws of cleanliness. We spit anywhere on the carriage floor, irrespective of the thought that it is often used as sleeping space. We do not trouble ourselves as to how we use it ; the result is indescribable filth in the com- partment. The so-called better class passengers over- awe their less fortunate brethren. Among them I have seen the students world also. Sometimes they be- have no better. They can speak English and they have worn Norfolk jackets and therefore claim the right to force their way in and command seating accommodation. I have turned the searchlight all over, and as you have given me the privilege of speaking to you I am laying my heart bare. Surely we must set these things right in our progress towards self-government. I now introduce you to another scene His Highness the Maharajah who presided yesterday over our deliberations spoke about the poverty of India. Other speakers laid great stress upon it But what did we witness in the great pandal in which the foundation ceremony was performed by the Viceroy. Certainly a most gorgeous show, an exhibition of jewel- lery which made a splendid feast for the eyes of the greatest jeweller who chose to come from Paris. I com- pare with the richly bedecked noblemen the millions of the poor. And I feel like saying to these noblemen, " There is no salvation for India unless you strip yourselves of this jewellery and hold it in trust for your countrymen in India." (Hear, hear and applause.) I am sure, it is not the desire of the King-Emperor or Lord Hardinge that in order to show the truest loyalty to our King-Emperor, it is necessary for us to ransack our jewellery-boxes and to appear bedecked from top to toe. I would undertake, at

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