Page:Speeches And Writings MKGandhi.djvu/731

 Moplah nor has it saved Hindus from his depredation and lust, the sword has merely prevented the Moplas from overrunning the whole of Madras Presidency. It has exhibited no protective power. I am sure you will not plead incapacity. It is true that police and military are not transferred subjects, but you cannot escape moral responsibility. You are supporting the policy of Govern- ment regarding Malabar.

Nor, I hope, will you retort by blaming the Non- Co operators. They cannot admit any responsibility for the trouble at all, unless all agitation is to be held blameworthy. I admit, however, that non-co-operators were not able to reach their message to the Moplah homes. That would be reason for more, not less agitation, but I have not taken my pen to argue away tha Non-Co- operator's blame.

I ask you to consider the broad humanities of the question, compel the Government to suspend hostilities, issue promise of freedom for past depredations upon the undertaking to surrender and to permit Non Co-operators to enter Malabar to persuade Moplahs to surrender.

I know the last suggestion means giving of impor- tance to Non-Co-operators. Surely you do not doubt their number. As to their influence, if you do, you should find other means of dealing with the trouble than that of extermination. I am merely concerned with the termination of the shameful inhumanity proceeding in Malabar with both Liberals and Non-Co-operators as helpless witnesses. I have chosen to address this letter not to the Government but to you, because the Govern- ment could not have taken the inhuman course of destruction Without your mdral support. I beseech you to give heed to my ptdyei as of a dear friend,

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