Page:Twelve men of Bengal in the nineteenth century (1910).djvu/205

Rh considerate to all, there was never a moment's doubt that his was the directing and controlling mind. He had the whole of his vast business operations completely within his grasp, no matter being too small for his personal attention. It was only thus, as he himself was wont to say, that a great Zemindari could be worked with complete success.

In spite of his great wealth Abdul Ghani conducted his life with great simplicity. He habitually rose early, either riding out, hunting or shooting, busying himself in his garden or taking long walks in the cool morning air. On his return it was his custom to repair to his Charkhana where between 7 and 8 A.M. he took tea holding a kind of informal reception that included not only the male members of his family and his friends, but all those who wished to see him as well as those who came to partake of his charity. Many old and invalid Muhammadans, who had seen better days, were always to be found at this early morning levee which was a strangely assorted gathering where all were welcome whether in rags or gorgeously attired. It was a kind and considerate way of bestowing charity upon those who needed it, for the early morning cup of tea of the Nawab himself always meant in their case a substantial breakfast. Abdul Ghani moved freely among his guests listening to their grievances, tendering his advice and settling their disputes in truly patriarchal manner. At nine o'clock he used