Page:Twelve men of Bengal in the nineteenth century (1910).djvu/242

212 forwarding our social and moral progress, I regard it in the one case as my duty, and in the other as the expenditure of a little Capital to secure a great amount of good (as we say in the vernacular 'a little word in a big mouth'). Gentlemen, do not be offended if I say that the money which has been spent in connection with the presentation of this address might have been productive of some infinite good if wisely employed in some public works. But I will not deny that you have this day made me very happy, while you have nevertheless accorded to my services a higher merit than they deserve. May you all be spared to enjoy every honour, reward and prosperity that I sincerely wish you, and may I be spared to witness such a consummation of a life acceptable to man and pleasing in the sight of God. Again, gentlemen, I heartily thank you."

The very great popularity of the Nawab among officials and non-officials, among Hindus and Muhammadans alike was evidenced by the number of congratulatory letters that poured in upon him on the occasion of each new honour. Officials without exception placed entire confidence in him and freely consulted him upon all matters relating to Behar and the Muhammadan community. Sir Ashley Eden, as Lieutenant-Governor, honoured him on several occasions by asking his opinion and on his visit to Patna in 1880 finding that he was too ill to pay his