Page:University of Calcutta Convocation Addresses Vol 3 (1899-1906).djvu/15



,

The quality of diffidence is one not generally attributed to the members of the profession to which for so many years I have had the honour to belong; but I am speaking with every sincerity when I say that it is with a feeling of considerable misgiving that I rise to address you this afternoon. I have, in comparison with nearly every member of my present audience, had so limited an experience of India, and possess so slight a knowledge of the aims, the ambitions, and even the necessities of her people, and am so little versed in her educational requirements and demands, that I feel but poorly qualified to address you in the character of your Vice-Chancellor, and this feeling is the more intensified when I recall the names of the many distinguished men who, in by-gone days, have filled this chair. But, sir, be that as it may, I am satisfied that I am addressing an audience which will be sympathetic in its bearing, and lenient in its criticisms. Many of my predecessors, doubtless, have on occasions similar to the