This little book is intended to prove the inefficiency of British Rule in India in matters on which the Life of the Nation depends. The facts and figures are taken from sources which cannot be challenged, and they reveal the tragedy which has reduced to poverty the Nation of which the wealth attracted the European merchants, who, after their sordid fights with each other to obtain the largest share of the plunder, were driven into various corners of the coveted territory, where they still remain, a negligible number, while their rivals from Great Britain established their power, and from traders blossomed into rulers. The exhausting nature of their rule is well shewn by the brutally cynical advice of Lord Salisbury to apply the lancet to parts not already bled white. The patient is now so depleted by the loss of blood, that the very life is in danger. What is to be the answer to the question: Shall India live or die? If she wins Home Rule, she will live. If the present system of Government continues she will die. The answer is for India to give. Let India speak. ANNIE BESANT |