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We must allow something for the partiality of a grateful minis- 

 ter, during a long period high in the favour of a sovereign who 

 truly appreciated his services: but it will be generally granted 

 that Akber is one of the finest characters recorded in history; 

 approaching, perhaps, the nearest to our own Alfred. 



" In whom the splendour of heroic war, 



" And more heroic peace, when govern'd well, 



" Combine : whose hallow'd name, the Virtues saint, 



" And his own Muses love ; the best of Kings !" Thomson. 



Akber had not the trials of Alfred; he had not been taught in 

 the school of adversity. Few reigns have been so long, fewer so 

 prosperous as Akber's; yet he always preserved a consistency of 

 character. The annual ceremony of weighing the imperial sove- 

 reign, with its consequent largesses, as also his mode of alms- 

 giving, ought not to pass unnoticed. To the poor and needy 

 Akber bestowed money and necessaries of every kind, gladdening 

 the hearts of all in public or private. Many were allowed daily, 

 monthly, or annual pensions, which they received regularly, with- 

 out any delay or deduction. Besides those establishments, the 

 sums that were daily bestowed upon particular persons, in conse- 

 quence of representations made in their favour, as well as the food 

 and necessaries constantly distributed amongst the indigent, were 

 beyond description. A treasurer always waited in his presence 

 for that purpose ; and every needy person who presented himself 

 before his majesty, had his necessities instantly relieved. 



As a means of bestowing a largess upon the indigent, the 

 emperor was weighed twice a year, various articles being put into 



