CALCUTTA. 
^53 
ment, as the one which the Marquis Wellesley so ably conceived, 
and carried into execution a few years afterwards, when the very 
great enlargement of our Indian dominions, and their encreased 
importance to the British empire, rendered it absolutely necessary 
that some system should be adopted likely to insure the in- 
habitants of so large a portion of Asia an equitable dispensation of 
the laws. 
To effect so desirable a purpose, became a principal object with 
the Marquis Wellesley during his government of India. His pene- 
trating and expanded genius readily perceived the immense poli- 
tical importance of such a measure, and its tendency to promote 
the advantage and ultimate happiness of the individuals them- 
selves, for the regulation of whose education and conduct he was 
solicitous to provide. He saw that our Indian possessions had 
gradually arisen, from an insignificant trading settlement, to a 
mighty empire, extending over vast tracts of country, abounding 
with inhabitants, and producing yearly a revenue of sixteen 
millions ; which clearly pointed out the justice of appropriating a 
portion of this enormous sum for the benefit of the dominions 
whence it was derived. 
Without entering into the narrow spirit of mercantile calculation, 
he did not so much considerwhat the Company might feel disposed 
to afford, as what it ought to afford; and though he studiously 
endeavoured to avoid incurring all unnecessary expense in the 
accomplishment of his design, he was nevertheless desirous of 
placing it on a footing suitable to the dignity of the empire, and 
calculated to meet the exigencies of the occasion. 
In establishing the College at Fort William, the Marquis Wellesley 
